Ukrainian Science: Grassroots Organizations Leading the Charge
As the Russia-Ukraine conflict continues to escalate, the impact on Ukrainian science and research institutions has been devastating. University buildings in Kharkiv and other areas have suffered significant damage, leaving many researchers and scientists struggling to continue their work. In response to this crisis, grassroots organizations have emerged to lead the charge in preserving and rebuilding the scientific community in Ukraine.
One such organization is Science at Risk, founded by Yulia Bezvershenko, Kyrylo Beskorovainyi, and Daria Kuzyava. Recognizing the urgent need to protect research and scientific infrastructure in Ukraine, the team set out to document the damage done to Ukrainian science and develop strategies for responding to future crises more effectively. Through their efforts, Science at Risk has highlighted the extent of the destruction, listing institutions affected by the conflict and detailing the repairs needed to restore them to full functionality.
The devastating impact of the conflict on Ukrainian science is evident in the damage done to institutions such as the Institute of Mathematics of the National Academy of Sciences of Ukraine in Kyiv and the Radio Astronomy Institute in Kharkiv. With millions of hryvnia needed for repairs, it is clear that immediate action is required to support these vital research facilities. Science at Risk aims to raise awareness of the challenges faced by Ukrainian scientists and provide a platform for international support and collaboration.
Coordinating Support and Building Connections
In the wake of the conflict, the global scientific community has rallied to support Ukrainian researchers and students. Sanita Reinsone, a digital-humanities researcher, launched the #ScienceForUkraine initiative to collate offers of support from around the world. What started as a Twitter account quickly evolved into a dedicated website, where volunteers could submit listings and connect with Ukrainian researchers in need of assistance.
The overwhelming response to #ScienceForUkraine underscores the solidarity and generosity of the global scientific community. Offers of funding, sanctuary spaces, and access to equipment poured in, demonstrating the willingness of researchers to stand in solidarity with their Ukrainian counterparts. The initiative has since evolved into a global network of volunteers, coordinating offers of support and providing a lifeline to researchers impacted by the conflict.
Empowering the Ukrainian Scientific Diaspora
As Ukrainian researchers continue to grapple with the aftermath of the conflict, the Ukrainian Science Diaspora initiative has emerged as a crucial source of support and connection. Founded by Yevheniia Polishchuk and Igor Lyman, the organization aims to unite Ukrainian scientists living abroad and harness their knowledge and expertise to support research in their homeland.
The Ukrainian Science Diaspora website serves as a hub for displaced Ukrainian scholars, showcasing their areas of research and facilitating collaborations with researchers in Ukraine. Through networking events, workshops, and mentoring programs, the initiative seeks to strengthen ties between Ukrainian scientists around the world and foster collaboration on research projects.
As the global scientific community comes together to support Ukrainian science, grassroots organizations like Science at Risk, #ScienceForUkraine, and Ukrainian Science Diaspora are leading the charge in preserving and rebuilding the scientific community in Ukraine. By coordinating offers of support, building connections, and empowering researchers, these initiatives are paving the way for a brighter future for Ukrainian science.