ANALYSIS OF METHODS OF STIMULATING RESEARCH ACTIVITIES OF TEACHERS IN RUSSIAN AND WESTERN UNIVERSITIES

The authors conduct a comparative analysis of the methods of stimulating “research activity” in Russian and Western universities, revealing the interaction of financial, intellectual and structural incentives operating within different academic ecosystems, each of which is shaped by cultural, economic and institutional factors. The analysis considers the influence of economic factors: Russian universities align their research programs with national economic priorities, as demonstrated by the 22% increase in state-funded applied research grants, while Western universities focus on the market academic economy, where external funding organizations have a significant influence on the trajectory of research. The discussion emphasizes the need for a “hybrid incentive model” in which financial rewards are balanced with opportunities for intellectual autonomy, thereby creating an environment that encourages sustainable and meaningful engagement in research over time. Research methods and techniques. The authors apply a comparative analysis, which is used to identify differences and similarities in approaches to stimulating research activity in Russian and Western universities; data analysis, including quantitative indicators, such as the number of publications and grants, as well as qualitative aspects, including pedagogical trends and institutional culture. The novelty of the article lies in the integration of various incentives, suggesting the interaction of financial, intellectual and structural factors in the context of the academic ecosystem. The novelty lies in the proposal of a term that denotes non-monetary incentives, such as intellectual self-realization and interdisciplinary collaboration, namely: the concept of “cognitive stimulation”. The article emphasizes the need for hybrid approaches to stimulation, which is innovative in the context of existing models. The practical significance of the article lies in the fact that the results of the study can be used to develop methodological recommendations for improving incentives for scientific activity in universities. The practical application of the hybrid incentive model can help universities adapt to changes in the academic environment and increase scientific productivity. Developing recommendations for creating an environment conducive to sustainable and meaningful participation in research can improve the quality of scientific activity in educational institutions.