Preface
Institute for Integrated Radiation and Nuclear Science, Kyoto University (hereinafter referred to as KURNS) will be 62 years old in 2025, including its predecessor, the Kyoto University Research Reactor Institute (established in 1963 and renamed to KURNS in 2018). We have two reactor facilities (Kyoto University Research Reactor（KUR）and Kyoto University Critical Assembly), various accelerator facilities, a large-scale hot laboratory and more. No other Research Institutes of Japanese National Universities has such a wide variety of facilities. KURNS is recognized and expected a unique educational and research institution both in Japan and abroad. We contribute to the education and research both Kyoto University and the fields of nuclear power and radiation throughout Japan as a Joint Usage / Research Center certified by the Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology (MEXT)of Japan.
We are at a major crossroads now. KUR, which has been playing an active role as a symbol of the institute since its establishment, will Shut down in May 2026. Honestly, the Institute’s education and research is highly dependent on KUR. Therefore, after KUR stops operating, the ways of the institute will change significantly both research and safety management terms. We have focused our discussions on the following points as the direction we should aim for after shutting down KUR. In 2025 and 2026, we will be coming to some kind of conclusion on these points.
１．Future plans in terms of research
２．Safety management system
３．Joint Usage / Research
４．Design and development of a new research reactor to be installed at the Monju site in Fukui Prefecture
５．Safe and efficient decommissioning of KUR
６．Organization suitable for carrying out 5 tasks above (including collaboration with external parties)
We are in a difficult situation with many decisions to be made but we have some good news. The research building has been completely renovated and next to it, a new research building with three floors above ground and one floor below ground was constructed. These changes have dramatically improved the educational and research environment as well as centralized the safety management system. Although the KURNS is over 60 years old in human terms, it will continue to grow and develop with renewed spirit, aiming to be a bright, fun, youthful, and attractive research center that attracts people. We would appreciate your continued understanding and support.
April 2025
Institute for Integrated Radiation and Nuclear Science, Kyoto University
Director, Professor
Ken Kurosaki
