Research and innovation (R&I) in Ukraine has seen challenging times since the break-up of the Soviet Union, most recently facing major damage to R&I infrastructure due to the Russian aggression. However, as the country obtained EU candidate status and started the EU negotiations in July 2024, the ambition to promote its research system and ensure its integration into the European Research Area has received a new impetus.
The RIFF project will facilitate an upgrade of R&I system in Ukraine by offering a fresh and forward-looking perspective on the Ukrainian research infrastructures RIs. RIFF will deliver “Roadmap for Recovery and Enhancement of RIs in Ukraine” using both (1) bottom-up approach with an open call for proposals, robust training, awareness raising and dissemination strategy towards potential applicants, rooted in a network of eight partners in Ukraine; and (2) top-down approach with a robust consultation process involving a broad range of stakeholders from the government, policymakers and the scientific community. It will reflect also the green and digital transition priorities. The roadmapping process will apply peer-review methodology established by ESFRI and engage panels of internationally renowned experts. RIFF activities will efficiently connect Ukrainian RIs to EU/ESFRI through the implementation team linked to major European RIs and a comprehensive strategy for enabling mobility and knowledge exchange between EU RIs and the Ukrainian scientific community, including training programme for Ukrainian RI managers, operators and policymakers. Finally, we will implement an ambitious promotion programme among national and international stakeholders.
The robust roadmapping approach of RIFF, assisted by leading international experts, will offer credible steps towards recovery and enhancement of RIs in Ukraine. The Roadmap will provide guidance for national funding of RIs, and will also be a trustworthy investment guideline to international donors.
