Kristian Vigenin is a Member of the European Parliament from Bulgaria and Head of the Bulgarian Delegation within the Progressive Alliance of Socialists and Democrats (S&D). He is a full member of the Committee on the Environment, Climate and Food Safety (ENVI) and the Committee on Civil Liberties, Justice and Home Affairs (LIBE). He also serves as a substitute member of the Subcommittee on Security and Defence (SEDE), the Subcommittee on Public Health (SANT), and the Committee on Constitutional Affairs (AFCO), contributing to key legislative efforts on EU security, sustainability, resilience, public health, and democratic governance. Mr. Vigenin brings a strong background in foreign policy, having served as Bulgaria's Minister of Foreign Affairs from 2013 to 2014, where he led strategic EU and regional diplomatic initiatives. From 2017 to 2024, he was Vice-President of the National Assembly of Bulgaria and Chair of the Committee on European Affairs and Oversight of EU Funds.

As Director of the Nuclear Safety Department at the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development, Balthasar Lindauer provides strategic and operational leadership in the management of the EBRD’s nuclear safety projects and international multilateral donor Funds. The Funds were established to finance projects aimed at improving safety in nuclear facilities, assisting with the safe and secure decommissioning of nuclear power plants, providing facilities for the management of radioactive waste as well as the remediation of nuclear legacy sites in Eastern Europe and countries of the former Soviet Union. Prior to joining the EBRD, Balthasar has held a number of management positions and was in charge of international nuclear safety co-operation at the German Ministry of Environment and worked for a German technical safety organisation. He studied in Paris and Berlin and graduated from Freie Universitaet Berlin.

Jeffrey Donovan is a global leader in advancing public acceptance and social license for nuclear power — the essential foundation for its present and future. Since 2019, he has headed Communications, Outreach and Stakeholder Engagement for the IAEA Department of Nuclear Energy, working with governments, industry, media and civil society to support efforts to develop and deploy safe and secure nuclear technology and to reframe it as clean, reliable, and sustainable — the backbone of an affordable system for energy abundance. A former international journalist, Donovan brings a unique global perspective to storytelling and engagement. Originally from California, he holds degrees in History (UC Santa Cruz) and Global Diplomacy (SOAS, University of London) and speaks English, Italian, Spanish, and Czech.

Leo is Senior Head of Bespoke and New Schemes in Low Carbon Contracts Company (LCCC), responsible for the contract management of the nuclear CfDs and the offering of advisory services to the UK Government on the formulation of business models and the respective contracts for the support of CCUS and H2 deployment. He has been in LCCC for more than10 years, holding an excellent understanding of the CfDs, valuable insights on how the CfD concept can be expanded to new areas of application and has been leading his team offering excellent services across multiple stakeholders.

· Coordination of CNCAN’s Emergency Operations Centre and radiological monitoring functions

· Development and review of national EPR arrangements and monitoring guidelines

· Oversight of regulatory assessments of licensee emergency plans and radiological monitoring programs

· Use and integration of technical tools for consequence assessment and decision support

· Leadership in public information strategy and inter-agency coordination during emergencies

· Representation of Romania in international conventions and technical meetings (Early Notification, Assistance Convention)

Visionary executive leader with extensive experience in managing complex, high-value industrial and energy projects, including nuclear power programs. Recognized for strategic thinking, strong leadership, and ability to build and lead high-performing, cross-functional teams across global organizations. Demonstrated excellence in implementing integrated quality management systems (ISO9001, ISO19443, ISO 14001, ISO45001, NQA-1, ASME, IAEA GSR) and driving operational excellence across the value chain — from engineering and procurement through execution and commissioning. Successfully led major energy infrastructure projects with a cumulative value exceeding 1.5 billion PLN (GRID business). Proven track record in creating new organizational capabilities — including establishing the Global Order Fulfilment Department at GE Power — and driving key KPIs (e.g., On-Time Delivery improved from 15% to 90% in three years). Trusted to deliver results in high-stakes, safety-critical, and regulated environments. Since 2025, I have been lecturing on "Process Management" as part of the "MBA in Decarbonization" program at Wrocław Business Academy. This role allows me to share practical experience in quality systems, operational excellence, and energy sector management with postgraduate students.

A manager with many years of experience working in large capital groups, government, and local administration. He was involved in investment and legal consulting. He sorted out capital group structures, optimized costs, and maximized company benefits. Recently President of PGE Polish Energy Group 2020-2024, the largest producer and distibutor of  energy in Poland.The key directions of the PGE Group's development will be offshore and onshore wind energy,energy storage, photovoltaics, grid infrastructure, low-emission heating, energy services and Nuclear Power Plant. In 2018-2024 Chairman of the Supervisory Board PGZ Polish Armament Group, is a capital group concentrating several dozen production plants, service facilities and research centres crucial for the Polish defence industry. PGZ manufactures innovative systems and solutions used by the Armed Forces of the Republic of Poland and allied formations. Currently Member of Council for Strategic Development Projects under the President of the Republic of Poland and allied formations.

