The Social Portrait and Professional Trajectories of Young Russian Engineers: A Prospective Study

The Institute for the History of Science and Technology of the Russian Academy of Sciences is initiating a multi-year research project commemorating the centenary of Samuel Kugel's birth in 2024. This study will examine the evolving landscape of science, technology, and innovation in Russia through the lens of the experiences of young engineers over the course of the next several years.

Samuel Kugel (1924-2015) was a prominent figure in Russian sociology, having made significant contributions to the sociology of science and higher education. His foundational work, "Young Engineers" (1971), established a new paradigm for research on engineering activities and the engineering profession in Russia. Building upon Kugel's legacy, our project will investigate the interplay between individual career trajectories, institutional frameworks, and national technological aspirations.

The research will explore how educational institutions, industry, and state policies shape the professional paths of young engineers, focusing on their involvement in high-tech projects critical for national technological sovereignty. The objective of this study is to employ a methodology that integrates empirical data collection, historical analysis, and policy evaluation in order to conduct an in-depth analysis of the current and future ST&I systems in Russia. The present study will address several key aspects of ST&I development: the institutional coordination between academia, research centers, and industry; the impact of science and technology policies on young professionals' careers. By analyzing the challenges and opportunities facing young engineers, we aim to contribute to the broader discourse on effective support mechanisms for ST&I development in the context of national technological goals. This research not only honors Kugel's legacy but also provides insights into the contemporary and future dynamics of ST&I systems, aligning with the focus on institutions, policies, industry, and state roles in innovation.