The programme was delivered online in English, with sessions led by faculty members from both universities. NUST MISIS was represented by members of the Department of Computer-Aided Design and Design at the College of Computer Science.

Оver five days, participants attended ten lectures and masterclasses. Faculty members from IIIT Dharwad covered topics including design for children and users with special needs, resource-efficient innovations, the development of products with extended lifecycles, and entrepreneurship.

NUST MISIS faculty members from the Department of Computer-Aided Design and Design — including Head of the Department Evgeny Korzhov, Associate Professor Igor Star, and Senior Lecturers Alisa Gron, Elena Panteleeva and Antor Mahmudul — spoke about human-centred design, UX research methods and professional portfolio development. The practical sessions also focused on creating and presenting UX case studies, professional positioning and interview preparation.

The event was part of the universities’ ongoing academic cooperation. It also supports NUST MISIS’s strategic objectives under the Priority 2030 programme, which include promoting international academic mobility among students and academic staff to enhance professional skills, exchange experience and introduce best practices in education and research.

The summit was dedicated to the philosophy of Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam, meaning “The World Is One Family”. Over the course of a week, participants explored cultures from around the world through the “7 Days — 7 Continents” programme, which featured music and art performances, as well as presentations of national traditions and cuisine. Students also took part in hackathons, dance and music competitions, and sports tournaments, and visited historical landmarks in the region.

Timur Murtazin and Semyon Kovalev introduced fellow participants to NUST MISIS and Russian culture, connected with students from different countries and gained experience in intercultural communication in an international academic environment.

The summit marked the first joint project between NUST MISIS and Chandigarh University following the renewal of their memorandum of understanding in 2026. Their Indian partners supported the students throughout the preparation process, from registration to visa arrangements.

Chandigarh University continues to rank among India’s leading private universities. In the QS Asia University Rankings 2027, it placed 104th in Asia.

One of the next areas of cooperation will be the participation of Chandigarh University students in NUST MISIS International Summer Schools. These programmes will give Indian students an opportunity to explore Russia’s academic and research environment, laying the groundwork for further academic exchanges and joint educational projects.

The main focus of the forum was the Industrial and Educational Partnership (IEP) model developed by NUST MISIS as part of a pilot project aimed at improving the higher education system. The model involves eight consecutive stages of cooperation, from developing a joint project and identifying workforce requirements to training specialists and establishing a professional alumni community. This approach enables universities and industrial companies to maintain their cooperation after educational programmes have ended, engaging graduates in the implementation of industry projects.

Professional alumni networks will be a key element of the proposed model. They will help maintain connections between specialists and universities, facilitate the exchange of experience, and encourage graduates to participate in joint industrial projects. To support this initiative, the university plans to establish an Industrial and Educational Partnership platform and an Association of MISIS Alumni in Africa.

Masamba Kah, Head of the NUST MISIS Industrial and Educational Partnership Project with African Countries, outlined three key areas for developing cooperation: training African students with opportunities for subsequent employment in industry projects, developing joint educational programmes with universities in African countries, and providing professional development opportunities for practising engineers and executives of state-owned companies.

Ghana, with its well-developed mineral resources sector and established ties with Russia, was one of the key examples discussed at the forum. Participants explored opportunities to integrate graduates of Russian universities into the operations of local companies, as well as the staffing needs of Rosatom projects across the African continent. Promising areas for cooperation include uranium mining projects in Namibia and Tanzania, rare metals production, and the mining industry.

Following the forum, the organisers plan to select the first group of African students from Russian technical universities for specialised internships. The internships are scheduled to begin in the spring semester of 2027. Universities and industrial companies are also expected to sign agreements on targeted training programmes to prepare specialists for projects across the African continent.

Aluminium is widely used in electrical engineering due to its electrical conductivity and relatively low density. However, when developing new materials for electric vehicles and electrical equipment, it is important to consider not only electrical conductivity but also mechanical strength. Components must withstand mechanical stress while retaining their ability to conduct electricity efficiently and dissipate heat.

One way to improve the properties of aluminium is to add small amounts of other metals. The challenge is to find the right combination of elements so that increased strength does not come at the cost of a significant reduction in electrical conductivity.

MISIS researchers studied aluminium-based alloys containing nickel and one of five rare earth metals: yttrium, erbium, ytterbium, gadolinium or samarium. First, they examined cast alloys — materials produced by pouring molten metal into a mould and allowing it to solidify. The samples were then heat-treated to determine how heating affects the metal’s internal structure and properties.

