Splitting Atoms: The Power of Nuclear Innovation

General description

Hello adventurer, I’m Dr. Atom (just call me Georgy) your guide on an electrifying journey through the heart of Nuclearia!

Pack your Geiger counter, because we’re heading on a daring mission to restore balance to the world of energy. The peace of Nuclearia has been shattered by a rogue scientist known only as "The Fusionist." Once a brilliant physicist, The Fusionist went rogue after an experiment went haywire, leaving them with an unhealthy obsession for hoarding energy. Now, they’ve built a mega-reactor in the hidden depths of our beloved Hungary, sucking energy from every possible plant in sight!

The worst part? They’ve hacked into Paks’ control systems, rerouting power to fuel their massive secret lair (and their very unnecessary laser disco ball). If we don’t stop them, the world will face total energy collapse!

Luckily, we have a chance to stop this madness. Your task, should you accept it, is to explore the secrets of nuclear energy, learn how to run a power plant safely, and uncover The Fusionist’s lair. Along the way, we’ll rebuild energy systems across Nuclearia to restore balance—and maybe even find time to enjoy some Hungarian goulash and a shot of pálinka.

Are you ready to join our brave team of energy adventurers? Don’t worry, we’ve got all the essentials covered: cozy hostels, hearty meals, and top-tier professors who will share their wisdom about reactors, safety, and sustainability. Together, we’ll learn how to produce energy safely and greenly, and maybe even have a few laughs along the way.

Let’s meet in Budapest, where you’ll explore the city like a local, enjoy breathtaking views of the Danube, and connect with amazing people from all over Europe.

Show us your motivation and curiosity, and join us on this thrilling 8-day adventure. I promise you won’t just learn—you’ll have a blast doing it!

Academic information

Fields of activity:

Applied Sciences , Environmental Engineering , Industrial Engineering , Mechanical Engineering , Physics/Physics Engineering , Power Engineering

Content and topics:

 The fundamentals of nuclear fission: from splitting atoms to producing energy.  Key components of nuclear reactors: control rods, cooling systems, and containment structures.  Safety protocols and risk management in nuclear power plants.  Challenges and innovations in nuclear waste management and disposal.  Emerging reactor technologies: Small Modular Reactors (SMRs) and Generation IV designs.  The role of nuclear energy in combating climate change and achieving sustainability goals.  Case studies on nuclear energy in Hungary, focusing on the Paks Nuclear Power Plant.  Hands-on experiments and simulations at the BME Student Nuclear Reactor.  Public perception, societal acceptance, and political challenges in the adoption of nuclear energy.  Future trends in the nuclear energy sector, including technological advancements and global policies.

Learning goals and objectives:

 Understand the fundamental principles of nuclear energy, including fission physics, reactor design, and thermal-hydraulics.  Learn about nuclear safety systems, risk mitigation, and best practices for safe energy production.  Explore the challenges and solutions in nuclear waste management and environmental sustainability.  Gain insights into cutting-edge nuclear technologies, including Small Modular Reactors and Generation IV reactors.  Analyze the role of nuclear energy in achieving global sustainability and energy security.  Participate in experiments at the Paks Nuclear Power Plant and BME Student Nuclear Reactor to apply theoretical knowledge.

Examination type:

Presentation, case study

ECTS credits issued:

0.5

Information for applicants

Selection criteria:

Based on motivational letter, interest in the topic and answers to our questions.

Practical arrangements

All of the following are covered by the event fee:

Lodging:

Youth hostel, dormitories

Meals:

Three meals per day, at least one of them hot

Transportation:

Public transportation, cars, walking (all provided by organizers)