As war reshapes nations, the scientific community in Ukraine faces unprecedented challenges. On February 24th, 2022, the invasion of Ukraine shattered the ordinary lives of its citizens, among them scientist Olena Iarmosh. Once nestled in the heart of Kharkiv, Iarmosh’s escape to Switzerland marks a poignant tale of survival amid destruction.
In the wake of the conflict, Gaétan de Rassenfosse and his team at EPFL embarked on an extensive survey. They analysed responses from roughly 2500 Ukrainian scientists in autumn 2022. The results, published in Humanities and Social Sciences Communications, paint a stark picture — a loss of 20% of top scientists and a 20% decline in research capacity. The scientific community grapples with restricted access to resources, both physical and intellectual.
“Our survey shows that Ukraine has lost almost 20% of top scientists, like Olena,” explains de Rassenfosse
SCIENTIFIC COMMUNITY IN CRISIS: CHALLENGES FACED
For those who remain in Ukraine, the challenges are manifold. Approximately 15% have abandoned research, their focus shifted by the demands of wartime circumstances. The study highlights a critical need for immediate support programs and scholarships, especially for scientists seeking refuge in other countries.
A GLIMPSE INTO EXILE
Olena’s Journey: Olena Iarmosh’s journey reflects the broader narrative of scientists in exile. With a temporary position at EPFL, she navigates the intricacies of employer contracts and a new life in Switzerland. Despite the challenges, Ukrainian universities persist in online education, a testament to their commitment to lecturers and researchers.
DISCONNECT AND ITS DANGERS: URGENT CALL FOR ACTION
De Rassenfosse warns of a growing disconnect among Ukrainian scientists, emphasizing the threat to the nation’s scientific future. Urgent calls for policymakers to anticipate the renewal of the research system echo, urging the global community to play a pivotal role in rebuilding and mentoring the next generation.
NURTURING A NEW SCIENTIFIC LEGACY
Amidst the ruins, Olena Iarmosh remains a patriot of Kharkiv, emphasizing the human loss and the resilience of those who stayed behind. This narrative calls for international collaboration to safeguard Ukraine’s scientific legacy — a mission extending beyond infrastructure, encompassing the revival of a once-thriving scientific community. Join the global call to support the rebuilding of Ukrainian science.
