This article analyzes work activities and tendencies of the scientific centers of the National Academy of Sciences of Ukraine from 1991 to 2014. The chronological framework covers the period from the foundation of the Ukrainian independent state to the beginning of a brutal political crisis followed by a full-scale war. The theoretical and methodological basis of the research are conducted upon the principles of objective historicism and system analysis. The research methodology also includes an analysis of documents and literature related to the activities of research centers.

Highlights the general trends in the development and activity of scientific centers of the National Academy of Sciences of Ukraine during the time of the independence of Ukraine until 2014. Thanks to the application of historical and scientific analysis, the main trends in the activity of scientific centers of Ukraine in the first one and a half decades of their existence were highlighted. It has been determined that the attainment of independence and the transition of the country’s economy to market principles contributed to corresponding changes not only in the status but also in the operational trends of scientific centers. Significant attention in their activities was devoted to the development of the scientific potential of respective regions, the integration of scientific and educational spheres, engagement with young researchers, the promotion of science, and educational initiatives. It has been proven that the main goal of the scientific centers during the period of independence was to interact with regional governing bodies to provide scientific solutions to current problems in the economic development of Ukraine. The expansion of international cooperation among scientific centers has been demonstrated. It has been determined that during this period, a decline in the prestige of the scientist’s status was observed due to inadequate funding of scientific institutions. The losses suffered by Ukrainian science in connection with the annexation of Crimea and the loss of the Crimean Scientific Center have been analyzed. It has been established that scientific centers, as a form of scientific organization in Ukraine, have proven to be both viable and promising. The necessity of studying further experience and the results of the activities of scientific centers as an essential structure within the functioning system of the National Academy of Sciences has been highlighted.

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