SPIEF-2022: The Tambov Region and Derzhavin Tambov State University become the participants in the Mendeleev Research and Educational Cluster programme at St Petersburg University

One of the main goals of St Petersburg University as a leading classical university is related to increasing global competitiveness of the university education in Russia as well as expanding the input of the Russian academic school in achieving the results determined by the national priorities of technical, social and economic development of the Russian regions. Since 2020, the University has therefore been implementing the programme of promoting regional development — the Mendeleev Research and Educational Cluster.

Today, the partners and participants in the Mendeleev programme are 18 subjects of Russia including nine leading regional universities as well as national research and federal universities. Joint potential of the cluster allows for the development of road maps and scientific and technical projects in dialogue with local executive authorities. At present, St Petersburg University has fruitful sustainable relations with many regions including the Republic of Karelia, Perm Krai, the Republic of Sakha (Yakutia), and the Ivanov Region to name just a few.

We provide access to our unique academic, expert and scientific resources, research infrastructure and digital possibilities helping every interested region to reach their sustainable development goals. It is the consolidation of efforts and unique experience of every partner in the Mendeleev Cluster that allows for fast and effective solution of the research and development tasks in the entire country.

Elena Chernova, Senior Vice Rector of St Petersburg University

The signed agreement was a continuation of a large-scale work of the University in implementing network cooperation with the regions of Russia. It implies: training specialists in the interests of the Tambov Region; creating an effective system of continuous professional education; training research and academic staff on advanced training programmes; organising internships in the competence centres at St Petersburg University; and systematic development of research, expert and innovative activity of the cluster participants. The parties also agreed to organise joint research and practice events, Olympiads, and creative contests.

‘I believe that cooperation with the Mendeleev consortium will make our work including the work on national projects more productive. Our main task is to preserve human resources and increase the quality of people’s life. To do so, we have to manage human capital wisely, develop talent capacity and improve relevant academic programmes. It is equally important to promote research and integrate innovations into the economy of the region. All of it will be a subject of cooperation between Derzhavin Tambov State University and the consortium members,’ noted Maksim Egorov, Acting Head of the Tambov Region.

By joining one of the largest clusters, Derzhavin Tambov State University aspires to implement its competencies in network collaborations to develop human potential, provide the industry with new talents and develop innovative economy for the region.

Irina Naletova, Acting Rector of Derzhavin Tambov State University

‘This cluster unites not only academic and research organisations, but also the regions as the major customers seeking trained human resources and innovative solutions. I’m confident that working within the cluster will take us to a new level of cooperation,’ said Irina Naletova, Acting Rector of Derzhavin Tambov State University.