Effective and feasible mechanisms to support Ukrainian researchers and students at risk: opportunities, challenges and pitfalls

Since February 24, 2022, invasion of Ukraine by Russia has affected the entire population of Ukraine, including the scientific community. The attack by Russian forces has resulted in the destruction of infrastructure of Ukrainian cities, including universities, research centers, and educational institutions. Millions of people, including educators and scientists, have been displaced from their homes, their futures uncertain. This conflict is unfolding in a country with a large and diverse scientific community and a rich history of higher education and scientific research. The global research community has provided effective and timely response by offering research opportunities and fellowships for displaced Ukrainian academic faculty and students. However, many of these opportunities were primarily targeted to individuals capable of leaving the country. Many Ukrainian scholars remaining in the country need the help of the international community to help find short- or long-term employment. Moving forward, we hope to increase collaboration, provision of training provided by educational organizations worldwide, and spur rapid advancements in science and technology that will lead and expedite the postwar reconstruction of Ukraine.