Gen. Univ. Priv. Prof. Doc. JUDr. Mgr., Ph.D., Dr. h. c., OBE, OCM, REOT

Member of the board of the VIA Foundation, member of the board of PRO BOHEMIAE (2000–2007), member of the Czech Society for Political Science at the Czech Academy of Sciences, count of the Order of Blaník Knights (member since 2001), regent and count of the Order of St. Constantine the Great (member since 2004), highest regent and count of the Royal Knightly Order of Točenice (member since 2022), member of the Union of Officers and Non-Commissioned Officers of the Army of the Czech Republic (since 2023), listed in the encyclopedia WHO IS WHO – Personalities of Contemporary Czech Society, 5,000 biographies (2002, 2005), listed in the Oxford Encyclopedia (2017), listed in the BRITISHPEDIA encyclopedia (2021, 2023, 2024)

LS: English, Russian, Latin

Donald R. Hoffman has a Bachelor of Science degree in Nuclear Engineering and Science, and a Master of Science Degree in Management and Leadership. He served in the US Nuclear Submarine Navy as a Senior Reactor Operator and Engineering Officer from 1970 – 1979. He was the Manager in the Nuclear Regulatory Commission's Licensing and Technical Specifications Division reviewing License Applications and Technical Specifications for the 26 nuclear plants that were licensed in the US post TMI from 1980 – 1985. Donald founded EXCEL SERVICES CORPORATION in 1985, a global nuclear engineering consulting company. In the thirty-nine years since the formation of the company, EXCEL has become globally recognized as the premier supplier of licensing, regulatory, engineering, technical, operations and critical infrastructure services to nuclear facilities worldwide. He has pioneered multiple initiatives that have led the enhanced safety and improved performance of reactor plants globally. He has served as Executive Advisor to Government and Industry Leaders. Donald is a Past President and Fellow of the American Nuclear Society (ANS). He has served as a former and current member of the Secretary of Commerce's Civil Nuclear Trade Advisory Committee (CINTAC). He also holds and has held senior advisory positions in the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA).

International cooperation professional with over a decade of experience  in policy, program management, and strategic partnerships across Europe, Africa, and Southeast Asia. She has served in senior roles at the European Union, UNICEF, and the EU Intellectual Property Office,  where she managed EU-funded programs supporting policy dialogue, trade, and development  cooperation. Currently Executive Director of the Canadian Chamber of Commerce in Bulgaria, she  engages with governments and stakeholders to strengthen economic and institutional ties. With expertise  in EU funding instruments, donor engagement, and multilingual communication, Desislava brings a  unique perspective on global collaboration and policy innovation. In her current role, she is actively  engaged in promoting Canadian know-how across sectors. By fostering partnerships, encouraging  exchange of best practices and knowledge transfer, and creating opportunities for capacity building, she  contributes to advancing professional excellence and sustainable growth while bridging Canadian  expertise with European institutional and business environments.

Professional experience

01/2025 – today

PRS Strahlenschutz GmbH | Obermichelbach | prs-strahlenschutz.de

Radiation protection Expert, preparation of expert opinions and testing in the field of radiation protection, Design of Shielding for Accelerators, X-Ray, Design and Testing of safety systems for all kinds of machines and devices with radiation, Hospital Building

11/2012 - today

Sanmed GmbH | Obermichelbach | sanmedgmbh.de

Service provider for occupational medicine, occupational safety and radiation protection | Safety engineer, authorized signatory

·Member of the Executive Board

10/2014 - 12/2024

Testing laboratory for radiation protection Dr. Heusinger | Nuremberg | drheusinger.de Expert, preparation of expert opinions and testing in the field of radiation protection |

Education

09/2018 - 04/2020

MBA | Business Studies | FOM University of Applied Sciences Nuremberg

01/2014 - 09/2015

Safety Engineer (DGUV) | Beuth University of Applied Sciences, Berlin

09/2010 - 08/2014

Dipl.-Ingenieur (FH) | Study of Energy Technology | University of Applied Sciences Zittau

Mr Lízal graduated at the Faculty of Electrical Engineering at the Czech Technical University. He obtained a PhD in economics and serves as an associate professor in economics. In 2003–2008 he has been Director of both the Economics Institute of the Czech Academy of Sciences and CERGE, Charles University. He was a member of the National Economic Council of the Government and a member of the supervisory board of energy company ČEZ. Lubomír Lízal has been a member of the Czech National Bank Board in 2011-2017. In 2020-2021 he was CEO of Expobank CZ, where he was (among others) responsible for business. Currently he works on analysis of financing energy transition and is an associate professor at Faculty of Electrical Engineering and Czech Institute of Informatics, Robotics, and Cybernetics, both at the Czech Technical University and at The University of Finance and Administration.

Certified GARP professional with 25+ years of experience in financial risk management, out of those 15 years in the City of London. Lived, studied and worked in the U.S. and countries in which EBRD is active. Change-oriented but also risk-focused professional with experience across a variety of complex Liquidity & Capital Risk Management roles in the finance sector. Diligent risk manager with a strong track record of providing financial risk oversight (2LoD) to support organisational decision-making in a fast-paced and deadline driven environment. Excellent capacity to participate on cross-functional teams while also completing individual projects. Sustainability mindset with a strong focus on maintaining regulatory compliance. Acted as Deputy CRO and held SMF4 function responsibilities.

