The European Commission recently adopted the Work Programme for the 2026 and 2027 Euratom Research and Training Programme, marking a decisive step in the development of nuclear technologies.

The programme provides complementary funding to Horizon Europe while covering a broad spectrum of nuclear research and innovation activities.

It aims to strengthen the EU’s energy independence, competitiveness and technological leadership, while advancing towards carbon neutrality by 2050.

The initiative aligns with key policy frameworks, including the Community Nuclear Illustrative Programme, the Net Zero Industry Act, the Clean Industrial Deal, and the Strategy on Small Modular Reactors presented at the Nuclear Energy Summit in Paris on March 10, 2026.

The programme will also support the development of fusion-related technologies, seen as a critical step towards the upcoming EU Fusion Strategy.

A central focus of the programme is the acceleration of fusion energy as a future power source for Europe.

The EU aims to connect its first commercial fusion power plant to the grid, delivering clean, affordable and safe energy to citizens and businesses.

To support this ambition, the programme will allocate €222 million to fusion energy development, helping move technologies from laboratories to real-world application.

This includes the creation of a new European public private partnership for fusion energy, aimed at developing commercially viable technologies and strengthening the European supply chain.

The programme will also support fusion start-ups through European Innovation Council instruments, encouraging growth and attracting private investment.

In addition, it prioritises fundamental fusion research and skills development, alongside the joint use of research facilities.

Alongside fusion, the programme allocates €108 million to nuclear fission research, focusing on safety, waste management and radiation protection.

Research efforts will also address the long-term operation of existing nuclear power plants, as well as the development of small modular reactors, advanced reactors and nuclear fuels.

The programme further includes funding for advancements in nuclear medicine, aiming to strengthen the EU’s autonomy in isotope supply for new therapies.

Efforts will also be made to attract nuclear talent from within and beyond the EU, including through Marie Sklodowska Curie grants.

The initiative will provide open access to more than 230 nuclear research facilities across the EU, enhancing collaboration and innovation.

It will also support the integration of Ukrainian nuclear researchers into the European Research Area, reinforcing international cooperation.

The Euratom Research and Training Programme serves as the EU’s flagship initiative for nuclear research and education, focusing on fusion, safety, radiation protection and waste management.

It operates alongside Horizon Europe, contributing to broader EU objectives on energy security and technological leadership.

Under the Euratom Treaty, the programme is established for five-year cycles, with the previous cycle running from 2021 to 2025 and extended by two years in 2025.

The 2026 to 2027 programme is aligned with the EU’s long-term budget framework for 2021 to 2027.