Journal Article

GSI-2026-00124

http://join2-wiki.gsi.de/foswiki/pub/Main/Artwork/join2_logo100x88.png A response to the Vancouver call for action: addressing the needs of early career scientists in radiation protection

Degenhardt, Ä. L. ; Kunert, P. ; Herzner, V. ; Gill, S. ; Love, N. ; Abuhamed, J. ; Stendardo, G. ; Sennhenn, K. L.GSI* ; John, W. A. ; Subedi, P. (Corresponding author)

2025
Springer New York, NY

Please use a persistent id in citations: doi:10.1007/s00411-025-01145-z  doi:10.15120/GSI-2026-00124

Abstract: Early career researchers, professionals, and scientists (ECRs) are essential to the future of radiation protection, a field that increasingly relies on interdisciplinary collaboration and innovation. In line with the principles outlined in the Vancouver Call for Action for Radiation Protection Researchers, an ICRP (International Commission on Radiological Protection) initiative, this article explores the current landscape for ECRs through the lens of survey data, initiative outcomes, and the establishment of the Early Career in Radiation Protection Network (ECRad). Drawing on a Europe-wide survey of 47 ECRs, the study identifies key areas of concern: while there is strong intrinsic motivation to remain in the field, perceived feasibility is often hampered by job insecurity, fragmented institutional support, and lack of structured mentorship. Although most respondents participate in existing networks such as ICRP, EURADOS, and IRPA, many reported unmet expectations, particularly in mentorship, sustained peer interaction, and accessible professional development. The formation of the RadoNorm Early Career Researcher Council (ECRC) responded directly to these gaps, demonstrating that self-organized, ECR-led initiatives can significantly enhance a sense of belonging and interdisciplinary engagement. However, structural barriers - such as time, funding, and short-term project support - persist, echoing the Vancouver Call for Action's call for improved education, training, and retention. In conclusion, while considerable progress has been made in addressing the needs of ECRs in radiation protection, gaps that threaten the long-term vitality of the field remain. The findings affirm the urgency of coordinated action among institutions, networks, and funding bodies to invest in and empower the next generation of radiation protection professionals.

Keyword(s): Radiation Protection (MeSH) ; Humans (MeSH) ; Research Personnel (MeSH) ; Mentors (MeSH) ; ECRad ; Early career scientists ; Mentorship and networking ; Radiation protection ; RadoNorm ; Vancouver call for action

Note: This article is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License,

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Contributing Institute(s):

1. Biophysik (BIO)

Research Program(s):

1. 633 - Life Sciences – Building Blocks of Life: Structure and Function (POF4-633) (POF4-633)
2. HGS-HIRe - HGS-HIRe for FAIR (HGS-HIRe) (HGS-HIRe)
3. RadoNorm - Towards effective radiation protection based on improved scientific evidence and social considerations - focus on radon and NORM (900009) (900009)

Experiment(s):

1. no experiment theory work (theory)

Appears in the scientific report 2025

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Database coverage:
; ; ; BIOSIS Previews ; Biological Abstracts ; Clarivate Analytics Master Journal List ; Current Contents - Life Sciences ; DEAL Springer ; Essential Science Indicators ; IF < 5 ; JCR ; SCOPUS ; Science Citation Index Expanded ; Web of Science Core Collection

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