Bridging the gap: Science, regulation and diplomacy in nuclear policy

Join leading experts for a thought-provoking panel on the future of UK nuclear policy in the era of climate urgency and energy security. This event will explore how science, regulation, and diplomacy shape both national and global nuclear governance. From the UK’s evolving regulatory landscape to international safety standards, from science diplomacy to the innovations transforming the sector, our panel will unpack the forces driving change — and the challenges ahead.

The seminar will take place on Wednesday 24 September, 14:00 – 15:00 in the Henry Royce Hub (room 1.015).

For those attending in person there will be tea, coffee and cakes available from 13:30.

Speakers

• Professor Zara Hodgson is the Director of Dalton Nuclear Institute and Professor of Nuclear Engineering – Zara has a broad background in nuclear R&D, through the Nuclear Innovation and Research Office and the National Nuclear Laboratory, ranging from spent fuel management to nuclear power systems for space exploration. Prior to joining The University of Manchester, Zara was seconded to the Nuclear Innovation & Research Office (NIRO) as a Senior Technical Advisor from the National Nuclear Laboratory (NNL). From 2020 to 2024, and via NIRO, Zara was embedded full-time in the Nuclear Cluster at the Department for Energy Security & Net Zero (DESNZ); she led on nuclear fuel supply and capability policy and established a team of policy officials, including sector secondees, to deliver policy and associated programmes in the areas of nuclear fuel supply, advanced nuclear technology capability and innovation.

• Craig Jantzen is a UK Diplomat specialising in Science and Technology across Northern Europe and is currently the First Secretary and Regional Manager for the UK’s Science and Innovation Network (SIN) covering the Nordic and Baltic countries. Originally trained and working in nuclear science, Craig made a significant career shift into diplomacy, bringing a strong technical foundation to the UK’s international engagement on science and innovation. He has previously held a range of senior roles across government and international organisations, with a particular focus on energy, climate change, science policy, and nuclear strategy. His work has spanned the promotion of international collaboration in research and innovation, the development of strategic policy on global challenges, and the negotiation of complex diplomatic and technical issues. In his current role, Craig leads UK engagement with partners across Northern Europe to strengthen bilateral and regional cooperation in science and technology, supporting delivery of the UK’s International Technology Strategy and advancing shared priorities in areas such as clean energy, digital innovation, and emerging technologies. He has represented the UK in a variety of international fora, including high-level engagements with research councils, ministries, and multilateral science bodies.

This event is part of our Expert Insights Series…

In celebration of the Dalton Nuclear Institute’s 20th anniversary, this year we are launching our Expert Insights Series. This series brings together leaders from the Dalton Community and our partners to share their views and experiences across the breadth of nuclear with a wider audience. This will provide an exciting opportunity to engage with subject matter experts and broaden your nuclear knowledge.

The series is hosted by the Dalton Champions – members of Manchester’s nuclear research community who work to enhance the network. Champions are based throughout the University, representing the many departments in which nuclear related research takes place.

Book your place today.

About us

The University of Manchester’s Dalton Nuclear Institute brings together the University’s community of over 170 PhD researchers, postdocs and fellows, and 120 academics. Spread across three faculties, their work covers the full nuclear fuel cycle, fusion, health and social research. Together this community forms the most advanced nuclear research capability in the UK.