On the issue of forming new research infrastructure in Ukraine in modern conditions

Abstract

Problem setting. In the current context of full-scale war, which profoundly impacts all sectors of society, the formation and modernisation of research infrastructures in Ukraine have become especially urgent. The destruction of scientific facilities, forced migration of researchers, chronic underfinancing, and growing technological lag pose a significant threat to the country’s scientific and technical potential. At the same time, Ukrainian science maintains a strong human capital and a chance for further integration into the global scientific community — provided a modern, sustainable, and effective research infrastructure is established. This necessity underlines the need for a comprehensive analysis of factors affecting the formation of new research centers, taking into account international experience, wartime conditions, and Ukraine’s strategic priorities.

Analysis of recent researches and publications. Analysis of the scientific literature shows growing interest in the topic, both nationally and internationally, especially under conditions of global challenges stemming from war, digital transformation, and the need for innovative renewal in science. Ukrainian researchers, in particular V. Semynozhenko, O. Zelinsky, and L. Lytvynenko, highlight the necessity of modernizing the country’s scientific infrastructure, integrating it into the international scientific space, and developing new models of scientific governance. An important role in forming strategic priorities belongs to the Concept of the State Target Programme for Research Infrastructures in Ukraine until 2026, approved by the Cabinet of Ministers of Ukraine (Order No. 322-р of 14 April 2021), which sets out a systematic approach to developing the country’s scientific facilities. At the international level, numerous studies, especially within EU programs Horizon 2020 and Horizon Europe, and policy documents from organizations such as ESFRI, demonstrate the role of mechanisms like public-private partnerships, institutional autonomy, and collaborative scientific hubs. Successful cases from the EU (CERN, XFEL, Euro-BioImaging) and the USA (Argonne, MIT.nano) show the potential for transformation and strengthening international cooperation. Thus, the available sources enable us to form a holistic view of the challenges and opportunities Ukraine faces in developing its scientific ecosystem.

Target of research. The aim of the article is to investigate the current state, problems, and prospects for the formation of new research infrastructures in Ukraine under conditions of war and post-war recovery, focusing on regulatory framework, international experience, and strategic approaches to modernize the scientific sphere and integrate it into the international context.

Article’s main body. The formation of new research infrastructures is a key challenge and opportunity for Ukraine today — a process requiring a systematic, strategic, and innovative approach. This will enable strengthening the country's scientific potential, securing its technological independence, and fostering its further economic growth.
Ukraine’s scientific base comprises numerous universities, research institutions, and laboratories. However, these entities suffer from insufficient funding, a shortage of qualified personnel due to migration, and a significant technological gap.
Ukraine is a party to the Association Agreement with the European Union, which includes a commitment to integrate into the European scientific community. This forms a strong basis for developing mechanisms to enable greater participation in European programs and for strengthening international collaborations. The country must create a national roadmap for developing its research infrastructures, launch multidisciplinary platforms and collective use centers, and implement new models of management with due consideration for autonomy, flexibility, and openness to international cooperation.

Conclusions and prospects for the development.
The formation of new research infrastructures is a complex but essential process for strengthening science and technology in Ukraine. This will require a collective effort from the government, the scientific community, and business stakeholders. Only through this collaborative approach can we overcome existing challenges and realize the potential of Ukrainian science at the international level.