Subordinate to the Atomic Energy Organization of Iran (AEOI) and is "continuing the work of its former Research Division" according to the European Union.

Added on August 29, 2014 to the Specially Designated Nationals (SDN) list maintained by the U.S. Department of the Treasury's Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC); removed from the SDN list in January 2016 as part of the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action.

Listed by the European Union on July 26, 2010 as an entity linked to Iran's proliferation-sensitive nuclear activities or Iran's development of nuclear weapon delivery systems; removed from the E.U. list in January 2016 as part of the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action; designated (with a pursuant asset freeze) by the Japanese government in September 2010 as an entity that could contribute to Iran's nuclear activities.

Listed by the British government in 2015 as an entity of potential concern for WMD-related procurement; listed by the Japanese government in 2015 as an entity of concern for proliferation relating to missiles and nuclear weapons.

Implemented nuclear projects including at Iran's 40-megawatt Arak heavy water reactor, according to the U.S. Department of State; has engaged with Modern Industries Technique Company (MITEC) to produce lead glass for use in hot cell facilities at Arak, which would be adequate for research-scale plutonium extraction.

Oversees the Nuclear Fuel Cycle Research School, Nuclear Science Research School, Material Research School, Radiation Application Research School, Plasma Physics and Nuclear Fusion Research School, Optic and Laser Research Institute, Reactors and Accelerators Research and Development School, and the Agricultural, Medical and Industrial Research School; shares an address with Esfahan Nuclear Fuel Research and Production Center (ENTC).

Managing director is AEOI Vice President Mohammad Ghannadi.