Researchers of Ukrainian universities in wartime conditions: Needs, challenges and opportunities

Abstract

Against the backdrop of the ongoing war conflict between Russia and Ukraine, the article explores the needs, challenges, and opportunities that researchers affiliated with Ukrainian relocated university experienced. In the study, we investigated the impact of the war and the safety situation on the scientific activity of Ukrainian university researchers based on their geographical circumstances: those who living in occupied territories, those who had relocated to Ukrainian-controlled areas, or those who had temporarily moved abroad. We also analyzed the relationship between the unique challenges and needs faced by these researchers in light of their security predicaments and explored the extent to which they capitalized on available opportunities. The study identifies a notable decrease in scientific activity among those who temporarily moved abroad. The widespread uncertainty and instability within Ukraine due to the conflict compel researchers to seek novel avenues for resuming scientific undertakings. Overall, the study underscores the evident impact of the war on researchers' scientific activities, necessitating immediate attention and effective actions. The decline in scientific activity and projected loss of academic potential pose political consequences demanding focused strategies for supporting university researchers during wartime.