On 1 November 2024, the College of Dubna State University held a meeting between students and the Scientific Leader of the Laboratory of Nuclear Reactions of the Joint Institute for Nuclear Research, Academician of the Russian Academy of Sciences Yuri T. Oganessian. The event, initiated by the College Acting Director Yulia Kochneva and Professor Andrey Samsonov, provided students with a unique opportunity to not only get acquainted with the outstanding world-renowned scientist, but also ask questions concerning both education and scientific career prospects.

At the suggestion of Yuri T. Oganessian, the meeting was held as an open conversation with questions and answers. In his welcome remarks, he stressed the importance of continuing education, noting that human intelligence is determined by knowledge. He wished the students to absorb as much knowledge as possible, since there will be less and less time for learning with age. Concluding his speech, Academician Oganessian addressed the students with a parting advice: “Be highly attentive. Don’t miss what you mustn’t miss.”

During the conversation, Yuri Oganessian spoke about the employment opportunities for college graduates at the Joint Institute for Nuclear Research. He quoted a JINR founder Georgy Flerov: “Dubna is in desperate need for a school of laboratory assistants.” According to the Academician, implementing scientific ideas and innovations in laboratories and manufacture is impossible without highly qualified specialists, often including vocational graduates.

In addition, he shared the idea of holding a separate meeting with the Head of the JINR Personnel Office Sergey Bobrov for students to get more details about Institute’s vacancies and discuss issues related to the in-demand jobs, work characteristics, opportunities for professional growth, salaries, and further education prospects.

At the end of the event, Yuri T. Oganessian expressed his willingness to help organize such informal meetings between students and heads of the Offices and Departments of the Joint Institute in various formats. “I stick to the motto: always support the youth,” the Academician emphasised.