National Research Universities as High-Tech Economic Entities of Higher Technical Schools and Education Management in Russia

The article analyzes the theoretical foundations and practical mechanisms of national research universities (NRUs) as structural elements of the innovative higher education system in Russia. Particular attention is paid to the role of NRUs in building a knowledge economy as institutions that combine the generation of scientific knowledge, its applied use, and training of professional personnel. Based on an analysis of the process of establishing a network of NRUs in the Russian Federation, we present the results of state policy in this field: geographical structure, performance indicators, and the contribution of universities to the development of regional innovation infrastructure. Practical significance of the study lies in synthesis and systematization of the experience of building NRUs as an institutional model aimed at increasing the effectiveness of interaction between science, education, and the economy, as well as strengthening the competitive position of Russian higher education.