Vladimir Bogatyrev, Rector of Samara National Research University, and Leonid Mikhailenko, Acting General Director of the “Progress” Rocket Space Centre JSC (JSC "RCC" Progress"), have signed a three-year agreement on scientific and technical cooperation between the university and the enterprise.
Under the agreement, a detailed 2026 Roadmap has been developed, outlining specific joint activities and assigning responsible parties for their implementation. A key focus is placed on deepening students’ understanding of JSC "RCC" Progress" and providing them with opportunities to tackle real-world challenges in rocket and space engineering.
Conversely, the agreement also expands avenues for enterprise specialists to engage with the university’s academic and research ecosystem and contribute directly to the training of future engineers.
The Roadmap includes:
· organizing student internships and practical training at the enterprise;
· involving students in cutting-edge innovation projects;
· hosting open lectures by leading JSC "RCC" Progress" experts;
· awarding corporate scholarships to high-achieving students engaged in JSC "RCC" Progress" initiatives;
· enhanced career guidance, employment support, and professional development pathways.
This builds upon decades of established collaboration between Samara University and JSC "RCC" Progress", during which proven formats of interaction have taken root—and will now be further refined and expanded.
These include:
· Joint execution of research and experimental design projects;
· Co-participation in federal and regional programs for science and technology development, as well as in competitions and exhibitions showcasing high-tech innovations;
· Collaborative development and delivery of educational curricula and professional development programs for faculty and industry specialists;
· Active involvement of JSC "RCC" Progress" engineers in State Examination Boards overseeing graduate thesis defenses.
These efforts are designed to attract the most talented young professionals to the space sector, elevate the qualifications of both academic staff and industry experts, enhance the quality of specialist training, enrich student life, and foster bold new joint initiatives—continuing the legacy of successful collaborations such as the “PION”, “AIST” (first series), and “AIST-2D” satellites.
