Meet the People of IAEA Safeguards

Janine Lambert

How did you end up joining the IAEA and what were you doing prior to that?

I had been watching positions at the IAEA ever since interning at BNL, as these roles leveraged my technical and international experience. Before the IAEA, I was a math and science teacher in the Peace Corps in Namibia. Following that, I was a Research Engineer/Scientist at Idaho National Laboratory (INL).

What have you learned about yourself while working at this capacity?

I have learned that I enjoy managing international projects and working as a bridge between technical and non-technical groups. A focus on teaching others gives me a great sense of accomplishment. I have also rediscovered my love for travel and meeting new people.

How will working at the IAEA enhance your career?

This position helped me to be more comfortable in diverse working groups and with a variety of communication styles and worldviews. It also gave me extensive empathy and cultural awareness experience that will help me greatly in the rest of my career and life. Respecting and learning from people with different backgrounds can only make projects easier and more efficient.

What is the most interesting thing that has happened to you since you started working at the IAEA?

The most interesting thing that happened to me was being nominated as the liaison between the Division of Technical and Scientific Services and the rest of the IAEA for the glossary update and the symposium 2022 planning group. It was wonderful to meet so many internal and external professionals while pursuing a common goal.

What is your favorite thing about your current work at the IAEA?

My favorite thing about my current work at the IAEA is providing a bridge between the technical and nontechnical stakeholders and learning more about their work and experience.

What would you say to those that are hesitant to apply?

I would say “Why not? Life is about gaining new experiences and it can only help your career. Additionally, there are great things to gain outside of work, such as amazing friends and travel experiences.”