This special issue of JRP includes a selection of research papers and review articles presented at the IRPA15 congress as chosen by the scientific committee. All invited journal contributions are suitably expanded beyond the initial conference presentations to meet the criteria for a full journal article and include (1) presentation within a comprehensive radiological protection context, (2) additional data/ interpretation. Published contributions address a wide spectrum of scientific topics and concepts to further develop the radiation protection system. They are based on scientific evidence and available experience from a wide spectrum of applications of the protection system. IRPA is the international voice of the radiation protection profession. It promotes excellence in radiation protection by providing benchmarks of good practice, enhancing professional competence and encourages the application of the highest standards of professional conduct, skills and knowledge for the benefit of individuals and society. Within the overarching theme of the conference "Bridging Radiation Protection Culture and Science - Widening Public Empathy" IRPA15 provided an invaluable opportunity to discuss and strengthen the relations between radiation protection culture and science, and share developing scientific knowledge and related experiences in radiation protection among members of the scientific community, between representatives of key international organizations, including ICRP, IAEA, WHO, NEA but also with the public. Some discussions focused on the rationale of available radiation protection programs and priorities, with an opportunity to identify and further develop key scientific issues of the current RP system as well as key processes for the interaction between members of scientific community and the society. The scientific program of IRPA15 included 8 topic and 4 thematic areas. The topical areas were: Underpinning Science; Dosimetry and Measurement; the System of Protection; Standards and Regulation; Practical Implementation: Medical Sector as well as Industry and Research; Emergency Preparedness and Response; Existing Exposures and Non-ionizing Radiation. The thematic areas addressed were: Ethics; Communication, Public Understanding; Human Capital and Competency; and Culture. Keywords: further development and application of the RP system.
Key outcome summaries of the scientific programme of the IRPA15 congress.