Strengthening Research Careers in Wartime Ukraine: Challenges, Reforms, and Joint Pathways for the Future

This presentation was delivered by Prof. Yana Suchikova, Vice-Rector for Research at Berdyansk State Pedagogical University (BSPU), during the Joint Polish–Ukrainian Meeting of Vice-Rectors for Research held in Warsaw on 20–21 October 2025.It provides an analytical overview of how Ukrainian universities sustain research and doctoral education under wartime conditions and outlines strategies for strengthening research careers through institutional reforms and international collaboration. The presentation highlights: Systemic challenges facing Ukraine’s research sector, including displacement of scientists, loss of infrastructure, low funding, and mental health risks. Current trends in PhD admission and emerging distortions linked to wartime policies. Retention issues among early-career researchers and measures that can improve mentoring, stability, and professional growth. Existing national initiatives supporting young scientists through grants, scholarships, and project funding. Future directions, such as Industrial and Project-Based Doctorates, designed to align doctoral education with innovation ecosystems. Joint Polish–Ukrainian initiatives aimed at building sustainable research careers — including dual PhD programmes, peer mentoring networks, and shared career support centres. The presentation calls for coordinated efforts between Ukrainian and European partners to rebuild human capital, modernize doctoral education, and promote the resilience of science in times of crisis.