As the alloy solidifies, tiny particles of compounds containing nickel and rare earth metals form within the aluminium. These particles affect the alloy’s mechanical properties, while their quantity, size and distribution determine how efficiently the material conducts heat and electricity. After heating at 605–620 °C for six hours, the structure changed: the particles grew larger and their distribution became more varied.

Following heat treatment, the alloys retained good thermal conductivity while demonstrating sufficient strength. This makes them promising candidates for the further development of cast aluminium alloys, including those intended for electric transport applications.

In a second study, the researchers continued their work by investigating how rolling affects the properties of the same alloys. This metal-forming process refined the material’s microstructure. The average size of intermetallic compound particles — compounds formed by different metals within the alloy — decreased from approximately 1–1.5 to 0.8–1.2 micrometres. These changes helped strengthen the material.

“The best results were obtained with alloys containing yttrium, erbium and ytterbium. Rolling followed by heat treatment increased their strength while preserving their ability to conduct electricity. This is important for developing strong aluminium alloys for use in electrical engineering,” said Maria Glavatskikh, Associate Professor at the Department of Non-Ferrous Metals Science at NUST MISIS.

Both studies demonstrate that the properties of aluminium alloys can be deliberately modified not only by selecting the right alloying elements but also by choosing the appropriate processing methods. For cast materials, achieving a balance between strength and thermal conductivity is essential, while rolling followed by heating offers opportunities to produce stronger alloys with high electrical conductivity.

“The results could provide a basis for further development of materials for electrical conductors and electric vehicle components. At this stage, however, these are promising alloy compositions studied under laboratory conditions. Further research is needed to investigate their properties and assess the feasibility of manufacturing finished products,” said Andrey Pozdnyakov, Associate Professor at the Department of Non-Ferrous Metals Science at NUST MISIS.

The findings were published in the scientific journal Journal of Alloys and Compounds (Q1). The research was supported by the Russian Science Foundation (Project No. 22-79-10142-P).

The delegation included representatives of the university’s administration and its faculties of public and private law. The curriculum covered the following modules: “Institutional and Legal Framework of Mining Contracts”, “Economics and Finance of Mining Projects as a Basis for Negotiations”, “Negotiation Strategies and Balance of Power in International Projects”, and “Case Studies and Comprehensive Negotiation Simulation”. The programme was taught by Alexey Sergeevich Nuzhny, General and Finance Director of ESAB for Russia and the CIS, with expertise in corporate finance, investment analysis, operational efficiency, the management of international industrial companies, and the assessment of the economic implications of management and contractual decisions.

“It is important for our university to develop staff expertise in the mining sector, which plays a significant role in Mali’s economy. The programme allowed us to gain a deeper understanding of the legal and economic aspects of mining contracts and practise negotiation strategies using real-world case studies. The knowledge we have gained will be valuable in our future work on international projects,” said Lamine Traore, Head of Human Resources at Kouroukanfouga University.

Vadim Petrov, Vice-Rector for Educational Affairs at NUST MISIS, noted: “Training specialists from African universities is an important part of MISIS’s international educational activities. Programmes like this facilitate the exchange of professional expertise, promote academic mobility and help disseminate best educational practices. This work supports the objectives of the Priority 2030 programme to strengthen international cooperation in education and science.”

The Russian-African Network University aims to create a common educational space that provides equal access to educational resources for all RAFU participants across different countries. The consortium comprises 100 Russian and 68 African universities.

The entire programme was delivered in French.

— Could you tell us a little about yourself, your educational background, and your interests?

— I am from Quito, Ecuador, and have a background in Electronics and Telecommunication Engineering. I have more than five years of experience as a software engineer. I am also active in Ecuador’s tech community as a speaker and mentor. I am passionate about learning the latest software development techniques and creating innovative solutions that benefit people in my country.

— Why did you decide to pursue higher education abroad, and why did you choose Russia and NUST MISIS?

— I wanted to pursue postgraduate studies in software-related fields, as this is the area I work in. I had visited Russia several times to attend international events and enjoyed its cultural and scientific environment. I chose NUST MISIS because of the quality of its education and its strong reputation.

— How did you prepare for the Olympiad? How much time did you spend preparing, and what was your strategy?

