International Business Development Unit (BU-DCI)

A team responsible for promoting the IRSN’s expertise and experience and implementing a wide range of services to support foreign nuclear safety authorities and TSOs in the context of tenders or bilateral contracts.

Who we are

  • A Director 
  • A Deputy director 
  • An administrative assistant 
  • An administrative and financial manager 
  • Six international development engineers 
  • Occasional student trainees in geopolitics

Jean-René Jourdain serves as Executive Director for International Business Development at the French Institute for Radiological Protection and Nuclear Safety (IRSN) since January 2021.
His main current activity consists of managing a 10-expert unit in charge of responding to international tenders and managing contracts in support of nuclear safety authorities and their TSOs, in particular in Armenia, Belarus, Morocco, Norway, the Netherlands, Turkey and Ukraine.

He joined the IRSN in May 2000 and was successively appointed as Head of the Internal Dose Assessment and Modelling Laboratory (2000-2003), Head of the Internal Dosimetry Department (2003-2008), Representative of the Director of Radiological Protection in International Partnerships (2008-2012), Deputy Director of Radiological Protection and Health (2012-2017), and Deputy Director of International Affairs (2017-2021). He previously worked as a radiopharmacist in several hospitals in Paris (1992-1999), and as a pharmacist in charge of doping issues at the French Ministry of Youth and Sports (1999-2000).

Jean-René Jourdain holds a PhD in radiobiology and radiopathology (1997), a doctorate in pharmacy (1996), and a master’s degree in health law (1994) from the University of Paris, France.

He was an expert of the European HLEG on low-dose risk research in 2008-2009 and has been involved in several past EC-funded projects, e.g. DoReMi (WP leader, FP7, 2010-2015; project on radiation-induced non-cancer effects), OPERRA (Coordinator, FP7, 2013-2017; project on integration of European research in radiation protection), CONCERT (2015-2020; European Joint Programming Instrument in Radiation Protection Research) and MEDIRAD (2017-2021; project on the medical uses of ionizing radiation).

Jean-René Jourdain’s other professional activities include chairing the Nuclear and Radiological Threats Working Group within the Global Health Security Initiative, which brings together Ministries and Secretaries of Health from G7 countries (2007-2014) and chairing a UNSCEAR expert group to assess the doses and health effects of workers involved in the Fukushima Daiichi nuclear facilities (2011-2017).

Jean-René Jourdain plays a key role in expanding IRSN's activities globally by promoting the institute's expertise and establishing international partnerships to enhance nuclear safety on an international scale.

The team of the International Business Development Unit at IRSN comprises highly qualified and dedicated professionals who play a crucial role in expanding IRSN's activities on the global stage. This dynamic team is tasked with promoting IRSN's expertise in radiation protection, nuclear safety, and nuclear risk management internationally.
The members of this team possess a deep understanding of international issues related to radiation protection and nuclear safety. They work closely with international partners, regulatory bodies, government institutions, nuclear energy sector companies, and other stakeholders to develop joint projects, training programs, advisory services, and customized solutions.

Providing support for Nuclear Safety Authorities and TSOs

  • An offer tailored to the needs of the applicant 
  • May include training and tutoring/mentoring activities, including on-the-job training 
  • May include visits to facilities and research platforms 
  • IRSN/DAEI/BU-DCI may respond alone or participate in/lead a consortium in order to benefit from maximum synergy and complementarity between its members 

Unlocking the IRSN Advantage in Nuclear Expertise

At IRSN, we pride ourselves on being your premier partner in nuclear safety and radiological protection. When comparing our services to those of our competitors, it becomes clear why we should be your top choice:

All-Inclusive Expertise
While others may offer specialized services, IRSN provides a comprehensive, one-stop solution. Our multidisciplinary approach means you get a complete package of expertise, ensuring your nuclear safety needs are fully addressed.

Global Connections
We don't just operate locally; we thrive globally. IRSN has a stellar track record of collaborating with prestigious international organizations. When you work with us, you tap into a worldwide network of knowledge and best practices, giving you a competitive edge on the global stage.

Driving Innovation
We're not content with the status quo. IRSN actively participates in cutting-edge research initiatives, staying ahead of the curve in nuclear safety and radiological protection. When you partner with us, you're aligning your organization with pioneers in the field.

Rapid Response Capability
Emergencies can strike at any time. What sets IRSN apart is our swift and efficient response to radiological crises. We're your trusted ally when it matters most, ensuring minimal downtime and maximum peace of mind.

Shaping Industry Standards
IRSN's commitment to R&D isn't just for our benefit; it's for the benefit of the entire industry. By choosing IRSN, you're contributing to the advancement of international radiological safety standards and positioning your organization as a forward-thinking leader.

In conclusion, IRSN offers a compelling package of expertise and support that surpasses our competitors. We're not just a service provider; we're your strategic partner in ensuring the highest standards of nuclear safety and radiological protection. Don't settle for less; choose IRSN for excellence in nuclear expertise.

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