In early 2026, a professional course will begin, dedicated to the principles of nuclear safety, the modelling of reactor transients, and approaches to uncertainty and sensitivity analysis of simulation results. The programme provides a comprehensive understanding of reactor system behaviour in the context of safety and introduces modern methods for assessing the reliability of simulations.
The course is delivered in a hybrid flipped-classroom format. This means that participants complete the theoretical part independently online, working through video lectures, materials and quizzes, totalling around 40 hours. After that, they join a five-day interactive session of approximately 40 hours, held both onsite at Chalmers University of Technology in Gothenburg and remotely. Research in engineering education shows that this format increases engagement, improves learning outcomes and enhances interaction with instructors.
Upon completion, participants will understand the fundamentals of nuclear safety assessment and the role of regulations, will be able to perform simulations of key safety scenarios using state-of-the-art system analysis codes, and will gain the skills to conduct uncertainty and sensitivity analyses of simulation results.
The course is intended for Master’s students, PhD candidates, researchers and professionals in nuclear engineering, reactor physics and nuclear safety.
To successfully pass the course, participants must score at least 50 out of 100 points. Both the preparatory work and the activities during the interactive sessions are graded. Participants will receive a certificate describing the course content, total workload and the awarded 3 ECTS credits.
Learners are granted four months of access to the learning platform, which hosts all course materials. During the preparatory phase, they have access to customised handbooks, video lectures and quizzes, and during the interactive phase — to practical exercises, expert support and opportunities for professional exchange.
The course is taught by Prof. Rafael Macián-Juan (Technical University of Munich) and Assoc. Prof. Paolo Vinai (Chalmers University of Technology).
Participation fees:
• Professionals (developed countries): 1875 EUR
• Professionals (emerging countries): 300 EUR
• Students (developed countries): 100 EUR
• Students (emerging countries): 50 EUR
The course platform opens on 23 January 2026 for the online self-paced preparatory work, and the interactive sessions will take place from 23 to 27 February 2026 at Chalmers University of Technology in Gothenburg (Sweden) and online.
Registration is open from 24 November to 14 December 2025 at: great-pioneer.eu/registration
Participants attending onsite are responsible for covering their own travel, accommodation and meal expenses. Information on available financial support for onsite participation is provided in the registration form.
