NEWS

Biomedicine to Be Developed at the ‘Phystech Valley’

Russian Prime Minister Mikhail Mishustin has signed a decree establishing the ‘Phystech Valley’ Innovation Science and Technology Center (ISTC). The new center, covering 172,000 square meters, will be built in Dolgoprudny, a town near Moscow. One of the center’s key focus areas will be the development of biomedical technologies, genetics, and genomic engineering. According to the government, this decision will support ongoing efforts to strengthen Russia’s scientific base and create modern infrastructure. By 2039, the project is expected to create over 6,300 jobs.

To date, around 20 organizations have expressed interest in participating in the project. Among them are companies planning to manufacture innovative treatments at the site for the prevention and treatment of progressive myopia.

According to Deputy Prime Minister Dmitry Chernyshenko, there are currently 12 Innovation Science and Technology Centers operating in Russia. ‘Phystech Valley’ is set to become the 13th. Phystech already has the scientific foundation and extensive experience necessary to fulfill the task at hand. It is expected that residents of the Valley will receive certain customs and tax benefits.

The Russian biotechnology market is growing rapidly. Forecasts suggest it could double by 2033. In this context, training qualified specialists is becoming especially critical. On top of this, experts estimate the current workforce shortage at 300,000 professionals. The Sirius University of Science and Technology is launching the first Trained Specialist degree program for gene engineers, cell technologists, and designers of living systems. This full-time, tuition-free five-year program is designed to support a structural transition to these new professions.