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Nuclear at McMaster

Outreach & Engagement

Demystifying nuclear and radiation sciences while fostering an inclusive and accessible nuclear experience.

We connect with local and global communities through events and programming oriented to the public, advancing understanding of nuclear and radiation sciences and increasing awareness.

Photo by Ron Scheffler for McMaster University.

Fostering Public Discussion

In collaboration with the Canadian Nuclear Society — Golden Horseshoe Branch, we host the Nuclear Resonance lecture series.  

Lectures are scheduled for the last Tuesday of most months. They are completely free and open to the public.

Through this collaboration, we aim to spotlight and foster dialogue around exciting topics in nuclear science, technology, and engineering. 

Ms. Rumina Velshi, Former President and CEO, Canadian Nuclear Safety Commission

Facility Tours

Over 4000 visitors tour our facilities annually, of which 65% are high school students. 

Our visitors include:

  • Members of the public — from youth to seniors, and everyone in between
  • Industry professionals
  • Government officials 
  • Academics and experts
Most of the tour guides at the McMaster Nuclear Reactor are students – and many are young women pursuing education and careers in nuclear science. On International Women’s Day, we celebrate all they do to give visitors a memorable behind-the-scenes look at this world-class research facility.

Tour Guide/Nuclear Ambassador Program

Undergraduate and graduate students are trained to be nuclear reactor tour guides, leading tours for thousands of visitors yearly. They not only support the mission of demystifying and advancing understanding of nuclear science but act as ambassadors and representatives of McMaster Nuclear, demonstrating remarkable leadership and excellence. More than 70% of our tour guides are women in science and engineering programs.