Vietnam's National Foundation for Science and Technology Development (NAFOSTED) has announced a preliminary plan to select and support young Vietnamese scientists to participate in the 6th Congress of Young Scientists in Russia in 2026.

The initiative aims to strengthen cooperation between Vietnam and Russia in science, technology and innovation, while providing young Vietnamese researchers with opportunities to engage with the international scientific community, present their research findings and establish partnerships.

The Ministry of Science and Technology is currently submitting a proposal titled "Supporting Young Vietnamese Scientists to Attend the 6th Congress of Young Scientists in Russia in 2026" to the relevant authorities for consideration and approval.

The three-day congress is scheduled to take place from December 2 to 4 in Saint Petersburg, bringing together young scientists, experts, research institutes, universities and science and technology organizations.

Notably, Vietnam has been invited to participate as the guest country of honor.

The invitation is expected to create opportunities for stronger academic exchanges, the development of highly skilled scientific and technological personnel, and new joint research initiatives between the two countries.

Six priority research areas

Under the proposed plan, up to 30 Vietnamese scientists under the age of 35 would be selected and supported to attend the congress.

Eligible candidates must be engaged in scientific research, technological development or innovation at research institutes, universities or other relevant organizations.

Applicants would need to demonstrate research capabilities and achievements, possess sufficient English or Russian proficiency for academic communication, and submit a proposed presentation for the congress.

They must also obtain approval from their employing institution or managing organization to participate.

The selection process is expected to prioritize six research areas:

Materials science and information technology
Ecology, climate and marine research
Medicine and biotechnology
Social sciences and humanities
Space technology and low Earth orbit satellite systems
Nuclear technology and atomic energy

Selected participants are expected to receive financial assistance covering economy-class round-trip airfares, transportation, accommodation, meals, insurance and other necessary expenses.

The exact support arrangements will be determined by the approved proposal and applicable regulations.

Applications expected to open in November 2026

To facilitate implementation once the proposal receives approval, NAFOSTED has encouraged research institutes, universities and science and technology organizations to begin identifying and recommending qualified young scientists.

Interested candidates are advised to prepare their academic and research profiles, supporting documents demonstrating scientific achievements, evidence of foreign language proficiency and proposed presentation topics.

They should also outline potential areas for research cooperation with Russian partners.

According to the preliminary schedule, applications are expected to be accepted during November 2026.

Specific dates will be announced after the proposal is approved by the competent authorities.

Given the short interval between the anticipated application period and the congress, early preparation is considered essential to help candidates complete the necessary procedures and submit competitive applications.

NAFOSTED emphasized that the eligibility requirements, selection criteria, application documents, implementation timeline and financial support arrangements remain provisional.

These details may be revised in accordance with the final approved proposal.

The foundation will issue an official call for applications once the necessary approval has been granted.

Research institutions, universities and interested young scientists are encouraged to monitor the official websites of the Ministry of Science and Technology and NAFOSTED for updates.

Thai Khang