— I gathered documents showcasing my achievements and spent about a month and a half preparing for the exam. My strategy was to review the recommended literature, solve sample problems, and use generative AI to create additional exercises and help me work through difficult questions.

— Which parts of the competition were the most challenging? How did you overcome those difficulties?

— The most challenging part was the second-stage exam, which covered a wide range of topics and included many exercises. I tackled the questions that were most similar to the ones I had practised first, leaving the most difficult ones until the end.

— What opportunities did winning the Olympiad open up for you? How did it help you pursue your goal of studying in Russia?

— Winning the Olympiad gave me the opportunity to study at NUST MISIS without paying tuition fees. Studying here has also allowed me to take part in exciting projects and events.

— What were your first impressions of Russia? Was anything different from what you had expected?

— Having visited Russia several times before, I already had some idea of what to expect. However, living here is a very different experience. There are so many activities and opportunities, and life here has turned out to be even better than I imagined.

— What advice would you give to young people in Ecuador who are considering participating in the Open Doors Olympiad but are unsure where to start?

— My advice is to build a strong portfolio by taking part in activities and events related to your chosen field. In my view, a strong portfolio accounts for about half the effort needed to succeed. The other half is preparing thoroughly for the second-stage exam. I recommend spending at least a month reviewing the recommended literature and practising a wide variety of problems.

Electrical signals play an important role in the functioning of nerve cells and tissue regeneration. Conventional electrical stimulation requires electrodes to be placed in the target area and connected to an external power source. However, this procedure is invasive, increases the risk of infection and requires additional equipment. To address this challenge, the researchers proposed using magnetoelectric nanocomposites, which can generate an electrical charge directly inside the implant when exposed to a magnetic field.

Researchers from NUST MISIS and Tomsk Polytechnic University, together with colleagues from the Shanghai Institute of Ceramics of the Chinese Academy of Sciences, used a 3D printer to fabricate a bioresorbable implant incorporating magnetoelectric nanoparticles. The device acts as a wireless converter: a magnetic field affects the nanoparticles, which generate an electrical signal through the magnetoelectric effect.

In a separate study, researchers from NUST MISIS, together with colleagues from Skoltech, ITMO University, Lomonosov Moscow State University and Dagestan State University, demonstrated new experimental approaches to measuring local electrical responses in magnetoelectric nanocomposites. They also proposed a new concept of an ultrafast thermally induced magnetoelectric effect that could be used for neurostimulation.

Detailed findings have been published in the scientific journals Journal of Magnetism and Magnetic Materials (Q2), Journal of Applied Physics (Q2), Rapid Research Letters (Q2) and ACS Nano (Q1).

“The series of studies presenting our findings is the result of many years of research into various types of magnetoelectric nanocomposites, including nanoparticles and nanofibres, as promising platforms for a wide range of applications, from neurostimulation and regenerative medicine to catalysis. These findings are scientifically significant for understanding the nature and fundamental mechanisms of the magnetoelectric effect in nanomaterials. We have high expectations for the new concept of an ultrafast magnetoelectric effect in composites based on an iron-rhodium alloy, which requires further investigation,” said Abdulkarim Amirov, Doctor of Physics and Mathematics, Head of the Research Group at the Laboratory of Functional Low-Dimensional Structures at NUST MISIS.

The research on implant development, local magnetoelectric response measurements and the thermally induced magnetoelectric effect was supported by grants from the Russian Science Foundation (Nos. 25-73-10231, 24-19-00782 and 22-73-10091-P).

— Could you tell us a little about yourself, your educational background, and your interests?

I hold a bachelor’s degree in Chemistry and have always been passionate about materials synthesis and advanced materials engineering. In my free time, I enjoy listening to music, exploring new tech trends, and playing football.

— Why did you decide to pursue higher education abroad, and why did you choose Russia and NUST MISIS?

I wanted to gain a global perspective and access world-class laboratory facilities in my field. I chose Russia because of its strong reputation in STEM, and NUST MISIS specifically because it is one of the leading universities in the country for metallurgy and materials science.

— How did you prepare for the Olympiad? How much time did you spend preparing, and what was your strategy?

I spent about two months studying topics specific to my track and reviewing core university textbooks. My strategy focused on mastering unfamiliar topics and refreshing my knowledge of familiar ones, followed by intensive practice solving problems in preparation for the exams.

— Which parts of the competition were the most challenging? How did you overcome those difficulties?

