What is it like to be a scientist during the war? How does the international scientific community, particularly the European one, support Ukrainian researchers? How will science help the post-war recovery of Ukraine? Alla Yemets, a corresponding member of the NAS of Ukraine, a member of the European Academy, head of the Department of Cell Biology and Biotechnology at the Institute of Food Biotechnology and Genomics of the NAS of Ukraine, a specialist in cell biology and molecular biotechnology, spoke about all this in an interview for the European Academy (Academia Europaea), published on the website of its Cardiff regional branch (Wales, United Kingdom).
As Alla Yemets noted, since the beginning of the full-scale Russian invasion, the European Union and other partner countries have supported not only the Ukrainian army but also the Ukrainian scientific community, in particular helping scientists who remained in their homeland to work continuously: "Solidarity from colleagues, grant institutions, and other financial organizations is of immense value to Ukrainian scientists in the most difficult time in Ukraine's history. It lifts our spirits and gives us strength and faith in the struggle. <…> The heroism of our military and the resilience of our people truly deserve respect. Many thanks to all who understand this and continue to support us."
According to the researcher, preserving scientific potential and training new personnel for the scientific field will play a crucial role in the post-war reconstruction of Ukraine and the future development of the national economy. For example, biotechnology will be decisive for the agricultural sector and healthcare, specifically for restoring the environment damaged by hostilities (primarily soils), for the sustainability of agriculture amid environmental challenges, in therapy, regenerative medicine, and the treatment of war-related psychological conditions.
"...sooner or later the war will end – and your lives, the welfare of our people, and the prosperity of our country will be in your hands,” says Alla Yemets, addressing young Ukrainian scientists building their careers in these difficult times. – There is no easy path – neither on the battlefield nor in the laboratory. Work honestly and devotedly. Dream, believe in yourself, do not fear difficulties, and remain true to yourself under any circumstances. If you fall – get up and keep going. And always remember: good will triumph over evil."
Photo: Vitaliy Ukhov