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'Young Scientists Can Indeed Compete with Experienced Researchers'
© HSE University
The participants examined some of the opportunities offered by HSE University in this regard; among other things, the discussion featured both popular and new projects and competitions, and advice on securing a travel grant to attend academic events.
'The Key to Science: Unlocking Students' Research Potential at HSE University' was the topic of the Samovar Discussion Club’s recent meeting. The keynote speaker was Andrey Kozhanov, Director of the HSE Centre for Student Academic Development (CSAD) and Director of the Russian 'Znanie' Society, Moscow branch. Roman Levkovich, Director for Public Relations at HSE University, moderated the session.
One of the primary differences between HSE University and other universities is that the phrase 'student science' is hardly ever used here, according to Andrey Kozhanov. 'We believe that there is no such thing as "student science" but there is simply science—universal, equitable, and competitive for all. Young scientists can indeed compete with experienced researchers, provided that suitable conditions are established for this,' he explained.
Overall, approximately one-third of students at HSE University feel that they are engaged in science in one way or another. Numerous opportunities facilitate this, such as the traditionally held research seminars, project-based activities hosted by faculties, and competitions of research and study groups and student research papers (NIRS).
Additionally, students have access to multiple opportunities through the Project Fair, where they can engage in research, applied, and service projects, while earning credit points. Other options include scientific internships and participation in research expeditions. There are programmes where participants receive financial compensation for their involvement, such as the Research Assistant Programme and working as a research assistant in a laboratory.
The HSE Centre for Student Academic Development was established to support and advance 'student scientific forefront'—namely, student research conducted beyond the curriculum.
'Our objective is to establish a system of incentives that ensures access for students who require it, while also prompting those who do not see the need for it to consider such opportunities for themselves,' this is how Andrei Kozhanov explained the Centre's mission.
For example, one of the CSAD's earliest and largest projects has been the Science Republic enabling the university to provide support to students demonstrating high academic potential. The Centre has also organised competitions and projects aimed at fostering research skills, which includes providing travel grants for attending academic events. Andrey Kozhanov noted this year’s trend—a rapid and significant increase in student applications for this programme. At the same time, the proportion of conferences hosted by domestic universities has also been growing. All quality applications have been awarded by the Centre, with no limitations on the number of applications that can be accepted, the director emphasised.
HSE Science Battles is another prominent project which is held five times a year and was a finalist for the 'Loyalty to Science' Award from the Russian Ministry of Education and Science in 2023. Plans for this year include expanding the project to add monothematic battles.
'Write Not Procrastinate' is a Telegram channel launched to assist students with writing term papers and, more broadly, to advance the academic environment.
'Accelerator for Young Lecturers' is a recent project implemented by HSE University in collaboration with the Russian ‘Znanie’ Society. Since its launch last summer, the project has trained approximately 400 people and is open to anyone, not limited to students or employees of HSE University and without age restrictions.
Somewhat unexpectedly, the project has been highly sought after. 'There is a demand for education, and many people enjoy giving public talks. They select a specific aspect of a topic, which adds uniqueness to the event. For example, there has been a lecture on the dietary habits of the Russian public during Sergey Yesenin's time. It's wonderful that people are willing to work on creating their own lectures and step into the role of lecturers,' observed Andrey Kozhanov.
The CSAD director also discussed the informal scientific communities spontaneously formed by students at HSE University. Many of these communities are both intriguing and unusual. For example, there's the 'quiet zoom,' where students log onto an online platform at a designated time, turn on their cameras, and silently work on their term papers or essays.
Additionally, Andrey Kozhanov shared his impressions of attending the World Youth Festival which was held at the Sirius Federal Territory and ended in early March. Approximately 50 HSE students participated in the festival's programmes devoted to business and education, and attended lectures delivered by prominent scientists.