Research Funding and Grant Opportunities: New Directions for Young Researchers

On 29 October 2026, an event entitled “Research Funding and Grant Opportunities” was successfully held with student advisee groups at the Faculty of Chemistry and Chemical Technology of Al-Farabi Kazakh National University. The meeting was organized and led by A. B. Rakhym, PhD, Assistant Professor and Academic Adviser at the Department of Physical Chemistry, Catalysis and Petrochemistry.

The event aimed to introduce students to research funding opportunities, raise their awareness of grant support, and encourage their involvement in research and project activities.

The meeting covered the main sources of research funding in Kazakhstan, opportunities to participate in grant competitions, and support programs for young researchers. Students were introduced to the general principles of preparing project proposals, explaining the relevance of a study, defining its aims and objectives, and presenting expected outcomes.

Particular attention was paid to turning a research idea into a project: formulating a research problem, identifying a suitable funding call, and aligning the proposed idea with the funding organization’s requirements. The discussion also addressed building a research team, planning project stages, and justifying the resources required.

Another important topic was the role of research collaboration in the development of young professionals. Participation in research projects enables students to apply theoretical knowledge in practice, gain teamwork experience, develop academic communication skills, and lay the foundations for a future research career.

The event contributes to Sustainable Development Goal 4, “Quality Education,” by developing students’ research competencies and expanding their opportunities for professional growth. Introducing students to mechanisms for funding research and supporting innovative ideas also aligns with Sustainable Development Goal 9, “Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure,” particularly its focus on strengthening scientific research and technological capabilities.

The meeting helped students gain a clearer understanding of the path from a research idea to a funding proposal and recognize opportunities to become involved in the university’s research activities.

Faculty members in charge: A.B. Rakhym, Ye.Zh. Ussipbekova