The time-limited practical problems in the second stage were the most challenging because they required highly analytical thinking under pressure. I was able to overcome these challenges thanks to my previous experience with JAMB in Nigeria, a similarly fast-paced examination that required quick thinking, working efficiently under time pressure, and prioritizing the questions I knew best before returning to the more difficult ones.

— What opportunities did winning the Olympiad open up for you? How did it help you pursue your goal of studying in Russia?

Winning the Open Doors Olympiad granted me a full tuition scholarship and made the admission process to my chosen university much easier. It completely eliminated the financial burden of tuition fees and streamlined my transition to studying in Russia.

— What were your first impressions of Russia? Was anything different from what you had expected?

I was immediately struck by the efficiency of Moscow’s transportation system and its beautiful architecture. While the winter was much colder than I had anticipated, I also noticed that the university campuses here are organized quite differently from the communal campus environment I was used to in Nigeria.

— What advice would you give to young people in Nigeria who are considering participating in the Open Doors Olympiad but are unsure where to start?

Start early by building a strong academic portfolio that includes all your achievements, publications, and certificates. Do not hesitate to apply, as the registration process is straightforward and this opportunity can completely transform your academic future.

This online academic competition offers three academic tracks for bachelor’s, master’s and doctoral studies, as well as a research track for postdoctoral researchers.

Winners and runners-up will be eligible for tuition-free education under the Russian Government quota and will be able to choose a Russian university to study at. Those who choose a degree programme taught in Russian will also be eligible to apply for grant support from the Russian Government.

Participants can complete the competition in either Russian or English.

The International Open Doors Olympiad brings together 24 participating Russian universities. NUST MISIS coordinates two bachelor’s-level subject areas: “Earth and Environmental Sciences” and “Chemistry and Materials Science.”

NUST MISIS Rector Alevtina Chernikova said: “At NUST MISIS, we welcome young people from all regions of Russia and more than 80 countries worldwide. One in five students is an international student. We train engineers and researchers capable of tackling complex scientific and industrial challenges. For six years, NUST MISIS has been a co-organiser of the International Open Doors Olympiad. Building on our priority areas — materials science, metallurgy and mining — the university coordinates the ‘Earth and Environmental Sciences’ and ‘Chemistry and Materials Science’ subject areas. This enables us to attract talented, motivated and well-prepared international applicants to the university.”

Earth and Environmental Sciences

At the 2025 Open Doors Olympiad, 27,190 participants competed in the “Earth and Environmental Sciences” subject area. A total of 250 winners and 375 runners-up were selected, while another 268 participants received recognition for outstanding performance.

Among the research fields, participants showed the greatest interest in meteorology and atmospheric sciences, environmental engineering, water resources, physical geography and environmental sciences. For master’s programmes, the most popular choices included environmental sciences, petroleum engineering and geology.

At the bachelor’s level, the most popular fields of study were “Ecology and Environmental Management,” “Geology” and “Geography.”

A total of 8,302 participants took part in the bachelor’s track in this subject area, 16% of whom completed the tasks in Russian. The competition resulted in 72 winners and 91 runners-up. When choosing their further studies, 98% of participants opted for Russian-language instruction, while 87% chose a preparatory faculty.

Chemistry and Materials Science

At the 2025 Open Doors Olympiad, 20,013 participants competed in the “Chemistry and Materials Science” subject area. A total of 55 participants were named winners and 68 runners-up, while another 103 received recognition for outstanding performance.

Participants showed interest in a wide range of research fields. At the bachelor’s level, the most popular fields of study were “Materials Science and Materials Engineering,” “Chemistry” and “Innovation Studies.”

A total of 8,357 participants took part in the bachelor’s track in this subject area, 17% of whom completed the tasks in Russian. The competition resulted in 14 winners and 22 runners-up. When choosing their further studies, 88% of participants opted for Russian-language instruction, while 74% chose a preparatory faculty.

The International Open Doors Olympiad is being held for the tenth time with the support of the Russian Ministry of Science and Higher Education.

— Could you tell us a little about yourself, your educational background, and your interests?

— My name is Soheil Seif, and I’m from Iran. I hold a master’s degree in Water Resources Engineering from a well-regarded Iranian university and have published two research articles in chemistry. Before coming to Russia, I worked as a groundwater specialist in water resources management at a major Iranian company.

— Why did you decide to pursue higher education abroad, and why did you choose Russia and NUST MISIS?

