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The Royal Society’s work with Ukraine

The Royal Society has a long history of working with researchers and institutions in Ukraine and remains committed to advancing scientific collaboration, sustaining research excellence, and supporting researchers affected by the ongoing conflict.

In March 2026, The Royal Society, University College London, and the UK Government’s Science and Technology Network convened the UK–Ukraine ResearchBridge: Accelerating Reconstruction through Science & Innovation conference. Participants showcased the impact of UK-Ukraine research and innovation partnerships and discussed how such collaborations can best support Ukraine’s sustainable recovery while strengthening mutual capabilities. Find out more

In May 2023, the Royal Society organised a conference in partnership with the Universities Policy Engagement Network, the Fund of the President of Ukraine for Education, Science and Sports, and the Embassy of Ukraine. Bringing together researchers and policymakers from the UK and Ukraine, the conference explored how research can inform Ukraine’s recovery and resilience, including economic reconstruction, regional security, and international partnerships. Find out more

Summary of recent Royal Society work with Ukraine

In March 2026, the Royal Society hosted the UK–Ukraine ResearchBridge: Accelerating Reconstruction through Science & Innovation conference.  The event brought together senior representatives from the UK and Ukraine to discuss the UK–Ukraine ResearchBridge programme, led by University College London, that supports collaboration between the two countries’ research and innovation communities and contributes to Ukraine’s recovery and reconstruction.

The Royal Society has supported ongoing efforts to assist displaced Ukrainian researchers. This has included the Researchers at Risk Fellowships, delivered by the British Academy which enable Ukrainian scientists to continue their research in safe and supportive environments.

In September 2025, Paul Nurse FRS visited Kyiv to attend the 5th Summit of First Ladies and Gentlemen, convened by the First Lady of Ukraine, Olena Zelenska. Sir Paul is also an Ambassador for Ukraine’s United 24 programme. 

In July 2024, the Royal Society convened experts from across the UK academic community along with DSIT and Research England for an expert seminar to inform Ukraine’s approach to research assessment.  The seminar was joined by a Ukrainian Deputy Minister and various other senior officials. 

In October 2024, the Royal Society, the Polish Academy of Sciences, and the National Academy of Sciences of Ukraine convened a trilateral meeting on the mathematical sciences in Warsaw. The two-day event brought together leading researchers from all three countries to exchange knowledge, strengthen scientific links, and explore opportunities for future collaboration.

In May 2023, in partnership with Research England, UUK International, and the Universities Policy Engagement Network, the Royal Society convened the “Ukraine’s recovery: rebuilding with research” conference which brought together about 150 practitioners, including a sizable Ministerial delegation from Kyiv to discuss the role research could play in rebuilding Ukraine. 

Shortly after Russia’s full-scale invasion, the Society joined six other Academies, including the National Academy of Sciences of Ukraine to agree a 10-point action plan for rebuilding Ukraine’s Science, Research and Innovation system. 

The Royal Society committed £500,000 over three years to the long-term support programme, an $8million support scheme run by the Polish Academy of Sciences funding cross-border research teams working in both Poland and Ukraine. The programme has supported 18 teams to-date, each receiving around $200,000 per year for up to three years.