Russia's Student Expedition Program Greenlights 35 Regional Research Projects for 2026
The first competitive selection for the Rediscovering Russia student expedition program has now wrapped up. Over 200 applications poured in from universities and organisations across the country, with 35 regional projects securing approval for 2026.
The initiative offers young researchers the chance to tackle real-world challenges in fields like culture, urban planning, and ecology—all while exploring Russia's diverse regions.
A total of 225 applications were submitted by 93 universities and more than 60 organisations. After review, 35 regional projects were greenlit, involving 11 universities and 23 partner groups. Winning teams will receive full funding for travel, accommodation, meals, and expert guidance throughout their expeditions.
The program covers a broad spectrum of disciplines, from social services and education to technology and environmental studies. Among the selected projects is the Nizhny Novgorod Region's 'Developing a Creative Tourism Guide for the Filigree Kingdom Creative Industries Cluster'. This reflects a wider trend, as culture, urban planning, and education emerged as the most popular themes in the proposals.
Participants will fan out across 28 Russian regions, with particular focus on three key areas: Siberia, the Far East, and the Caucasus. The Arkhangelsk, Irkutsk, and Sverdlovsk regions topped the list as the most sought-after destinations.
Applications for the first expeditions are now open to students aged 18 to 35. The program aims to bridge academic skills with hands-on experience, letting young professionals contribute to regional development through fieldwork and research.
The 2026 expeditions will see teams deploy to 28 regions, backed by full logistical and methodological support. With projects spanning culture, technology, and ecology, the program connects student expertise to local challenges. The next phase begins as selected participants prepare for fieldwork in some of Russia's most dynamic areas.