Bart runs Santander's Energy financing and financing advisory activity. The team of over 85 professionals is primarily focused on financing and financing advisory of Renewable Energy generation where Santander had a leading presence (#1 globally 2025 YTD) but also Hydrogen, CCS, BESS, Biogas, EfW, Smart Meters and other tangential subsectors. Prior to his current role, Bart ran Santander's Euoprean Energy business, Santander's UK and Nordics structured finance business, and Santander's European structured finance advisory practise. Bart previously worked at UBS leading their Utilities and Infrastructure Finance business, and RBS. Bart holds an MA in Physics from the University of Oxford.

Dr. Simon Podkoritnik is experienced electrical engineer specializing in high-voltage systems, transmission reliability, and electrical infrastructure development. Currently leads the Department of High Voltage and Power Plants at EIMV, actively contributing to major Slovenian energy projects, including involvement in constructing the new power plants. Also supports project planning of new NPP in Slovenia. He is chairman of the Slovenian Study Committee CIGRE SC A3 for Transmission and Distribution Equipment, and regular Slovenian representative in the International Study Committee CIGRE SC B1 for Insulated Cables. Holds years of decade of experience as an authorized inspector supervising certain maintenance activities at Krško Nuclear Power Plant. Demonstrates strong organizational capabilities, managing diverse project teams, coordinating advanced high-voltage research activities, and leading the development and implementation of innovative high-voltage cable testing systems at EIMV. Adept at interdepartmental coordination, international collaboration, and leadership of specialized technical groups, consistently ensuring effective project execution and strategic goal achievement.

Kostadin Sirleshtov is Managing Partner of CMS Sofia and Head of Energy & Climate Change for Central and Eastern Europe and for Bulgaria. Kostadin is leading the CMS nuclear initiatives in Central and Eastern Europe and in Bulgaria and is coordinating the ongoing nuclear energy assignments that the firm has across CEE. His particular area of expertise is in conventional power, nuclear, electricity, oil & gas, renewables, infrastructure, projects, PPP, public procurement, underground resources. He has worked on the largest nuclear energy projects in Bulgaria.

Maryam is a partner in our energy & infrastructure team in London. She is an energy and infrastructure specialist advising on the development, financing and regulation of energy and infrastructure projects globally, with a particular interest on the nuclear sector (both large-scale and SMRs). As a sector specialist, Maryam's broad practice sees her providing comprehensive, all-round advice on her transactions and has significant experience acting for sponsors, lenders, funds, ECAs and governments on complex, first-in-market transactions. Most recently, Maryam has been advising the UK government on the development of the Sizewell C project, as well as an SMR developer, and has advised on global nuclear projects across the value chain, from fuel fabrication, development and construction, through to decommissioning.

Mrs. Sokcic-Kostic studied Technical Physics at the University of Belgrade (Serbia) from 1977 till 1982. After her Diploma with the course specialization nucleonic she enlarged her studies to include a Master with the department of nuclear energetic (1982-1990). Afterwards Mrs. Sokcic-Kostic did a doctor's degree at the RWTH Aachen about safety reviews at the high temperature reactor and passed her graduation with distinction. Based hereupon she worked as a scientific assistant at the research centres Jülich (Institute for Security Research and Nuclear Safety) and Karlsruhe (Institute for Nuclear Safety) on the work scopes neutrons and gamma monitoring as well as waste characterization. 2001 she changed to Nukem Technologies GmbH. Mrs. Sokcic-Kostic is a Group Leader (Principal Engineer) on the field radiation monitoring systems and Lead Engineer for all international projects for waste treatment centres.

James Chamberlain and his team have operated in the nuclear supply chain for 40 years providing workforce solutions across the nuclear supply chain. This includes significant experience in Staffing, independent contractors, outsourcing, early careers, Screening and training. Rullion has extensive experience mobilising teams across sites Including Hinkley Point C and Sizewell C. James brings a wealth of experience sourcing, relocating, retraining, onboarding and supporting workforce's needs for fleet scale builds and has deep understanding of the European and North American SMR & AMR talent pools.

Presently an associate senior researcher in the Romanian Academy’s Institute for Economic Forecasting, and Executive Director of the Advisory Center for Energy and Environment, Dr.Purica was also President – State Secretary of the Romanian Agency for Nuclear Energy and Radioactive Waste and counselor of the Minister of Research, the Minister of Economy and previously the Minister of the Environment and an expert for the Parliament of Romania He participated in the elaboration of the EU accession strategy for Romania and the energy (electricity and heat) strategy (for the Ministry of Economy and Trade) and did risk analysis and transaction structuring and project management with the World Bank, USEA, JBIC, MARSH, ITOCHU, MVV, etc. Previously he worked as a project officer for energy and infrastructure in the World Bank, senior engineer managing a joint Atomic Energy of Canada Ltd-IMG-Bucharest quality engineering group for the manufacture of nuclear reactor components for the  CANDU units in Romania. He worked also 3 years as an international researcher for ENEA Rome – the Italian Commission for Energy New Technology and Environment – and 5 years as an associate researcher at ICTP Trieste. He took his second PhD in economics, (the first one in Nuclear Energy Engineering) and, he is also a Professor teaching a course in Risk management to masters of science in the Polytechnic University of Bucharest and Hyperion University. He is a member of the WEC study group  for energy scenarios 2050 and 2060 and a member of the Advisory Group for Energy of the EU Commission. He is also a member of the Advisory Council for Sustainable Development of the Prime Minister of Romania.