— It has always been my dream to pursue my research interests and continue my studies at a world-class university abroad. I would like to become an international scientist and collaborate with researchers from different countries. I’ve chosen Russia because it is a great country, and I feel that our cultures have certain things in common. Another advantage is its geographical proximity to Iran. Russia also has many world-class universities. I’ve decided to study at NUST MISIS because of its strong international standing in the field of mining, which is closely related to my research interests. This made the university particularly attractive to me.

— How did you prepare for the Olympiad? How much time did you spend preparing, and what was your strategy?

— I found out about the Open Doors International Olympiad online. As a PhD-track participant, I went through three stages of the competition. First, I prepared my documents and uploaded them to the website, where my portfolio was evaluated. The second stage involved an online examination. I prepared for it using the study materials provided on the official website. Finally, I had an interview with potential supervisors, during which we discussed our shared research interests. I was then selected for the programme.

— Which parts of the competition were the most challenging? How did you overcome those difficulties?

— I found the second stage of the Open Doors International Olympiad particularly challenging because I didn’t know what kinds of questions to expect. The subject area was quite broad, so I had to study a wide range of materials in preparation for the examination. However, I did my best to prepare thoroughly. My practical experience in the field also helped me answer the questions.

— What opportunities did winning the Olympiad open up for you? How did it help you pursue your goal of studying in Russia?

— The Open Doors International Olympiad helped me connect with my future academic supervisor. We are now planning to work together on research related to mining and groundwater. Another exciting aspect of my experience is that I’ve made many international friends. Everything in Moscow is new and fascinating to me. It’s a wonderful city, and I’m grateful to NUST MISIS for giving me the opportunity to study here.

— What were your first impressions of Russia? Was anything different from what you had expected?

— When I first arrived, the language barrier was one of the main challenges I faced. Since the local language is essential for everyday communication in Moscow and across much of the country, even simple daily tasks can be difficult without some basic knowledge of it. I would recommend that anyone planning to study here learn a little of the language before arriving. Even a basic level of proficiency can make everyday life much easier.

— What advice would you give to young people in Iran who are considering participating in the Open Doors Olympiad but are unsure where to start?

— I would definitely encourage students from Iran and other countries to consider studying in Russia and participating in the Open Doors International Olympiad. The Olympiad can open up valuable educational opportunities and make studying abroad more accessible financially. As far as I know, students may also be eligible for additional financial support, including grants for those with strong academic records and achievements. I believe that careful preparation is essential: students should study hard, prepare all the required documents, and follow the instructions on the official website. With dedication and thorough preparation, they can significantly improve their chances of success.

GMI sensors are used across a range of industries: in industrial applications to measure position, speed, strain and temperature; in geophysics to explore for mineral deposits and detect magnetic field anomalies; in biomedicine to detect magnetic labels and nanoparticles; and in non-destructive testing to identify microcracks and defects in structures and metals.

Researchers from MISIS University, the National Research Nuclear University MEPhI, and the Pushkov Institute of Terrestrial Magnetism, Ionosphere and Radio Wave Propagation of the Russian Academy of Sciences have extended the sensor’s operating temperature range through software-based processing of recorded data. A miniature temperature sensor is placed next to the magnetic sensor. A dedicated algorithm analyzes the temperature and automatically adjusts the measurement results to compensate for the effects of heating and cooling. The proposed mathematical model automatically corrects temperature-related errors, maintaining measurement accuracy across a broad industrial temperature range of −50°C to +80°C.

“The proposed solution relies on additional information about changes in ambient temperature and data showing how the GMI sensor’s readings vary as it heats up or cools down. Each device is first calibrated to determine exactly how temperature affects its performance. During subsequent measurements, the algorithm automatically accounts for these changes and corrects the results. This significantly reduces the impact of temperature-related errors on measurement accuracy,” Sergey Gudoshnikov, PhD in Physics and Mathematics, Associate Professor in the Department of Non-Ferrous Metals and Gold at MISIS University.

Without algorithmic correction, temperature changes had a substantial effect on measurement results. After the mathematical model was applied, temperature-related error decreased by more than a factor of 80, and the readings remained virtually unchanged even under significant heating. The findings have been published in the scientific journal Journal of Magnetism and Magnetic Materials (Q2).

“The proposed algorithm requires little computational power and can run even on compact microcontrollers. This makes it easier to integrate into existing measurement systems and well suited to technical applications where minimizing device size and weight is particularly important,” Vadim Tarasov, Doctor of Engineering Sciences, Head of the Department of Non-Ferrous Metals and Gold, and Director of the Center for Industrial Technology Engineering at MISIS University.

