The Status of a Young Scientist: Between State Priority and Uncertainty

The article examines the current paradox of the uncertainty of the status of young scientists in the context of the proclaimed state strategic importance of this socio-professional group. Based on the institutional and resource approach, the specific features of the status of young scientists and its group-forming criteria are characterized. Based on a systematic analysis of both existing regulatory legal acts and draft laws proposing to streamline and consolidate the concept of a young scientist in the legal field, the limitations of the proposed definitions of the concept of “young scientist” and its status positions have been revealed. The consequences of the uncertainty of the status of young scientists are indicated. The author's conceptualization of the socio-professional and legal status of young scientists is proposed.