The new Euratom Programme for 2026–2027 has been published

The European Commission has published the new Euratom Research and Training Programme for 2026–2027 — a key instrument supporting research and innovation in the nuclear field, complementing Horizon Europe.

The Euratom Programme is implemented under the same participation and funding rules as Horizon Europe and aims to advance nuclear science, technologies, and skills development. It operates in five-year cycles, with an additional two-year extension to align with the EU’s Multiannual Financial Framework.

Budget and Funding Structure

The total budget for 2026–2027 amounts to €330 million, including €222 million allocated to indirect actions in fusion research and development, and €108 million dedicated to nuclear fission, safety, and radiation protection.

The programme supports both direct actions — research activities carried out by the European Commission’s Joint Research Centre — and indirect actions, which are international collaborative projects implemented by multi-partner consortia and coordinated by the Directorate-General for Research and Innovation of the European Commission.

Main Objectives

The Euratom Programme for 2026–2027 aims to foster the development of fusion energy as a future source of electricity generation, enhance nuclear safety, security, safeguards, radiation protection, waste management and decommissioning, further develop expertise and competences in the nuclear field within the EU, and support EU policies focused on the continuous improvement of nuclear safety standards.

Fusion Energy: A New Focus on Industry

One of the programme’s key priorities remains the development of fusion energy — a technology with the potential to provide safe, large-scale, low-carbon electricity production.

Europe maintains a leading position in this field, notably through its involvement in the international ITER project. At the same time, the new programme introduces a shift in focus from purely scientific research towards stronger industrial engagement.

In particular, it foresees the launch of a new European public-private partnership (PPP) in fusion energy, supports the development of innovative startups and small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), and includes participation in the European Innovation Council (EIC) initiatives to scale up technologies.

Nuclear Fission, Safety and Radiation Protection

In the area of nuclear fission, the programme focuses on ensuring the highest standards of safety and reliability. Key areas include the safe long-term operation of existing nuclear power plants, the development of Small Modular Reactors (SMRs) and advanced reactor technologies, the management of spent fuel and radioactive waste, and the decommissioning of nuclear facilities.

The programme also strengthens European partnerships, including EURAD (waste management), CONNECT-NM (nuclear materials), and PIANOFORTE (radiation protection).

Special attention is given to the non-power applications of ionising radiation, particularly ensuring a secure supply of medical radioisotopes used in cancer treatment.

Education, Skills and Support for Ukraine

The Euratom Programme places strong emphasis on human capital development by supporting researchers’ mobility through the Marie Skłodowska-Curie Actions (MSCA), improving access to research infrastructures, and promoting skills development initiatives, notably through the European Nuclear Skills Academy.

Importantly, the programme also supports the integration of Ukrainian nuclear research into the European Research Area, opening new opportunities for Ukrainian researchers and organisations.

Participation Opportunities

All funding opportunities, participation conditions, and open calls are available on the European Commission’s Funding and Tenders Portal.