The researchers plan to extend the temperature range used for calibration. With further optimization, the method could deliver high measurement accuracy across a temperature range of −50°C to +100°C, significantly expanding the potential applications of these sensors under real-world operating conditions.

The research was carried out as part of the development program for MISIS University’s Engineering Technology Center, focusing on priority areas of scientific and technological development (Agreement No. 075-15-2025-570), and the Russian Ministry of Science and Higher Education’s Priority 2030 program.

The potential applications of photonic chips are wide-ranging. They include optical processors for accelerating matrix multiplication—the core operation behind neural network training and inference; rapid disease diagnostics based on spectral light analysis; ultra-high-speed data transmission through optical fiber; compact solid-state LiDAR systems for autonomous vehicles; quantum key generation and distribution for secure quantum communications; and highly accurate optical sensors for industry, environmental monitoring, and agriculture.

“To control light on a chip, we studied phase-change materials that can switch their state under short laser pulses. Depending on the state, the material has either an ordered crystalline structure or a disordered amorphous structure, with dramatically different refractive indices. After laser exposure, the material retains its new state, making it suitable for information storage,” Grigory Goltsman, Doctor of Physical and Mathematical Sciences, Chief Research Fellow at the NTI Quantum Communications Competence Center at MISIS University.

Researchers from MISIS University, MIET, MPSU, Technological Center R&D Company, HSE University, and the Russian Quantum Center compared five compositions based on different germanium-antimony-tellurium semiconductor compounds and identified the most promising candidates. All materials were deposited onto identical silicon nitride waveguides—the structures that guide light through a chip. This approach made it possible to compare the intrinsic properties of the materials without changing the device design itself. The key factors were how strongly each material altered light transmission and how quickly it could switch between states. The detailed findings were published in the journal Materials Science in Semiconductor Processing (Q1).

“The results could change if waveguides made from other materials, such as silicon-on-insulator, or laser pulses with different wavelengths are used, so each material requires additional optimization. Our findings show that a material’s composition directly determines how well it performs for on-chip light control. At the same time, no single parameter is enough—you have to consider the signal modulation, switching speed, and the size of the material cell on a silicon nitride waveguide,” Alexey Prokhodtsov, Research Engineer at the Photonic Gas Sensors Laboratory at MISIS University.

The study could provide the foundation for developing photonic devices with non-volatile memory—systems that retain stored information without a continuous power supply.

“In the future, these technologies could be used in photonic computing and devices capable of storing and processing information with light. Before practical deployment, however, the selected materials must still be tested for durability, operational stability, and long-term state retention. This research is being carried out as part of MISIS University’s strategic technology project Quantum Internet under Russia’s Priority 2030 program,” Alexey Nevzorov, Candidate of Physical and Mathematical Sciences, Research Fellow at the NTI Quantum Communications Center at MISIS University, Priority 2030 postdoctoral researcher.

The research was supported by the Russian Science Foundation (Project No. 23-79-00056) and the Russian Ministry of Science and Higher Education (Projects No. FSME-2025-0002 and No. FSMR-2024-0004).

Permeability indicates how easily gas or liquid can flow through rock. This parameter is particularly important for coal seams, as it determines how effectively methane can be removed before mining begins and during extraction. Inaccurate permeability estimates can reduce degassing efficiency and increase the risk of hazardous gas-dynamic events in mines.

However, a coal seam cannot be treated as a uniform material. It contains pores and a network of natural fractures known as cleats. Gas flows primarily through these fractures. As the stress acting on the coal increases, the fractures may close, reducing permeability. When the load decreases, they may open again. Coal is also affected by its interaction with gas: during gas adsorption, the coal matrix swells, while desorption causes it to shrink.

To determine how these processes should be accounted for in calculations, researchers from NUST MISIS, together with experts from the Geophysical Center of the Russian Academy of Sciences and SUEK-Kuzbass JSC, examined five existing permeability models. Some primarily account for the compression of pore spaces and fractures, while others consider changes in coal properties during gas adsorption and desorption, porosity, or the mechanical characteristics of the rock.

