Meeting with Representatives of the Ionosphere Institute: New Opportunities for Young Scientists. SDG 8 and SDG 9

On March 14, 2025, a meeting with representatives of the Ionosphere Institute took place in Room 330 of the Faculty of Physics and Technology at Al-Farabi Kazakh National University. The event was attended by final-year undergraduate students, first- and second-year master's students, and doctoral students from the first to third years.

During the meeting, representatives of the Ionosphere Institute provided detailed information about the institute's key scientific activities, prospects for cooperation, opportunities for internships, and employment. Participants learned about current research projects in which young scientists could participate, as well as current job vacancies for specialists in technical and natural sciences.

After the main part of the event, individual interviews were conducted, allowing students and graduates to discuss potential career prospects.

About the Ionosphere Institute

The Ionosphere Institute is a leading research center in Kazakhstan specializing in:

• The ionosphere and Earth's magnetosphere;
• Space weather and its impact on satellite systems;
• Radiation belts and their interaction with solar wind;
• Geophysical phenomena and their effects on communication and navigation.

The institute has a modern research base and collaborates with leading international scientific centers, making it an attractive platform for young professionals.

Opportunities for Students and Young Scientists

During the meeting, participants received information about:

• Opportunities for internships and practical training;
• Current research projects;
• Job openings for young scientists and graduates;
• International cooperation opportunities in space research.

Future Initiatives and Cooperation

Representatives of the Ionosphere Institute highlighted the shortage of specialists in the scientific field and invited students to collaborate on research projects, including those in astronomy. An important step in strengthening this partnership will be the Summer School, scheduled for August 18–22, 2025. Additionally, promising areas for joint research were identified, including the study of physical processes in microgravity conditions and the implementation of pre-flight programs.

Achieving Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)

The meeting contributed to the implementation of several United Nations Sustainable Development Goals:

• SDG 8 – Decent Work and Economic Growth: discussions on career opportunities and available job positions help young scientists develop their professional potential.
• SDG 9 – Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure: cooperation with the Ionosphere Institute opens new horizons for scientific research and technological innovation.

This meeting provided students and young scientists with an opportunity not only to explore career growth possibilities but also to establish connections with leading experts in the field of ionospheric and space research.