Young scientists in Yakutsk: a step into the future of neuroscience

On June 6, 2025, the young scientists’ competition was held in Yakutia. A total of 18 research works were submitted from various medical institutions and research organizations of Russia and Kazakhstan. These works were presented by researchers, scientists, physicians, postgraduate students, and clinical residents in the following fields: extrapyramidal disorders, cognitive impairment in neurodegenerative diseases, epilepsy and paroxysmal disorders, neuromuscular and cerebrovascular diseases.
The presentations sparked great interest among the participants, leading to dynamic discussions and numerous questions.
The expert jury included:
• Marina Romanovna Nodel — MD, Associate Professor, Head of the Department of Neurology and Neurosurgery, Sechenov University (Moscow), Chair of the Jury;
• Tatyana Egorovna Popova — MD, neurologist, Associate Professor, “Lotos” Medical Center (Yakutsk);
• Sargylana Afanasyevna Chugunova — MD, Associate Professor, Department of Internal Medicine and General Medical Practice (Family Medicine), NEFU Medical Institute (Yakutsk);
• Nazira Asanovna Zharkynbekova — PhD in Medicine, Professor, Head of the Department of Neurology, Psychiatry, Rehabilitology, and Neurosurgery at South Kazakhstan Medical Academy (Shymkent, Kazakhstan), Chief Neurologist of the Turkestan Regional Health Department;
• Edilia Eduardovna Konnikova — MD, Associate Professor, Department of Neurology and Psychiatry, NEFU Medical Institute (Yakutsk);
• Sardana Kononovna Kononova — PhD in Biology, Lead Researcher and Head of the Molecular Genetics Department at the Yakut Scientific Center for Complex Medical Problems (Yakutsk).

Competition Results:
• 1st Place — Anna Aleksandrovna Usoltseva, Assistant Lecturer, Department of Medical Genetics and Clinical Neurophysiology, Institute of Postgraduate Education, Krasnoyarsk State Medical University (Ministry of Health of Russia), for the report “Personalized approach to overcoming pharmacoresistance and adverse reactions of antiepileptic drugs.”
• 2nd Place — Eldar Baurzhan, neurology resident, South Kazakhstan Medical Academy (Shymkent, Kazakhstan), for the presentation “Neuromuscular diseases: diagnostic challenges and clinical observation in adult SMA.”
• 3rd Place — Elena Evgenyevna Timechko, Junior Researcher, Krasnoyarsk State Medical University, for her study “RNA-Seq analysis and machine learning approaches to identify biomarkers of alcoholism.”
Clinical and Professional Practice
A vital part of the visit included practical training.
Otari Okroadze visited the Republican Psychoneurological Dispensary in Yakutsk, where he explored the structure of psychiatric care, inpatient conditions, and the local residency training programs.
Particular interest was shown in the Psychotherapy Center, which applies innovative treatment methods such as sensory rooms, art and occupational therapy, deep relaxation techniques, and psycho-emotional correction — all aimed at comprehensive rehabilitation of patients.
Cultural Program and Knowledge Exchange
In addition to scientific and clinical activities, participants enjoyed a rich cultural program:
• A tour of the “Kingdom of Permafrost”, a unique underground ice gallery attraction;
• A master class by Professor Henry Holden on modern approaches to neuroplasticity and rehabilitation;
• A visit to the Komdragmet Treasury, showcasing rare natural resources of Yakutia;
• A tour of the Mammoth Museum, offering insight into ancient flora and fauna.