“There is no universal model that is equally suitable for all coal seams. The choice should depend on the depth of the seam, the range of applied loads, the structure of the fracture network, the gas content of the coal, and the nature of its deformation. This approach makes it possible to account for the actual characteristics of a specific rock mass rather than applying the same relationship under different conditions,” said Konstantin Kolikov, Head of the Department of Mining Safety and Environmental Engineering at NUST MISIS.

To compare the models, the researchers carried out a series of numerical simulations. They examined effective stresses ranging from 0 to 50 MPa and depths of up to 1,500 metres. They also assessed the sensitivity of the models to changes in key parameters, including porosity and deformation caused by interactions between coal and gas.

The results showed a consistent trend: coal seam permeability decreases nonlinearly as the load increases. In the simulations, the most pronounced decline occurred at effective stresses of approximately 5–15 MPa, when natural coal fractures close actively. At depths exceeding 1,000 metres, changes in permeability become less pronounced as the deformation potential of the fracture network gradually diminishes.

The researchers found that the Seidle model is best suited to situations in which sorption-induced coal deformation needs to be taken into account. The Palmer—Mansoori approach can be applied to deep seams where changes in porosity are significant, while the Karkashadze—Khoutiev model makes it possible to account for the influence of the rock mass’s elastic properties. The findings are described in the journal Mining Science and Technology (Q1).

The results can be used to develop 3D models of coal deposits for assessing degassing efficiency, predicting gas behaviour within coal seams, and selecting drainage well parameters. According to the authors, choosing the appropriate model can reduce uncertainty when designing degassing systems and help engineers make better-informed decisions about the placement and operation of degassing wells.

The study was supported by the Russian Science Foundation (Project No. 23-19-00398).

Muons are elementary particles produced in the upper layers of Earth’s atmosphere through interactions with cosmic rays. They can travel through substantial thicknesses of matter. The density of a material affects the proportion of muons that pass through an object: the denser a section is, the more strongly it attenuates the particle flux. By detecting muons, researchers can obtain information about the internal structure of various objects. Scientists at NUST MISIS propose applying this principle to diagnose distillation columns — large industrial installations used to separate crude oil into individual fractions. Unlike conventional gamma scanning of distillation columns, muography requires neither radioactive sources nor production shutdowns.

“To inspect equipment using muography, we install autonomous detectors on the outside of the columns. These detectors consist of nuclear emulsion plates. During the exposure period, the detectors record muons passing through the equipment. The plates are then developed and scanned, and the resulting data are processed using specialized software. By analyzing the distribution of detected particles, we can reconstruct the object’s internal structure and assess the condition of the column’s internal contact devices,” said Natalia Polukhina, Doctor of Physics and Mathematics and Lead Expert at the MegaScience Infrastructure Collaboration and Partnership Center at NUST MISIS.

The researchers have developed the detector design, measurement procedures, and software tools for processing the collected data. At the next stage, the team plans to create a complete solution for the regular monitoring of industrial equipment and launch a diagnostic service for oil refineries based on this technology. The service will cover measurements, data processing, and the preparation of assessment reports. Client-facing software is also being developed to enable customers to submit requests, track inspection work, and maintain records of previous measurements.

“Emulsion detectors require neither an external power supply nor an artificial radiation source, and all components of the detector system are manufactured in Russia. Once a sufficient volume of data has been collected and processed, the customer receives the inspection results and a diagnostic report. Muography can help identify signs of stagnant zones and mechanical defects in distillation columns. This information can be used by a facility’s technical teams to assess equipment condition and determine whether maintenance or repairs are needed,” said Yulia Krasilnikova, project lead and Head of the Research Administration at NUST MISIS.

The proprietary technology builds on years of research by specialists from NUST MISIS and the P. N. Lebedev Physical Institute of the Russian Academy of Sciences (LPI RAS). Previously, the researchers used muography to study cultural heritage sites, investigate the internal structure of large industrial facilities, and address challenges in petroleum geology. In 2025, a joint team from NUST MISIS and LPI RAS, working with specialists from Tatneft, delineated a section of a bituminous sandstone deposit in the Republic of Tatarstan. The experience gained provided a foundation for further adapting the method to industrial equipment. Applying the technology at the operating Moscow Oil Refinery marked one of the team’s first projects at industrial facilities.

Alevtina Chernikova, Rector of NUST MISIS, said: “The launch of the Master’s program jointly delivered by NUST MISIS and the University of Electronic Science and Technology of China took place as part of the Cross Years of Education between the two countries, announced by Russian President Vladimir Putin and Chinese President Xi Jinping for 2026 and 2027. The program will train engineers and researchers capable of addressing complex challenges in modern materials science. Graduates will receive a degree from one of Russia’s leading technological universities, whose diploma is recognized as a mark of quality in many countries around the world.”