Dr Al Mazouzi is working as Fellow Expert and Research Engineer in charge of collaborative projects and European affairs at EDF R&D-production programme that he joined since April 2009. He is acting as the general secretariat of the Sustainable Nuclear Energy Technology Platform, an European Technology and Innovation platform recognized by the European commission. He is also an active member of the Secretariat of the European Industrial Alliance on SMRs since it’s inception. Dr. Al Maazouzi got his PhD in material science in 1989. He worked as Post Doc at Hahn Meitner Institute in Berlin/Germany, visiting scientist at Kyoto University Japan, as researcher at the Polytechnical School of Lausanne and project manager at Paul Scherrer institute in Switzerland, then as Senior scientist at SCK.CEN/Belgium before Joining EDF/France. He initiated and coordinated various international and European projects. He is author or co-author of more than 100 peer reviewed papers, and is member of many international and regional scientific and advisory groups.

Vladimír Wagner (1960) is nuclear physicists graduated from Faculty of Mathematics and Physics of the Charles University at Prague. He acts at the Nuclear Physics Institute of CAS in the fields of very hot and dense nuclear matter study and accelerator driven transmutation research. He lectures on the Faculty of Nuclear Sciences and Physical Engineering of CTU at Prague and he is member of Commission for Energy of CAS. He is promoter of science, physics and energy technologies. He gives lectures for students and public, and is an author of hundreds of articles, and wrote a book about the Fukushima accident

Ivan Hinovski is mechanical & nuclear engineer with more than 50 years experience in nuclear energy development with long term experience in the business in USA, France, Italy, IAEA, Japan, Canada.  

The key milestones of his professional carrier: 

-CEO of Bulgarian National Electric Company (1997-1998),

-MP and Chairman of the Parliamentary Energy Commission in 46th National Assembly of Bulgaria (2017); 

-Chairman of Bulgarian Energy and Mining Forum (since 2003);

- Chairman of Chamber of Energy Communities in Bulgaria (since 2023);

- Consultant of nuclear energy and SMR development and implementation projects.

With over a decade of experience in engineering and project management, I currently lead the deployment of Romania's first SMR at RoPower Nuclear. My expertise spans nuclear energy, power plants, hydrogen systems, and CO₂ capture technologies. I've led global teams at Siemens Energy and Honeywell, managing complex instrumentation, controls, and commissioning for international energy projects. Skilled in cross-functional coordination, contract management, and process improvement, I ensure timely, high-quality project delivery. My technical foundation includes thermal-hydraulic analysis, system design, and dynamic simulation, backed by a PhD in Nuclear Engineering from Politehnica University of Bucharest. I thrive in multidisciplinary teams, driving value through innovation and problem-solving. Fluent in English, with working knowledge of Spanish and German, I bring both leadership and technical depth to every project I manage.

Mr Matti Pentti is the Chief Commercial Officer at Steady Energy Oy. Steady Energy is a Finnish SMR technology company, developing a small modular reactor LDR-50, a 50 MW thermal effect nuclear reactor designed for low temperature and low pressure, especially suitable for district heat production. Mr Pentti has served in the energy business in various leadership positions for over 30 years, in oil and gas at ExxonMobil Ltd and Nordic energy company St1 Oy in deep geothermal projects and in wind power developing businesses. He has had positions as business director and CEO in various occasions and has extensive experience in mergers and acquisitions, business financing and development. Mr Pentti has a degree in Marine Engineering and has been involved in further educations related to business processes, industrial safety and national security matters.

Jesper Glahn, CCO at Copenhagen Atomics

Driving transformation of the global energy mix. MSc in Economics and Marketing and has worked more than 25 years in the fields of Technology and Innovation driving commercial development and driving the vision on technology transformation. Works with companies, academia and governments to advance adoption of the thorium molten salt reactor and related technologies. Serving on advisory boards and as a mentor at Copenhagen Business School

Rasmus Bjerngaard, Chief Business Officer at Saltfoss, spent the past 20+ years building technology companies as an entrepreneur and venture capitalist. He combines extensive experience in business building and venture capital investing with a deep technical knowledge. Before joining Saltfoss, Rasmus spent the 8 years building deeptech and climate tech companies in vertical farming, green ammonia, and natural hydrogen. Further back, he spent 7 years in venture capital, investing in North European hardware and software companies. First at Seed Capital Denmark, later as General Partner at Northcap. He has been an angel investor and for 5 years a board member at evergreen fund and startup studio Founders. In aggregate he has investment, board and operational experience from more than 30 technology startups. Prior to entering the venture capital industry, Rasmus was partner and manager in 3 technology startups in Denmark and Silicon Valley. He started out his career in cutting edge technology as a researcher publishing peer-reviewed papers about medical imaging. Purpose led him to join Doctors without Borders, where he managed a child center with 1400 children in a war zone in Northern Uganda and served on the board. Rasmus holds an Executive MBA from London Business School, an engineering degree in electronics and computer science from the Technical University of Denmark, and a Ba.Minor level in psychology from the University of Copenhagen. He lived in 5 different countries and visited 90+ countries.

