NRF-iThemba LABS at the frontier of nuclear science

NRF-iThemba LABS’ Deputy Managing Director for Research, Dr Rudolph Nchodu, participated in the 63^rd  Session of the Programme Advisory Committee for Nuclear Physics (PAC YF), hosted by the Joint Institute for Nuclear Research (JINR) in Dubna, Russia, on 18–19 June 2026. His attendance underscores iThemba LABS’ active engagement in high-level international scientific collaboration.

JINR is a long-established international intergovernmental organisation for nuclear research with member states from across the globe. Its Programme Advisory Committee for Nuclear Physics oversees the scientific direction and progress of major research projects at the institute, convening twice a year to review experiments, infrastructure developments, and future programmes.

Key Highlights from the 63rd Session

The session’s centrepiece was a progress report on one of the most ambitious experiments in contemporary nuclear physics: the synthesis of element 119 — a new, as-yet-undiscovered element on the periodic table. The experiment is being conducted at JINR’s Superheavy Element Factory, using the DC-280 accelerator to collide titanium-50 nuclei with a berkelium-249 target. Success would extend the periodic table beyond its current boundary and mark a landmark achievement for the global nuclear physics community.

The session also covered significant infrastructure developments, including the recommissioning of the IBR-2 pulsed reactor, which returned to full operation in early 2025 after an extended maintenance period, and is now supporting approximately 300 new researchers through its international user programme. Plans for a next-generation neutron source, the IBR-4, were also presented. In addition, the committee reviewed the successful modernisation of the EG-5 electrostatic accelerator, with proposals to extend the project through to 2027.

The 64^th PAC Session is scheduled for the winter of 2027. NRF-iThemba LABS remains committed to deepening its ties with JINR and other international partners as part of its broader research strategy.