Over 50 postgraduate students from nuclear and particle physics came together in January for the NUPP Postgraduate Summer School, which returned to the AIP events schedule for the first time in two decades. Hosted at the UNSW Kensington campus, with thanks to the UNSW Nuclear Innovation Centre as Platinum Sponsor. Students attended a week‑long program of lectures and workshops delivered by Australian experts across topics in theory, experiment, technology and simulations.

As part of the program, participants also travelled to ANSTO for an immersive full‑day excursion that showcased some of Australia’s world-class nuclear technology. Guided by the ANSTO Discovery Centre team, students toured major facilities including the OPAL reactor, Mo-99 Manufacturing Facility, Neutron Scattering Hall and Centre for Accelerator Science. The visit offered a rare behind‑the‑scenes look at how large‑scale nuclear capabilities support research, medicine and industry nationwide.

Beyond the classroom, the summer school focused on fostering a strong sense of community. Students networked with peers from institutions across the country, exchanged research ideas, and met with early career researchers and established leaders in the field. Social events, including a welcome reception and a student‑led poster session, created an inclusive environment that encouraged collaboration and future research partnerships.

The successful return of the NUPP Postgraduate Summer School highlights the growing momentum of Australia’s nuclear and particle physics community and its commitment to supporting the next generation of researchers.

Image credit: Georgia Barrington-Smith, Australian Institute of Nuclear Science and Engineering