Olli Soppela, M. Sc. (Eng) has worked on environmental energy technology research and innovation as an energy market analyst and project manager. He has been working on energy infrastructure development modeling and construction management. Olli has been deeply involved in the VTT's SMR research projects since early 2022. He currently works as the Customer Account Lead ensuring stakeholders interested in SMR deployment have the required technical and regulation compliance plans up to date. He is also a former executive board member of the World Energy Council – Future Energy Leaders Finland -programme.

Balder Hagert is Portfolio Manager at Kärnfull Next, where he leads the development of several early-stage nuclear new-build projects across the Nordics. His work spans stakeholder engagement, feasibility studies, regulatory pathways, and structuring multi-sector offtake solutions for electricity, heat, hydrogen, and fuels. He has also contributed to Swedish government investigations on improved nuclear licensing and future waste management. Previously, Balder was responsible for SMR business development at AFRY and managed nuclear decommissioning projects at Barsebäck and Oskarshamn NPP, focusing on waste logistics and change management. In parallel, he serves as Chairman of the Swedish Nuclear Society (SKS), a professional network of nuclear experts and enthusiasts with strong ties to academia and industry, and part of the European Nuclear Society’s 12,000-member community. He also hosts Sweden’s largest nuclear-focused podcast, broadening the conversation around energy, policy, and technology. Through SKS and his public work, he actively shapes dialogue, bridges technical detail with policy advocacy, and organizes national networking events. Balder combines solid project management skills with a natural talent for communicating complex topics to broad audiences, enabling him to mobilize stakeholders across industry, government, academia, and the public.

Ing. Daniel Seifert, Ph.D. is the Chief Technology Officer (CTO) at CZECHATOM a.s., where he currently specializes in the development of SMR technology and project leadership in nuclear fields. His professional profile is built on a foundation of nuclear chemistry and engineering, combining multidisciplinary knowledge in mechanical engineering, nuclear chemistry, dosimetry, software engineering, and additive technologies for the purpose of developing special prototypes for the nuclear environment. Throughout his career, he has led significant projects that have been successfully brought into commercial operation, such as the development and construction of equipment for the production of an Rb/Kr generator for the BV Cyclotron VU in the Netherlands. He also served as the deputy head of the Department of Radiopharmaceuticals. He leverages his skills and experience in work focused on connecting this knowledge to optimize development in nuclear fields, radiopharmacy, and other areas.

Jan Blomgren is CEO and founder of INBEx (Institute of Nuclear Business Excellence), providing independent nuclear executive advice and business leadership training globally. The INBEx team comprises over 20 former CEOs, Director Generals and similar. He was the youngest professor ever in Sweden in nuclear physics, holding the chair in applied nuclear physics at Uppsala University. His research was focused on neutroninduced nuclear reactions, an area in which he has published over 200 papers in refereed international journals and conference proceedings. When plans to build new nuclear power in Sweden were initiated, he was recruited to Vattenfall, one of the largest nuclear power operators in Europe. At Vattenfall, he was responsible for planning the competence development needed for nuclear new-build, as well as coordinating training for nuclear power plant personnel. In addition, he was Director of the Swedish Nuclear Technology Centre, which is the coordination organization for nuclear research and educat

Jan Blomgren is alone in Europe to have upheld high-ranked positions both at university and nuclear industry. He is frequently invited speaker at conferences, and he has served as invited expert advisor to the French Senate. In 2021, his books “Allt du behöver veta om Sveriges elförsörjning” (All you need to know about the Swedish power supply) and “Jodå, Gud spelar tärning” (Yes, God plays dice) both became best-sellers in their respective categories.

Dr. Jessica Lovering is a Senior Fellow with the Nuclear Innovation Alliance, a “think-and-do” tank based in Washington D.C. that performs policy analysis, research, outreach, and education to catalyze the next era of nuclear energy. In 2020, she completed her PhD at Carnegie Mellon University in Engineering & Public Policy. Her dissertation focused on how commercial nuclear trade affects international security standards and how very small nuclear reactors could be deployed at the community level. She is also a postdoctoral researcher with Uppsala University and a fellow with the Energy for Growth Hub, looking at how advanced nuclear can be deployed in sub-Saharan Africa.

Executive Director, Good Energy Collective (2024 – Present)

• Led organizational reorganization and strategic revision, rebuilding core teams and directing a new strategic plan.

• Reestablished renewable foundation support to $2.5M+ annually through restructuring and a new capital initiative.

• Expanded GEC's thought leadership and government affairs function, increasing output and policy scope.

Managing Director (Founding), Carbontech Development Initiative, Columbia University (2022 –2024)

• Oversaw $2.7M annually in R&D and commercialization programs.

• Designed accelerator and executive education programs.

Director for Research Coordination and Partnerships, Energy Institute, UT-Austin (2020 – 2022)

• Directed multimillion-dollar research initiatives and stakeholder consensus-building.

• Advanced STEM and policy research visibility through strategic communications.

Market Performance Project Manager, NYSERDA (2019 – 2020)

• Managed portfolio of market impact and MEL studies for clean energy innovation programs.

Fellow, Energy Systems Transformation Lab, UT-Austin (2017 – 2019)

• Directed policy and techno-economic research; oversaw operations for a 12-person team.

Senior Consultant, Research Into Action (2015 – 2017)

• Led evaluations of distributed generation, community solar, and market innovation programs.

