Nazarbayev University (NU) has hosted the Annual Youth Chemistry Conference (YCHEM 2026), a fully student-led initiative that continues to unite emerging scientists from across Kazakhstan.
YCHEM has built a strong reputation as a platform where young researchers present their work, exchange ideas, and form meaningful academic connections. This year’s conference brought together undergraduate students from leading institutions, including Al-Farabi Kazakh National University, L.N. Gumilyov Eurasian National University, and Kazakh-British Technical University, further strengthening inter-university collaboration in the country.
“YCHEM stands out as a fully student-organized conference, where every aspect — from communications to sponsorships and program coordination — is led by students, with faculty providing guidance. Quality and preparedness of students exceeded my expectations. Both oral and poster presentations were of very high standard. I would like to thank all participants and especially the organizing committee, and sponsors”, – said Salimgerey Adilov, Assistant Professor of Chemistry and conference adviser.
The conference opened with remarks from Dr. Bjorn Birgisson, Vice Provost for Research and Innovation at NU, underscoring the university’s strong commitment to advancing research, innovation, and student-led scientific initiatives.
The program featured distinguished guest speakers, including Dr. Mannix Balanay, whose research spans materials chemistry, computational and environmental chemistry, optoelectronic materials, and heterogeneous catalysis, and Dr. Timur Atabaev, specializing in materials chemistry and nanochemistry.
The Chair of the conference, Ainur Serikkali, noted that YChem was an unforgettable experience for the entire organizing team, unlike any other event. A great deal of effort went into its preparation, and the conference successfully brought together participants from all over Kazakhstan to celebrate science and research.
Held under the theme “Next-Generation Chemistry: Integrating Theory, Synthesis, and Technology,” YCHEM 2026 explored how theoretical research and advanced technologies are converging across fields such as biochemistry, nanotechnology, and sustainable chemical engineering.
Reflecting this focus, the conference showcased a wide range of topics — from synthetic and polymer chemistry to nanotechnology, biosensing, cancer research, and sustainable materials — highlighting the growing importance of interdisciplinary approaches in addressing global scientific and environmental challenges.
Beyond presentations, YCHEM 2026 served as a dynamic networking platform, enabling students to engage directly with peers and experts, exchange perspectives, and build connections that extend beyond the classroom.
The organizers expressed their gratitude to conference supporters, including Nazarbayev University, Polpharma Santo, and the Department of Student Services, whose contributions made the event possible. For more information, visit the YCHEM 2026 website and follow @ychem2026 on Instagram.
Photos: NU Image
