Report on the organization of the 'Scientific Dating' workshops

This deliverable presents the outcomes of two innovative workshops organized under the ENEN2plus project to promote transdisciplinary research and responsible research and innovation (RRI) in the nuclear field. The workshops aimed to foster collaboration across scientific disciplines, enhance awareness of societal dimensions in research, and equip students and early career professionals with the skills to address complex global challenges. The first workshop was held in October 2023 at the Comics Art Center in Brussels and was organized by SCK CEN (a collaboration between the SCK CEN Academy and the unit ‘Science, Technology and Society’ which has internationally renowned expertise in social sciences and humanities (SSH), the integration of it in nuclear research and knowledge transfer, and as such is the key content contributor of the workshops). This workshop brought together 11 participants from 7 countries with diverse academic backgrounds, including nuclear engineering, natural sciences, medicine, business economics, and social sciences. The participants explored transdisciplinary approaches to nuclear-related topics such as Small Modular Reactors (SMRs), management of nuclear emergencies and post-accident recovery, and medical applications (mammography screening). In general, the event was very well received. The second workshop, which was titled ‘Spring School on Transdisciplinary Research Methods – Addressing the Energy Puzzle’, was co-organized by SCK CEN and KU Leuven’s Institute for the Future. The spring school took place on May 5-9, 2025, and focused on the energy trilemma and the possible role of SMRs in addressing this trilemma. 16 participants from 11 countries engaged in lectures, keynotes, stakeholder interactions, and groupwork centered on country case-based challenges. The program also included a visit to the science exhibition of Tabloo in Dessel, Belgium, and interactions with local nuclear stakeholders. The participants developed key transdisciplinary competencies, such as systems thinking, stakeholder engagement, and scenario planning. While the content was well-received, some participants commented on the demanding schedule and requested more breaks and preparatory guidance. Both events successfully promoted transdisciplinary collaboration and RRI among students and early career researchers. The collaboration with KU Leuven during the second workshop enhanced outreach and enabled ECTS accreditation. Participant feedback highlighted the value of interactive, real-world learning and suggested improvements for future iterations. These workshops represent a step toward embedding transdisciplinary and responsible research practices in the nuclear sector and beyond.