On the role of R&D in training personnel for the modern pharmaceutical industry in the context of digital transformation

High-tech industries, which include the domestic pharmaceutical industry, are in high demand for specialists with competencies not only in the field of synthesizing new molecules, but also in the field of digital technologies. The development of innovative types of drugs involves an interdisciplinary approach based on the use of digital systems capable of simulating biochemical processes occurring in the body. The training of modern specialists with such knowledge, skills and abilities can be carried out with greater efficiency in the case of updating existing educational programs, with an emphasis on practice orientation, mastering digital technologies, as well as the integration of research and development (R & D) into the educational process. The aim of the study is to study the attitude of students of Samara universities to involvement in R&D and the prospects for further professional activity in high-tech companies. To solve the problem, the author developed a questionnaire, with its subsequent integration into the information and digital environment of “Google Forms”. The survey was conducted anonymously among students of years 1-5. The main research methods chosen were: analytical (analysis of theoretical aspects of students’ involvement in R&D), sociological (development of a questionnaire with subsequent sociological research) and statistical (analysis of the obtained layer of primary data with subsequent interpretation). As a result of the study, the author concluded that students are insufficiently involved in R&D due to a low level of motivation, lack of time and lack of a clear understanding of the prospects and opportunities that participation in scientific research opens up. Based on the results of the work, the author formulated recommendations in the following areas: increasing students’ awareness of the opportunities and prospects for participation in R&D during the educational process; preparation and implementation of motivational programs for students; in-depth integration of R&D into the existing educational process; popularization of R&D through the opening of research clubs and associations; establishing high-quality feedback between the student and the mentor; strengthening work with partners from the real sector of the economy.