The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) today opened the doors to its newly created Visitors Centre located in its laboratory facility in Seibersdorf, Austria, a first-of-its-kind space where visitors can experience the Agency's mission and discover how nuclear science and technology is addressing global challenges.
At the inauguration ceremony held today in the presence of IAEA Member State Ambassadors and representatives from Austrian academia, IAEA Director General Rafael Mariano Grossi and Ambassador of Austria to the United Nations in Vienna Gabriela Sellner, officially unveiled the centre.
"This centre brings the Agency's mission of 'Atoms for Peace and Development' to life for the public," said Director General Grossi. "This new milestone for the IAEA highlights how nuclear technology drives progress in energy, medicine, food security, and industry, as well as the Agency's role in reducing the risk of nuclear weapons proliferation."
Located less than an hour's drive from Vienna, the IAEA Visitor Centre offers an immersive experience that highlights the Agency's scientific and technical mandate, exploring the application of nuclear for health, food and agriculture, water, ocean protection, cultural heritage, energy and industry.
The centre features 33 interactive exhibits with physical and digital displays that highlight the pioneering scientific work carried out at the IAEA's laboratories in Seibersdorf, Vienna, and in Monaco. First opened in 1962 in Seibersdorf, just five years after the IAEA's founding, the IAEA research laboratories are unique within the United Nations system and include five joint Laboratories supporting the work of FAO-IAEA Joint Centre. They serve as hubs for applied research and development, technical and analytical services, capacity-building and the advancement of innovative nuclear technologies.
"This new state-of-the-art Visitor Centre will bring the IAEA's work to life," Ambassador Sellner underlined today, during the opening event. "It shows how nuclear science helps tackle global challenges - from health to food and agriculture, to protecting our oceans and water. It also reflects the IAEA's commitment to sharing knowledge and engaging with the public on the peaceful uses of nuclear science. Austria is proud to host the IAEA and its Laboratories."
Touring the centre for the first time, the Director General described it as a dynamic and accessible experience of the IAEA's mission for a wide range of visitors, from researchers and scientists to high school and university students with a keen interest in science and global cooperation.
"Today is more than the inauguration of a facility - it is the beginning of a new chapter in science outreach and education," Director General Grossi added.
The centre was funded by the United States, and during today's inauguration ceremony, Director General Grossi emphasized that it stands as a testament to international partnership and collaboration. Lucy Chang, Counsellor at the Permanent Mission of the United States, and Marlene Zeidler-Beck, Member of the Landtag of Lower Austria, also spoke at the opening. More details, including registration information, are available on the IAEA Visitor Centre website.
Guided tours can extend beyond the centre itself. Depending on availability, groups may also visit the laboratories on site that focus on plant breeding, food safety, pest control, dosimetry, safeguards, nuclear security and more.
"Whether you're a student, researcher, journalist, or someone interested in partnering with the IAEA, I invite you to explore and be inspired by the transformative power of science. Through the Agency's global impact, we show how nuclear innovations are improving lives across every continent."
B-roll of today's event and footage of all speakers remarks will be available here.
