Ukraine is nurturing a new wave of scientists and technologists who are applying artificial intelligence and chemistry research to solve real-world problems, from pharmaceutical development to sustainable materials. Three winners of the KSE Foundation's Talents for Ukraine program represent this emerging talent pool, each combining cutting-edge research with practical innovation in fields ranging from computer vision to medical chemistry.

Who Are the Winners and What Are They Building?

The Talents for Ukraine program supports scientists and innovators advancing research outcomes across various fields. This year's cohort includes a first-year university student developing AI applications, a medical chemistry researcher creating educational platforms, and a polymer scientist working on next-generation materials.

Mykhailo Petrikei, a first-year student at Taras Shevchenko National University of Kyiv, is working in artificial intelligence and computer vision to develop applied technological solutions. His projects span multiple domains: an AI-based waste detection system that could improve recycling efficiency, a smart diving system with object recognition and gesture control for underwater applications, and an investment platform designed to support small and medium-sized businesses across Ukraine. Petrikei has already participated in and won awards at international scientific competitions, representing Ukrainian STEM projects on the global stage.

"I have realized that an idea is worthless without implementation. It is important not just to think, but to test and act quickly," Petrikei commented.

Mykhailo Petrikei, First-Year Student at Taras Shevchenko National University of Kyiv

Marina Stasevych is a Doctor of Chemical Sciences and Professor at the Department of Technology of Biologically Active Compounds, Pharmacy and Biotechnology at Lviv Polytechnic National University. Her research focuses on medical chemistry, specifically the discovery and synthesis of new biologically active compounds using both experimental methods and computational approaches. Beyond her laboratory work, Stasevych has created an educational AI platform called AI4PharmaEdu designed to train pharmacists. The platform combines adaptive learning technology with AI assistants and practical case studies to help pharmacy professionals develop professional competencies.

"I am able to see interdisciplinary connections, transform complex scientific ideas into accessible educational products, and turn big dreams into real results," Stasevych emphasized.

Marina Stasevych, Doctor of Chemical Sciences and Professor at Lviv Polytechnic National University

Ihor Tkachenko is a Doctor of Chemical Sciences and Senior Research Fellow at the Institute of Macromolecular Chemistry of the National Academy of Sciences of Ukraine. His work centers on functional polymer chemistry, developing new materials for applications in optics, sensors, display technologies, energy systems, and biomedicine. Tkachenko's research portfolio includes fluorinated polymers, organo-inorganic hybrid systems, photosensitive materials, and ion-conducting membranes used in microelectronics, optical devices, and next-generation energy systems. His approach bridges fundamental research with applied development aimed at real-world technological implementation.

How Are These Scientists Combining AI With Materials Discovery?

• Medical Chemistry and AI Integration: Stasevych uses both experimental synthesis and in silico (computer-based) approaches to discover new biologically active compounds, demonstrating how AI tools can accelerate the drug discovery pipeline when paired with traditional chemistry methods.
• Educational AI Platforms: The creation of AI4PharmaEdu shows how machine learning can personalize professional training, adapting to individual learner needs while embedding real-world case studies into pharmaceutical education.
• Polymer Materials for Energy: Tkachenko's development of ion-conducting membranes and photosensitive polymers represents how advanced materials science can support next-generation energy storage and optical technologies, with applications in microelectronics and sustainable power systems.
• Computer Vision for Sustainability: Petrikei's AI-based waste detection system demonstrates how machine learning and computer vision can improve recycling processes and reduce environmental waste at scale.

The convergence of AI and materials science is particularly significant because it accelerates the traditionally slow process of discovering and testing new compounds. Stasevych's use of in silico methods alongside experimental work exemplifies this trend, allowing researchers to computationally screen thousands of potential compounds before synthesizing and testing the most promising candidates in the laboratory.

Why Does This Matter for Ukraine and Beyond?

The recognition of these three scientists underscores Ukraine's commitment to retaining and supporting scientific talent during a challenging period. The Talents for Ukraine program specifically aims to keep researchers and innovators engaged in advancing science within the country, rather than seeing them migrate elsewhere. Each winner represents a different facet of modern scientific innovation: Petrikei embodies the startup mentality of rapid prototyping and real-world application; Stasevych bridges academic research with professional education; and Tkachenko demonstrates how fundamental polymer chemistry can address urgent technological needs in energy and electronics.

"I appreciate the moment when, after numerous attempts and doubts, you finally achieve the desired result," Tkachenko noted.

Ihor Tkachenko, Doctor of Chemical Sciences and Senior Research Fellow at the Institute of Macromolecular Chemistry of the National Academy of Sciences of Ukraine

The intersection of AI and materials science is reshaping how researchers approach discovery. Rather than relying solely on trial-and-error experimentation, scientists can now use machine learning to predict material properties, optimize synthesis pathways, and identify promising candidates for further development. Stasevych's AI4PharmaEdu platform also highlights a broader trend: AI is not just accelerating research itself, but transforming how scientific knowledge is taught and disseminated to the next generation of professionals.

These three winners represent a broader ecosystem of Ukrainian innovation that continues to advance despite external pressures. Their work spans pharmaceutical development, sustainable materials, waste management, and business technology, demonstrating the breadth of AI and chemistry applications emerging from Ukrainian institutions and researchers.