Professor Igor Pioro – Ph.D. (1983); Doctor of Technical Sciences (1992); Professional Engineer (Ontario, Canada) (2008); Foreign Fellow of National Academy of Sciences of Ukraine (2021); Fellow of ASME (2012), Canadian Academy of Engineering (2023), CSME (2015), and Engineering Institute of Canada (EIC) (2013); life-time member of ANS (2004), and member of CNS (2010); is an internationally recognized scientist within the areas of nuclear engineering (thermalhydraulics of nuclear reactors, Generation-IV nuclear reactors, etc.) and thermal sciences/engineering (boiling, forced convection including supercritical pressures, etc.) He is author/co-author of more than 565 publications-14 technical books, 53 chapters in encyclopedias, handbooks, and books, 104 papers in refereed journals, 322 papers in refereed proceedings of international/national conferences/symposiums, 26 patents/inventions, and 46 major technical reports.Currently, he is associated with the Department of Energy and Nuclear Engineering Faculty of Engineering and Applied Science, University of Ontario Institute of Technology (brand name: Ontario Tech University) (Oshawa, Ontario, Canada).

As the CEO of MADDE, I lead a team of innovators in developing and implementing cutting-edge 3D printing systems for various industries, including semiconductor, space, and SMR. With over 15 years of experience in research and development, I have a proven track record of advancing 3D printing technology and materials to address productivity and material property challenges. My journey began as a Senior Research Engineer at Hyundai Motor Company, where I focused on developing innovative materials and 3D printing systems. I also hold a Ph.D. in Ceramic Composites, 3D printing, Geopolymer, and its applications in stress wave mitigation from the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign. My passion is to leverage my expertise in 3D printing and materials science to create sustainable and efficient solutions for the future.

I am currently Business Development PM at URENCO, working within Advanced Fuels. I am committed to expanding new nuclear markets to tackle climate change and strengthen energy security. Since joining URENCO in 2021, I have led efforts to lead on strategies and resolve supply chain challenges for advanced technologies. With a background in oil & gas, I have held senior roles across energy and fintech and am passionate about the role nuclear plays within reaching a sustainable future.

Renato Gazzano is a Mechanical Engineer with a PhD in Fluid Machinery and over 15 years of technical experience in the energy sector, specializing in steam turbines and power generation systems. At Fincantieri, he works as Proposal and Basic Design Engineer, responsible for developing PFDs, P&IDs, technical specifications, datasheets, and purchase requests. He serves as technical lead for the optimization and base design of steam turbines, ensuring performance, reliability, and compliance with project requirements. He supports negotiations through accurate technical documentation. His expertise includes thermodynamic analysis, turbine performance evaluation, and the integration of turbine systems within complete power islands. Previously, at Munters Italia, he worked in R&D on thermal generators, managing activities from concept design to certification for EU and US markets, including FMEA analysis, laboratory and field testing, and competitor benchmarking. Earlier, at the University of Sassari, his research focused on renewable energy applications and simulation models for wind turbines and building energy systems.

As Director of the Nuclear Safety Department at the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development, Balthasar Lindauer provides strategic and operational leadership in the management of the EBRD's nuclear safety projects and international multilateral donor Funds. The Funds were established to finance projects aimed at improving safety in nuclear facilities, assisting with the safe and secure decommissioning of nuclear power plants, providing facilities for the management of radioactive waste as well as the remediation of nuclear legacy sites in Eastern Europe and countries of the former Soviet Union. Prior to joining the EBRD, Balthasar has held a number of management positions and was in charge of international nuclear safety co-operation at the German Ministry of Environment and worked for a German technical safety organisation. He studied in Paris and Berlin and graduated from Freie Universitaet Berlin.

Zombor Berezvai has been Chief Economist at the Hungarian Competition Authority (GVH) since 2019, as well as being an Associate Professor at Corvinus University of Budapest. Prior to this, he worked at Procter & Gamble as a finance manager and at Planslab as a senior consultant. He obtained his PhD from Corvinus University of Budapest in 2021. At the GVH, he oversees the economic analyses conducted in merger and antitrust cases, as well as sector inquiries, and is involved in the authority’s international and advocacy work. He also teaches econometrics, data-driven decision-making, market research, and competition policy at various universities. He has published several papers in top-ranking journals and has received several prestigious awards, including the Academic Youth Award from the Hungarian Academy of Sciences in 2023, the Corvinus Research Excellence Award in 2021, 2022, 2023 and 2024, and the Outstanding Paper Literati Award from Emerald in 2020.

Minhwan Chang serves as the Chief Representative of KHNP's Prague Office, where he spearheads and coordinates KHNP's efforts in advancing new nuclear projects within the Czech Republic, called Dukovany 5&6 Project, which was signed the contract between EDUII and KHNP in June 2025. Since joining KHNP in 2002, Mr. Chang has amassed extensive expertise in nuclear power plant operations and international project development. Notably, in 2011, he played a pivotal role in the triumphant execution of the UAE Barakah NPP construction project, taking charge of ENEC personnel training and commissioning preparations. In 2014, Mr. Chang made significant contributions to global nuclear safety by serving as a Peer Reviewer at the WANO Tokyo Centre, furthering the cause of safe NPP operations across the globe. In recent times, Mr. Chang has directed his efforts exclusively towards the expansion of the overseas nuclear sector in Europe, underscoring his commitment to advancing this crucial industry.

