At the start of the new year, we have great scientific news!
Six projects from Karazin University have been recommended for funding within the framework of the “Frontier Science in Ukraine for 2026–2028” competition. These are projects by Vyacheslav Beresnev, Serhii Bohatyrenko, Dmytro Boiko, Mykola Mchedlov-Petrossian, Viktor Rozumenko, and Serhii Yakovlev. We spoke about this remarkable achievement with Anton Panteleimonov, Vice-Rector for Research and Teaching at Karazin University.
Q: Anton Vitaliiovych, this year Karazin University is represented by six winning projects at once. How significant is this result?
A: This is indeed a very important result for our University and for the entire scientific community. Six supported projects within one of the most prestigious national competitions show that Karazin University has strong research schools capable of generating ideas of global level. It also confirms that our researchers can tackle major scientific challenges and formulate them in a way that is understood by the international expert community.
It is also worth emphasizing that such a result is not accidental. It became possible thanks to many years of systematic work, investment in human potential, and the preservation of academic traditions even under extremely difficult conditions. For the University, this is a signal that the chosen course of scientific development is the right one and should be consistently continued.
Q: What areas of science do these projects cover?
A: First and foremost, they involve fundamental fields that form the basis of modern scientific knowledge. This includes physics at different scales — from the microworld to cosmic processes — modern mathematics, materials science, as well as research of the atmosphere and near-Earth space. These are precisely the domains that determine the technological capabilities of the future and create a foundation for applied solutions.
At the same time, these projects are not detached from current trends. They actively develop interdisciplinary approaches, including areas that combine physics, chemistry, mathematics, and information technologies. This shows that our scientists work in line with global science and respond to the pressing demands of our time.
Q: Serhii Yakovlev’s project has applied aspects. Why is it important for society?
A: This project is a vivid example of how complex mathematical theories can find practical application. Combining methods of advanced mathematics and machine learning makes it possible to create models capable of analyzing large datasets and making predictions in complex systems. Such approaches are extremely in demand today.
The practical value of the project lies in the possibility of using its results for forecasting emergencies, monitoring the environment, and managing resources more effectively. In a broader sense, it is a contribution to the security, resilience, and adaptability of the state to modern challenges, which makes this project socially significant.
Q: Viktor Rozumenko’s research concerns space weather in the atmosphere and near-Earth environment. What makes it relevant?
A: Space weather has a direct impact on the functioning of modern civilization. Communication systems, satellite navigation, energy infrastructure, and aviation all depend on processes occurring in the upper atmosphere and near-Earth space. Understanding these processes is critically important.
In today’s conditions, as society’s dependence on technology continues to grow, such research becomes strategically significant. It allows mechanisms for risk reduction to be developed. This makes the project important from a national perspective.
Q: Serhii Bohatyrenko’s project is related to spintronics. Why is it the science of the future?
A: Spintronics opens up new principles for electronic devices by using not only the electron’s charge, but also its spin. This makes it possible to create components with much lower energy consumption and higher operating speed. That is why this field is considered one of the key directions for the future of electronics.
For Ukraine, it is important that spintronics is an area where fundamental research can quickly transform into technological breakthroughs. The project demonstrates that our scientists are able to work at the cutting edge of science and remain competitive globally, creating a foundation for future innovations.
Q: What makes Vyacheslav Beresnev’s project distinctive?
A: This project focuses on fundamental research in technological plasma and nanostructured thin-film materials. It is about a deep understanding of material formation processes at the nanoscale—an extremely complex yet highly promising area of modern physics.
The practical potential of such research lies in the possibility of creating materials with pre-defined properties. This opens the way to new solutions in industry, energy, and high technologies, even if direct application appears only after some time.
Q: Mykola Mchedlov-Petrossian’s project seems more chemistry-oriented. What is its value?
A: The research focuses on studying phase boundaries in organized solutions that serve as reaction media. This is fundamental chemistry that helps us better understand the behavior of complex systems at the molecular level. Such knowledge is the basis for many other fields.
The value of this project lies in its universality. The results obtained can be used in pharmaceuticals, materials science, chemical technologies, and biomedical research. This is how fundamental science gradually transforms into applied solutions.
Q: What unites all six Karazin University projects?
A: They are united by a high level of fundamental research and an orientation toward long-term results. These are studies that do not produce an immediate effect, but they form the basis for future scientific and technological breakthroughs. They are carried out in the language of contemporary international science.
In addition, all projects have potential for integration into the global scientific community. They are open to collaboration, publications in leading journals, and participation in international consortia—factors that are extremely important for the University’s development.
Q: How tough was the competition within this selection?
A: The competition was extremely intense, as leading universities and research institutions from across the country took part. Each project underwent multi-level evaluation, and the requirements for scientific quality and justification were very strict.
The fact that Karazin University’s projects received high average scores is convincing evidence of their competitiveness. This is the result of serious preparation, well-designed scientific concepts, and the professional work of the teams.
Q: How will grant support affect the University environment?
A: Grant support makes it possible to preserve and develop research teams and ensure stable work of laboratories and research groups. It creates conditions for continuity of research, which is especially important in times of instability.
In addition, such projects make it possible to actively involve young scientists and students in real research. This shapes a new generation of researchers who see перспективу in working at Ukrainian universities and are ready to link their future with them.
Q: Do these wins strengthen the University’s international image?
A: Absolutely. Such achievements significantly increase the University’s visibility on the international stage. They demonstrate that even under difficult conditions, Ukrainian science is capable of producing high-level results.
This also opens new opportunities for international cooperation, joint projects, and academic exchanges. Partners see that Karazin University is a reliable and strong research player.
Q: How important is support for science in Ukraine right now?
A: Supporting science today is critically necessary for the country’s future. Science forms the foundation for recovery, technological independence, and economic development. Without investment in knowledge, sustainable growth is impossible.
In difficult times, science is not a luxury but a necessity. It helps find solutions to new challenges and shapes a strategic vision for the state’s development for years ahead.
Q: How does the University support the preparation of grant applications?
A: The University has built a systematic support process for researchers at all stages of project preparation. This includes consultations, internal review, help with documentation, and strategic planning of research.
We also support projects at the implementation stage, helping teams use resources effectively and achieve their scientific goals. Such an approach significantly improves the quality of applications and final outcomes.
Q: What do these six projects say about Karazin University today?
A: They show that the University remains a center of vibrant, strong, and competitive science. Despite all challenges, intellectual potential and a drive for development are preserved here.
This is also evidence of the University’s responsibility to society and the state. Karazin University works not only for science itself, but also for the future of Ukraine—investing in knowledge that will have a long-term effect.
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