From Brain Drain to Brain Circulation
A united global professional community of Kazakhstani scientists can transform talent migration into a powerful engine of collaboration, innovation, and leadership — shaping the next generation of scientific and industry pioneers
TWO STRATEGIC AREAS
[1] Uniting Qazaq scientist worldwide to collaborate, innovate and mentor the next generation of scientific leaders and [2] to assist our home country by sharing knowledge, experience, and opportunities
Events we organize
By bringing together visionary scientists, academics, and industry experts, we cultivate a new generation of future scientific leaders.
Events Organized
70+
Attendance
1000+
Past events
Kuanysh Yergaliyev MD, PhD | Harvard'19 Former Vice Minister of Higher Education and Science of Kazakhstan, Member of the Board of Directors of QIST, Assistant Professor at the Nazarbayev University School of Medicine
“QIST association is more than a community - it is a platform where ideas grow, connections strengthen, and a strong Kazakh academic diaspora abroad is taking shape. As the author of the #100KZGALYM project, I clearly see how vital such initiatives are. Through QIST, we build lasting academic bridges between Kazakhstan and the world, exchange knowledge, and expand international collaboration. Being part of QIST helps me stay connected with our scientists abroad, grow my network, and promote Kazakhstan’s scientific potential globally. Researchers who return home bring not only expertise and technology, but also a modern mindset that drives the development of our national science.”
Dr Aliya Sarmanova, MD, PhD | Roche (Switzerland) Clinical Development Lead, Roche Diagnostics
"I am very glad to be part of this community as both a listener and a speaker. There have been many new and interesting connections, as well as valuable information for professional development, especially for young researchers. My deep gratitude for carrying out such an important mission - uniting and supporting the Kazakhstani scientific community both within the country and abroad!"
Olzhas Zhorayev | George Mason University (USA) PhD candidate in economic and public policy Former Deputy Head of Department at the Administration of the President of Kazakhstan
"As a former policymaker and now a researcher, I greatly value the mission of QIST. Abroad, a new generation of Kazakhstani scientists has emerged, conducting cutting-edge research and achieving significant success. It is important to actively involve them in the country’s development. QIST unites young enthusiasts who work systematically to build connections, promote collaborative projects, and create new opportunities for young researchers and for Kazakhstan. From the outset, QIST has set strong momentum for international collaboration within the Kazakh scientific diaspora. Looking ahead, I hope to see large joint research initiatives that unite our national scientific community for the advancement of the country’s science and economy."
Global Professional Network of Qazaq Scientists
The Qazaq International Science and Technology Association (QIST) is a A Global Qazaq Scientific Community of PhDs, Postdocs, Professors & Industry Experts Shaping Research, Mentorship & Impact
Guest of Honor Lecture Series
Our Services
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We offer talent and career services that help our members advance professionally and access global opportunities. We connect scientists, engineers, and innovators with job openings, internships, and research placements worldwide, while also supporting employers who seek Kazakhstani talent. Our mentorship programs provide personalized guidance on career development, CV and cover-letter preparation, and interview strategies. We run career workshops, industry panels, and networking events that expose members to diverse career paths in academia, industry, and entrepreneurship. In addition, we assist those interested in returning to Kazakhstan through information on fellowships, short-term academic appointments, and partnerships with local institutions. Together, these services build a strong talent pipeline and empower our members to pursue impactful, globally competitive careers.
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As a professional community, we offer a range of research and academic services designed to accelerate collaboration and strengthen the scientific output of our members. We connect researchers with potential collaborators, institutions, and funding partners, helping to initiate joint projects across disciplines and countries. We also provide guidance on competitive grant applications including Takeda Science Foundation, Marie Curie, NIH, and Horizon Europe along with dedicated manuscript-improvement and peer-review support to elevate publication quality. In addition, our network offers statistical and data-analysis consulting, thematic research groups, and expert feedback sessions. Together, these services create a supportive ecosystem that empowers our members to conduct higher-impact research and engage in meaningful global partnerships.
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We support entrepreneurship and innovation by helping founders, researchers, and technologists turn ideas into high-impact ventures. We organize workshops and mentoring sessions on topics such as startup formation, fundraising, intellectual property, regulatory pathways, and international market entry. Through our network, members gain access to experienced entrepreneurs, industry experts, and investors who can provide strategic guidance and connections. We also help teams prepare for accelerator programs, refine pitch decks, and navigate the global startup ecosystem. By fostering collaboration between scientists and innovators both abroad and in Kazakhstan, we create an environment where new technologies can grow, attract investment, and translate into real-world solutions.
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We provide educational services that support students, early-career researchers, and professionals navigating global academic pathways. We offer structured guidance on applying to international PhD, and postdoctoral programs, including mentoring on crafting strong statements of purpose, CVs, and scholarship applications. Through workshops, information sessions, and one-on-one advising, we help members understand admission requirements, funding opportunities, and career trajectories. Our network also connects new students abroad with experienced mentors who can provide practical advice on settling into academic life, accessing resources, and adapting to new environments. Together, these services create a clear and supportive pathway for Kazakhstani students and young scientists pursuing education and training around the world.
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We provide networking and engagement services that bring Kazakhstani scientists, professionals, and innovators together across the globe. We organize regular online meetups, thematic discussion sessions, and regional gatherings that foster meaningful connections and knowledge exchange. Our annual events and speaker series highlight leading experts from academia, industry, and the startup ecosystem, creating opportunities for collaboration and mentorship. We also maintain a vibrant digital space through our website, newsletters, and social platforms where members can share achievements, opportunities, and community updates. By creating a welcoming and active environment, we enable our members to build professional relationships, discover new collaborations, and feel connected to a global scientific network.
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We actively engage with government and policy stakeholders to help shape evidence-based decision-making and strengthen Kazakhstan’s science, technology, and innovation ecosystem. We provide expert input to ministries, universities, and national agencies on research strategy, talent development, STEM education, and innovation policy. Our members contribute to white papers, advisory boards, and strategic consultations that support long-term planning and international best practices. We also facilitate dialogue between policymakers and the global Kazakh scientific diaspora, ensuring that diverse expertise informs national priorities. Through these efforts, we aim to build constructive partnerships that accelerate Kazakhstan’s scientific development and create opportunities for researchers at home and abroad.
QIST - Bolashak Official Partnership Collaboration
Calling all PhDs, Postdocs, and Professors Abroad!
Upcoming events.
Online
December 14
December 13
Online
Online
December 7
Join our Community
Join our vibrant community at QIST, where expanding your scholarly pursuits and professional networks is not just a possibility-it's a promise! To stay up-to-date with all our events, join our mailing list by contacting us today.
The Worldwide Map of Qazaq Researchers
Explore our dynamic interactive map, pinpointing the global locations of Kazakh researchers, including PhDs, postdoctoral fellows, professors, and those who have transitioned into industry roles after completing their PhDs.