Kazakhstan eyes Russian innovation model to build homegrown science cities
Kazakh delegation visits Novosibirsk’s tech and research hubs to explore replicating Russia’s science city model back home
ASTANA, Kazakhstan (MNTV) — Senior Kazakh officials led by Deputy Prime Minister Serik Zhumangarin visited Russia’s Novosibirsk region this week to study its science and technology ecosystem, aiming to adapt similar models for Kazakhstan’s own innovation-driven development.
The visit comes after President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev’s call to explore the creation of science cities in Kazakhstan, modeled on successful international examples. Novosibirsk, home to Russia’s largest research and innovation cluster, was chosen as a case study.
The delegation included representatives from Kazakhstan’s ministries of industry, digital development, construction, science and higher education, and national economy, along with researchers and business leaders.
Novosibirsk’s research hub is centered around the Siberian Branch of the Russian Academy of Sciences (SB RAS), which includes more than 50 research institutes, Novosibirsk State University, several technology parks, and the science city of Koltsovo.
Designated a science city in 2003, Koltsovo is one of Russia’s leading biotechnology centers, housing the Vector Research Center known for developing vaccines for Ebola, Hepatitis A, and COVID-19.
During meetings with Novosibirsk Region Governor Andrey Travnikov and SB RAS Chairman Valentin Parmon, Russian officials presented what they called the “Lavrentyev Triangle” — a development model linking science, education, and industry. They credited this structure with helping turn academic research into commercial technologies.
Kazakh officials also toured the site of the Siberian Circular Photon Source (SKIF), an advanced synchrotron radiation facility under construction and slated for launch in late 2025.
Russian authorities say SKIF will place the country among global leaders in next-generation research infrastructure.
Governor Travnikov said the legacy of science-focused zones — such as academic campuses and specialized towns — remains relevant in the 21st century.
He expressed hope that Novosibirsk’s experience could assist Kazakhstan in shaping its own approach to innovation and scientific development.
Following the visit, Kazakhstan and Russian institutions agreed to deepen cooperation through expert exchanges and joint assessments to evaluate how the science city model might be adapted for Kazakh needs.
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