Vietnam Atomic Energy Institute: Half a Century of Pioneering and a Vision for the Future

VINATOM President Tran Chi Thanh addresses the 50th anniversary ceremony.

The event marked a significant milestone in the Institute’s five-decade journey of development and its enduring contributions to Vietnam’s atomic energy sector. It also honored generations of scientists, researchers, and staff whose dedication has laid the foundation for the country's peaceful nuclear science and technology development, while reaffirming VINATOM’s aspiration to advance further in a new era of innovation and sustainable growth.

A 50-Year Journey of Innovation and National Contribution

Vietnam's atomic energy sector has evolved alongside the country's modernization and international integration. Established in 1976 as the successor to the Dalat Nuclear Research Institute, the Vietnam Atomic Energy Institute (VINATOM) was founded to advance nuclear science and technology for peaceful purposes and to support the nation's socio-economic development.

Over the past five decades, VINATOM has grown into Vietnam's leading institution for nuclear research, technology development, and applications. Despite early challenges in infrastructure and human resources, the Institute has built a strong research and innovation system, earning recognition both nationally and internationally.

Today, VINATOM continues to play a vital role in advancing nuclear technologies for healthcare, agriculture, industry, environmental protection, and other socio-economic sectors, reinforcing its position as a key driver of Vietnam's scientific and technological development.

Prof. Phan Viet Cuong, Vice President of VINATOM and Chair of the 50th Anniversary Organizing Committee, addresses the ceremony.

Landmark Achievements

One of VINATOM's most significant milestones was the restoration, upgrade, and successful operation of the Dalat Nuclear Research Reactor in 1984. Over the past four decades, the reactor has served as Vietnam's leading nuclear research facility, supporting scientific research, human resource development, neutron activation analysis, materials studies, and the production of radioisotopes for medical diagnosis and cancer treatment.

Building on this foundation, VINATOM has developed a comprehensive research and innovation network covering nuclear physics, reactor technology, radiation technology, radioisotope applications, nuclear safety, materials science, and environmental studies. Its research has delivered practical benefits across healthcare, agriculture, industry, environmental protection, and natural resource management.

In healthcare, the Institute has successfully developed more than 30 radioisotopes and radiopharmaceuticals, supplying hospitals nationwide for nuclear medicine and cancer treatment. During the COVID-19 pandemic, VINATOM increased reactor operations to meet up to 100% of domestic demand for key medical isotopes, helping ensure uninterrupted patient care.

VINATOM has also made notable contributions to high-tech agriculture through radiation-induced crop breeding, while its industrial applications—including non-destructive testing, radiotracer techniques, and the VINAGA1 industrial irradiation system—have supported manufacturing, medical sterilization, and food irradiation. The Institute also operates Vietnam's national environmental radiation monitoring and early warning network, strengthening the country's nuclear and radiation safety capabilities.

Beyond research, VINATOM plays a leading role in developing Vietnam's nuclear workforce, maintaining nearly 100 ISI-indexed scientific publications annually, expanding international cooperation with the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) and global partners, and providing scientific and technical expertise for the country's long-term nuclear energy development.

Minister of Science and Technology Vu Hai Quan presents a commemorative gift to the Vietnam Atomic Energy Institute (VINATOM) on the occasion of its 50th anniversary.

A New Chapter of Growth

VINATOM's 50th anniversary comes at a pivotal moment as Vietnam moves forward with preparations to revive its nuclear power program. In line with the Government's strategic direction, the Institute is restructuring into the National Atomic Energy Institute, a transformation designed to strengthen its capacity to undertake national strategic science and technology missions.

Minister of Science and Technology Vu Hai Quan presents a token of appreciation to Najat Mokhtar, Deputy Director General of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA).

Looking ahead, VINATOM will focus on mastering advanced nuclear technologies, including small modular reactors (SMRs); expanding research on rare earths, radioactive minerals, and other strategic materials; advancing nuclear applications in healthcare, industry, agriculture, environmental protection, and radiation safety; accelerating the development of the National Center for Nuclear Science and Technology; and strengthening high-quality human resources, innovation, and international cooperation.

Building on five decades of achievement, VINATOM aims to further reinforce its role as Vietnam's leading institution for the peaceful development and application of nuclear science and technology, contributing to sustainable development, energy security, and the country's growing scientific and technological capabilities.

Honoring the pioneers who laid the foundation for and guided the development of VINATOM.

Honoring the Pioneers of Vietnam's Atomic Energy Development

As part of its 50th anniversary celebrations, VINATOM paid tribute to generations of distinguished leaders and scientists whose vision, dedication, and outstanding contributions laid the foundation for Vietnam's atomic energy sector and shaped the Institute's development over the past five decades.

The commemorative ceremony recognized five eminent scientists for their lasting contributions to nuclear research, technology development, human resource training, international cooperation, and the advancement of Vietnam's peaceful nuclear program:

• Prof. Pham Duy Hien – Former Vice President of VINATOM and former Director of the Dalat Nuclear Research Institute.

• Prof. Tran Huu Phat – Former President of VINATOM.

• Dr. Le Van Hong – Former Vice President of VINATOM.

• Prof. Dao Tien Khoa – Distinguished nuclear physicist and researcher.

• Assoc. Prof. Nguyen Nhi Dien – Former Vice President of VINATOM and former Director of the Dalat Nuclear Research Institute.

The tribute reflected VINATOM's deep appreciation for the pioneering scientists whose achievements have shaped Vietnam's nuclear science and technology capabilities, while inspiring future generations to continue advancing the peaceful development of atomic energy for national sustainable development./.