Shauryavardhan, Junior Specialist at the Nuclear Energy Agency

In my current role, as a Junior Specialist, I work with a diverse range of member countries representing nearly 80% of all nuclear power generating economies of the world, supporting the implementation of programmes and projects. In specific, the projects and programmes that I currently support, seek through international cooperation, to advance the scientific and technological bases required for the management of radioactive waste and decommissioning and dismantling of nuclear facilities. In this role I also serve as the Technical Secretariat for various high-level bodies convened by the NEA, working to facilitate stakeholder relationships, producing high-level scientific reports and briefing materials, identifying new areas of work and advancing solutions for the safe, environmentally and scientifically sound use of nuclear energy for peaceful purposes.

The academic environment at Sciences Po and PSIA combining academic rigor, intellectual curiosity, and honing of necessary practical skills . This environment definitely helped me prepare for this role.  The one-on-one mentoring offered by PSIA Careers offering guidance for curation of one's CV, letter of Motivation and providing tips and tricks on how to apply  were also very much appreciated especially given my background as an international student and one relatively unfamiliar with the European context.

Working in this field during such a dynamic and exciting time of nuclear innovation and greater interest in nuclear energy. Through my role and responsibilities I have gained first-hand experience in the realm of international diplomacy working with various member states to advance scientific solutions and forge common understanding which has been a very illuminating experience. At a personal level, it has been fascinating to work also in the larger field of net-zero and climate mitigation while understanding the crucial role nuclear energy has to play in these policy debates and considerations.

I started this job as a Stagiaire during my 3rd Semester at PSIA. The international exposure offered by PSIA, along with the learnings from the courses and associated skills required such as writing of policy briefs, memos, reports, complex analysis and reasoning, critical analysis and proactiveness - along with a willingness to learn, are skills that well translated into my Stagiaire and subsequently my current job role with the NEA.

As someone on the other side, while recognizing the importance of building personal networks and connections, I would offer the advice that there will always be an opportunity waiting. One way or other, things tend to work out as cliche as that might sound!