Building Research Capacity at Universities: Insights from Post-Soviet Countries

This edited volume explores how universities in post-Soviet countries have developed research capacity since the early 1990s, drawing on empirical case studies from a common history and policy context. It examines national and institutional resources, political will, and individual agency to understand how these influences have shaped universities' motivation, expertise, and opportunities for research.

Format: Hardback
Length: 333 pages
Publication date: 12 October 2022
Publisher: Springer International Publishing AG

This edited volume represents a significant contribution to the ongoing discussions surrounding the development of university research capacity. The chapters within this volume present empirical case studies from post-Soviet countries, sharing a common historical background, policies, and practices in higher education. These shared characteristics lend meaning and analytical validity to the regional focus. Simultaneously, the case studies showcase divergences from the Soviet tradition, offering historical, sociological, and political analyses of how universities in former Soviet countries internalized their research mission and cultivated the capacity to fulfill it. This volume stands as the inaugural exploration of national and institutional resources, political will, and individual agency in understanding how they have influenced universities' motivation, expertise, and opportunities for research since the early 1990s, as well as the ways in which universities have adapted their structures and practices in response to these influences. The book is intended to appeal to students and scholars across the fields of education, sociology, political science, and economics.

Introduction:
The development of university research capacity is a crucial aspect of higher education institutions, as it plays a vital role in advancing knowledge, innovation, and societal progress. In recent years, there has been a growing interest in understanding the factors that influence universities' motivation, expertise, and opportunities for research. This edited volume aims to contribute to this ongoing debate by presenting empirical case studies from post-Soviet countries, which share a common historical background, policies, and practices in higher education.

Commonalities and Divergences:
The chapters in this volume offer valuable insights into the commonalities and divergences between universities in post-Soviet countries. Despite their shared history and policies, these countries have experienced distinct paths in developing their research capacity. The case studies demonstrate how universities have internalized their research mission and developed the capacity to carry out this mission in different ways. Some universities have prioritized research and invested in infrastructure and resources, while others have faced challenges in maintaining research quality and relevance.

National and Institutional Resources:
One of the key factors that have influenced universities' research capacity is the availability of national and institutional resources. The chapters explore how governments, universities, and research institutions have supported and promoted research in these countries. They examine the role of government policies, funding mechanisms, and research infrastructure in fostering research excellence. The authors also highlight the challenges faced by universities in accessing and utilizing these resources, such as bureaucratic procedures, limited funding, and competition for resources.

Political Will and Individual Agency:
Political will and individual agency are also crucial in shaping universities' research capacity. The chapters examine how political leaders, university administrators, and researchers have influenced the development of research policies and practices. They explore the role of university autonomy, academic freedom, and incentives for research in promoting research excellence. The authors also discuss the challenges faced by researchers in navigating political and institutional constraints, such as censorship, surveillance, and pressure to conform to certain ideological norms.

Structural and Practice Changes:
The development of university research capacity has led to significant structural and practice changes in these countries. The chapters explore how universities have adapted their structures and practices to facilitate research excellence. They examine the role of research centers, institutes, and laboratories in promoting interdisciplinary research and collaboration. The authors also highlight the challenges faced by universities in implementing these changes, such as resistance from faculty members, limited resources, and bureaucratic hurdles.

Conclusion:
In conclusion, this edited volume represents a collective contribution to the current debates on developing university research capacity. The chapters offer valuable insights into the commonalities and divergences between universities in post-Soviet countries, as well as the factors that have influenced their research capacity. The book will appeal to students and scholars in the fields of education, sociology, political science, and economics, as it provides a comprehensive examination of the challenges and opportunities faced by universities in pursuing research excellence.

Weight: 591g
Dimension: 210 x 148 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9783031121401
Edition number: 1st ed. 2022