ZFR is a scientific and technical joint facility, whose principal task is to operate the FRJ-2 research reactor including experimental devices such as the cold source and irradiation rigs. This comprises the implementation of irradiations including sample packaging and dispatch as well as the supply of fresh and the disposal of spent fuel elements. Operation is accompanied by the Division's own theoretical analyses using the most up-to-date computer programs on neutron physics and thermohydraulics. In addition to the operational tasks, work on securing the medium-term continuation of reactor operation is a further priority. This includes measures to increase operational reliability, availability and economic efficiency and to maintain the state of the art in damage prevention. Above and beyond the disposal of its own fuel elements (FEs), ZFR also participates in work supported by the Federal Ministry of Economics and Technology (BMWi) on a national waste management path for research reactor FEs.

ZFR is subdivided into four departments: one for the operation of the reactor, the second for the operation of experiments and the handling of activated components, the third for maintenance and repair and the fourth for safeguards tasks. The external neutron guide laboratory for experiments with cold neutrons is affiliated to ZFR. The maintenance crew has its own mechanical workshop and electrotechnical laboratories for servicing the control systems and radiation protection instrumentation