Science, Technology and Innovation Management and Policy

This academic year, HSE University initiated the international online seminar series “The Dynamics of Science Diplomacy: Bridging Pragmatism and Idealism”, dedicated to the role of science in international cooperation, global development, and dialogue between countries amid technological, economic, and geopolitical challenges.

In 2024, Ikenna Mbata, from Owerri, Nigeria, enrolled on the Master’s in Science, Technology and Innovation Management and Policy at ISSEK in Moscow. After two years of studies, on June 1, 2026 he successfully defended his master’s thesis ‘The Spatial Distribution of Pharma Start-ups in Africa: An Analysis of Innovation Clusters and Policy Drivers.’ In his interview with the HSE News Service, Ikenna speaks about his research topic, the role of HSE University in shaping his skills, the importance of volunteering, and the benefits of studying in an international environment.

Dmitry Borunov graduated from the STI master’s programme in 2019. Over the five years since his graduation, Dmitry has progressed from a digital transformation consultant at IBM to the head of the business credit products team at Ozon Bank, and has been included in the Forbes “30 Under 30” list. We spoke with Dmitry about his education at HSE University, his career at major banks in the country, and, most importantly, about understanding the purpose behind it all.

On May 17, students of the Master’s Programme “Science, Technology and Innovation Management and Policy” at ISSEK HSE University took part in the HSE Inter Football Cup 2026, joining teams from different faculties and campuses for one of the university’s most international and energetic sporting events.