Ivan Hinovski is mechanical & nuclear engineer with more than 50 years experience in nuclear energy development with long term experience in the business in USA, France, Italy, IAEA, Japan, Canada.  

The key milestones of his professional carrier: 

-CEO of Bulgarian National Electric Company (1997-1998); 

-MP and Chairman of the Parliamentary Energy Commission in 46th National Assembly of Bulgaria (2017); 

-Chairman of Bulgarian Energy and Mining Forum (since 2003);

- Chairman of Chamber of Energy Communities in Bulgaria (since 2023);- Consultant of nuclear energy and SMR development and implementation projects.

Working experiences and current position

24 years of experience in NPP Cernavoda, in various roles:

Started in Operations for 6 Years as Nuclear Operator, until finish of commissioning of Unit 2

Continued in Work Management for 10 years as process coordinator and 2 Years Look Ahead and Strategic Planning Superintendent. Implemented INPO AP 928 Work Management Process at Cernavoda NPP.

8 Years ago, I engaged in the new role of Chief Engineer in the Supply

Chain and Strategic Planning Department, which was newly established in 2017, and started to implement the strategic approach of Inventory and Warehouse for SPV and critical equipment.

Bachelor degree in mechanical engineering, project management and maritime industry. 

Jiří Marek is consultant in the field of nuclear energy and related activities, and Executive Head & Partner of consulting company JMM CS Ltd. He received his M.Sc. degree from the Czech Technical University, Faculty of Technical and Nuclear Physics, where he also completed post-gradual studies in nuclear power industry. His professional career started in research; further he worked in the nuclear power field since 1974 (until 1996 in ČEZ). For the last more than thirty years, he acted as the advisor of the Minister of Industry and Trade (with responsibility for activities supporting Temelín NPP completion), Chairman and Vice-Chairman of the Supervisory Board of ČEZ, a member of supervisory boards in several energy distribution companies and an advisor of a few Deputy Ministers of Finance. In his positions connected with state administration he was dealing with the reorganization of state administration in power industry, the development of state energy policy, the implementation of three-pillar system of radioactive waste disposal, the establishment of the State Office for Nuclear Safety and with the preparation of the privatization of Czech power industry. In his professional carieer he also managed a number of R&D projects concerning of the evaluation of the impact of nuclear energy on environment (radiological aspects, management of radioactive waste etc. From the 2015 year he is acting as President of the Association of Nuclears Veterans (CZ), the group associates most of the top professionals they dedicated their whole professional career to nuclear energy.

Attila Hugyecz is an economist, materials engineer and nuclear power plant operation engineer. He has been involved in the Paks II. project since its beginning, 2014. He worked on different topics of the project, like environmental licensing, electricity market analyses, state aid related questions. Currently Mr. Hugyecz works as the chief international officer of Paks II Ltd., he is responsible for establishing the international relationship network of Paks II.

Ovidiu Bolea is a Chartered Civil Engineer and senior leader in the nuclear new build sector, with extensive experience delivering complex, multi-billion-dollar infrastructure projects. He is currently Director New Build and Deputy Project Director for Cernavodă Units 3 & 4 in Romania, a flagship nuclear new build project. Alongside this, he has held senior leadership positions on Sizewell C in the UK with EDF, where he led governance, engineering integration, and the development of delivery strategies for one of Europe's largest nuclear projects.

Ovidiu's career spans major international programmes across nuclear, energy and infrastructure, including pivotal roles at Hinkley Point C and large civil engineering projects. He is recognised for his expertise in project governance, risk management, contract execution, and stakeholder engagement across government, industry, and regulatory bodies. With a reputation for building high-performing teams and ensuring safe, efficient delivery, Ovidiu brings both technical depth and executive leadership to the global nuclear sector.

Graduated from the Slovak Technical University in Bratislava with a degree in thermal energy and completed his MBA studies at the Prague International Business School. He has worked in top management positions and corporate structures of energy companies in Slovakia and the Czech Republic. He currently works as a Director for Development and International Operations of the nuclear company VUJE and simultaneously as a Country Lead of the nuclear energy company newcleo in Slovakia.

Olga Khomiak is a Senior Vice President in Natural Resources Corporate Banking team based in London, England.

Olga is responsible for driving Citi's Corporate Banking business with clients in the Power & Utilities sector in EMEA.

She has extensive experience in managing some of Citis largest global clients with complex and international needs providing strategic advice, corporate finance, capital markets, treasury and structured solutions as well as delivering Citis international network. Olga is leading the execution of all current Citi financing mandates in nuclear space in European region. Olga has 13 years of banking experience in UK/Europe across a range of transactions including debt, equity, acquisition finance, derivatives and other credit related products.

Ph.D. in Engineering and Nuclear Engineer, Instituto Balseiro.

Currently:

· President of the National Atomic Energy Commission (CNEA)

· Vice President of INVAP

· Vice President of Nucleoeléctrica Argentina S.A.

· Professor at Universidad de San Andrés

Founder and Director of CANDOIT (2007), an engineering and software development company. Has led over 40 technology development projects in the fields of modeling, computer simulation, and artificial intelligence.