The NUST MISIS delegation at the ceremony was led by Andrey Voronin, Vice-Rector for Academic Affairs. He noted that cooperation with the Chinese university supports NUST MISIS’s objectives under the Priority 2030 program, which include promoting international academic mobility for students and academic staff to enhance professional qualifications, exchange expertise, and adopt best practices in education and research.

Olga Kim, Advisor to the Rector’s Office for International Affairs, addressed the students with welcoming remarks. Alexey Solonin, Head of the Department of Non-Ferrous Metals Science, presented NUST MISIS student ID cards to the 37 students in the program’s first cohort.

Representing UESTC, Vice-Rector Luo Guangchun, Niu Xiaobin, Dean of the School of Materials and Energy, and Chen Junsong, a member of the university’s academic staff, welcomed the participants. Deng Jing spoke on behalf of the program’s first cohort.

Following the ceremony, representatives of NUST MISIS and UESTC held a working meeting to discuss the further implementation of the joint program. The parties discussed the organization of the educational process, preparation of the class schedule for the spring semester of 2027, requirements for Master’s theses, and admissions arrangements for the next cohort in 2027.

Bone defects can occur following severe fractures, diseases, or surgical procedures. When the damaged area is extensive, the body’s natural regenerative capacity may not be sufficient to restore it fully. In such cases, doctors use osteoplastic materials — specialized substitutes that fill the defect and create conditions for new bone tissue to form.

One of the most widely used materials in this field is hydroxyapatite. Its composition closely resembles the mineral component of bone, making it a suitable basis for biomaterials. However, existing materials have several limitations, including insufficient mechanical strength, low porosity, and slow dissolution rates. Another challenge is the lack of antibacterial activity, which is particularly important when treating areas at risk of infection. In addition, manufacturing some materials requires considerable time and energy.

Scientists at NUST MISIS have proposed addressing these challenges with granules in which some of the ions that form the crystal structure of hydroxyapatite are replaced with strontium and silver ions. This modification makes it possible to influence several material properties simultaneously.

“Silver is known for its antibacterial properties, but excessive amounts can harm not only bacteria but also the body’s own cells. It is therefore essential to determine the right concentration of silver to achieve the desired antibacterial effect without damaging healthy tissue. Strontium, in turn, is a trace element found in bone tissue and plays an important role in osteogenesis. By combining these two elements in the new material, we aim to achieve antibacterial activity while improving osseointegration — the ability of a material to interact with bone tissue and become integrated into it,” said Ekaterina Chikanova, PhD in Chemistry and Associate Professor at the Department of General and Inorganic Chemistry at NUST MISIS.

The granules are more than just hydroxyapatite powder: they are a material with a defined structure that allows its properties to be controlled. By adjusting the composition and production conditions, researchers can regulate porosity, mechanical strength, and the rate of dissolution in the body. Laboratory tests have shown that the material dissolves over a period of at least three weeks.

The porous structure allows fluids to penetrate the material and interact with cells, while the granules retain sufficient strength and effectively fill bone defects. This makes it possible to combine several essential characteristics in a single material: strength, porosity, and controlled resorption. The production process is also relatively simple. The researchers are optimizing the composition and drying conditions to ensure consistent material properties and enable production to be scaled up. The research findings have been published in the scientific journal Inorganic Materials.

“The development is intended for use in traumatology, orthopedics, maxillofacial surgery, and dentistry. The next stage of the project involves producing a prototype of the granular material and further evaluating its properties,” said Kirill Kucheryaev, co-author of the development and a postgraduate student at the Department of Functional Nanosystems and High-Temperature Materials at the NUST MISIS College of New Materials.

According to Alevtina Chernikova, Rector of NUST MISIS, the university’s researchers are shaping a relevant scientific and educational agenda in biomedicine under the national Priority 2030 program. They are developing materials and technologies designed to improve the quality of life for millions of people and accelerate treatment in complex medical cases.

In the future, the technology could provide a basis for domestic production of osteoplastic materials with controlled properties. The researchers highlight several key advantages of the development, including low production costs, scalability, a controlled resorption rate, antibacterial properties, and the potential to accelerate osseointegration.