Komsomolskaya Pravda: "Putin hears about the rejuvenation of academia"
Researchers and doctors working to develop a cure for serious illnesses.
On Monday, Vladimir Putin met with Ivan Dedov, President of the Russian Academy of Medical Science. Dedov informed the prime minister that there are 250 full and 270 corresponding members and fifty two higher education institutions that are a part of the Academy.
"The academy is developing very dynamically," said Dedov. In 2013, funding will become available through targeted federal programmes and grants. Thanks to unprecedented replenishment at the Academy, it is getting markedly rejuvenated: 30% of candidates that will be elected for corresponding membership will be under 50 years old, and 30% of academicians will be under 65. The next session will be held in December.
The President of the Academy also spoke about the research part of the session, which will be devoted to diabetes. "Today diabetes is a challenge that faces global society," said Dedov. "Non-infectious illnesses, such as diabetes, cardiovascular disease, cancers, and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease are our current priority."
Vladimir Putin wanted to clarify that the experts selected to work in the Academy would be chosen based on these priority areas.
"Indeed," confirmed Dedov. "There is a need to find talented people and we currently have some intelligent 32-35 year old guys. We recommend them."
"How is your work organised along with your cooperation with the Ministry of Health?" inquired the prime minister.
"We have a productive, creative business relationship with the Ministry of Health," said Dedov.
"Did you participate in the preparation of the healthcare system modernisation programme?" asked Putin.
"Of course. In the academic community, only 28% of all academicians work in organisations associated with the Academy of Medicine. The majority work in organisations connected to the Ministry of Health," reported Dedov.
The president of the Russian Academy of Medical Science also informed the prime minister about the development of an innovative model that follows from idea, then to concept, to experimental phase at the clinic and then to applied phases to become medicine in practice. Dedov reported that regions that receive substantial funding with the aim to modernise the healthcare system are in the focus of attention.