Notable academic and institutional positions:

·Rector of ITBA

·Rector of UADE

· Dean of the School of Engineering (UADE)

· Head of International Relations at the National Atomic Energy Commission

· Researcher at Instituto Balseiro

· Professor at: Universidad Austral, ITBA, UADE, Universidad Técnica Federico Santa María (Chile), and Universidad Nacional de Cuyo

Author of 20 international publications, conference presentations, and co of two books.

Awards:

· Technology Transfer Initiatives Award, Ministry of Culture and Education

· "Ernesto E. Galloni" Award, National Academy of Exact, Physical and Natural Sciences

Associate professor at the Faculty of Energy and Fuels of the AGH University of Krakow, Head of Nuclear Energy Technology Team

Specializations: ENERGY, NUCLEAR ENERGY, NUCLEAR FUEL CYCLE

A graduate of the Faculty of Physics and Applied Computer Science, 2014 (Dr. Eng.) and the Inter-Faculty School of Power Engineering, 2008 (M.Sc. Eng.), AGH University of Krakow.

Author or co-author of over 100 scientific publications. Participant in several projects concerning the development of innovative nuclear technologies. A graduate of courses at the University of California, Berkeley – Haas School of Business, and educational programs of the International Atomic Energy Agency related to management and knowledge management in nuclear energy. He is an expert at the European Commission and a reviewer of many international scientific journals. 

Lorenzo has more than 20 years of experience in International nuclear projects (Italy, USA, France, Slovakia, Saudi Arabia, Bulgaria) for the engineering and construction of GENII, GENIII, GENIII+ NPP, SMR, experimental facilities and compact innovative nuclear power plants. He obtained a PhD in Nuclear Engineering from Milan Polytechnic on a experimental and theoretical study for a Small Modular Reactor (SMR) developed by a consortium led by Westinghouse. Lorenzo's main professional roles covered a wide spectrum of activities ranging from the design, feasibility studies, experimental investigations, expertise activities, construction management, project engineering, project management, relations with nuclear regulators and business development. He managed, as direct responsible, NPP EPC contracts for approved budget of over € 800 M. Today Lorenzo is Director of Nuclear Business Development for Worley.

Sarah has 13+ years of experience in Energy Corporate Finance with sector specialty on

Energy Transition including Nuclear, LDES, BESS, Biofuels, SAF, Blue and Green Hydrogen.

Sarah joined RBC in 2018, having previously worked in corporate M&A in the Oil & Gas sector.

She holds an MBA from the University of Cambridge.

Experience includes:

− Advisor to CIP on the sale of a 50% stake in Coalburn 1 to AXA IM, a UK BESS asset (2025)

− Advisor to Protium Green Solutions on its Series B Private Capital Raise with Itochu, SWEN and Barclays (2025)

− Advisor to World Energy GH2 on its C$128m credit facility with Government of Canada (2024)

− Advisor to World Energy on the sale of its Californian SAF facility to Air Products (2023)

− Advisor to Premier Oil on the public merger with Chrysaor to form Harbour Energy (2021)

− Advisor to underbidder on the acquisition of Shell’s Egyptian Western Desert Portfolio (2020)

− Advisor to Saudi Aramco on the world’s largest IPO (2019)

− Advisor to Orca Exploration on its Strategic Review & Defence mandate regarding hostile takeover bid (2019)

− Advisor to Energean on its US$265mm secondary fundraising on the LSE in order to acquire of Edison E&P (2019)

Adina Aurel is Counsel at Wolf Theiss and a member of the Energy & Projects team in Bucharest. With 20+ years'  legal experience in the energy sector, she played key roles in major M&A and infrastructure projects, with a focus on nuclear law and regulatory frameworks.

Her practice covers the full life cycle of nuclear and renewable projects, including development, licensing, due diligence, regulatory compliance, operational advice, and project integration. Adina has worked with the Cernavodă Nuclear Power Plant and is involved in Small Modular Reactor (SMR) initiatives in Romania. Her expertise also includes negotiating EPC/O&M agreements, advising on power purchase agreements (PPAs), energy storage, gas-fired generation, and ensuring alignment with EU and national legislation. Adina holds a Bachelor of Law and International Relations from the "Nicolae Titulescu" University of Bucharest and she is member of the Bucharest Bar since 2003.

Kelly Malone works as an Energy Lawyer for the international law firm, King & Spalding LLP, and serves as co-head of the firm's Nuclear Power Team. He regularly advises National Governments and State-owned companies during the procurement, development, financing and construction of large nuclear power plants and has served as lead legal advisor on some of the highest profile nuclear power procurement programs globally.

Ravi Khanna joined GSE Solutions in 2016 and currently serves as President and CEO. With a foundation in Chemical Engineering and over 25 years of experience, he has led growth across technology sectors including defense, satellite telecommunications, and consulting. Before GSE, he held leadership roles at Accenture and ViaSat, where he expanded military and commercial business lines, drove acquisitions, and delivered revenue growth through technology-driven transformation. At GSE, he began as a senior program manager, advancing the simulation business to enhance power industry training. Earlier in his career, he worked at Aspen Technology in cost estimation modeling, then at ViaSat supporting satcom programs through cloud, BI, and analytics initiatives. At Accenture, he guided Fortune 500 clients in DevOps and digital solutions. Mr. Khanna holds a B.S. in Chemical Engineering (University of Maryland), M.S. in Computer Science (Johns Hopkins), and MBA (UC San Diego).