For more than 50 years research reactors have played an important role in the development of nuclear science and technology. They have made significant contributions to a large number of disciplines, as well as to the educational and research programmes of about 70 countries worldwide. There are substantial utilization issues being faced by the research reactor community, including the selection, design and operation of various types of devices in research reactors. This publication has been prepared by the IAEA to facilitate the exchange of ideas, concepts and experience. It presents descriptions of design and utilization features of facilities and associated devices that are implemented in different research reactors worldwide, covering selected fields of application.