One of the leading research universities in the United States, Rice University, is launching a collaboration with Ukraine in the fields of sports science, medicine, and rehabilitation. For the first time, Ukrainian sports scientists and managers will undergo internships at one of the top American universities — Rice University. The first Ukrainian specialists are set to begin their training in fall 2025.
This was reported by the Ministry of Youth and Sports of Ukraine.
An online meeting was held between the Ministry, Ukrainian sports universities, and representatives of Rice University (USA). The participants discussed opportunities for Ukrainian researchers and sports managers to intern in the U.S. to exchange knowledge and conduct joint research in the areas of athlete training, medical support, and rehabilitation. Rice University Vice President Tommy McClelland confirmed the university’s readiness to host the first Ukrainian experts in the fall of 2025.
The goal of the partnership is to implement global best practices in sports science, rehabilitation, athlete development, and the advancement of adaptive sports.
In response to an inquiry from Vilni Media, the Ministry of Youth and Sports of Ukraine confirmed that the collaboration will include a number of practical projects. These will involve the development of methodologies for functional diagnostics of athletes' physical conditions, the introduction of adaptive games in the rehabilitation of both athletes and individuals with injuries, including military personnel.
The partnership also envisions the creation of selection criteria for athletes across various sports, taking into account gender, age, and physiological characteristics, as well as research into the training needs of women and veteran athletes. Another important focus area is the development of psychophysical rehabilitation techniques.
The internships will allow Ukrainian specialists to explore American approaches to training sports managers, coaches, agents, and promoters, as well as learn about innovative rehabilitation methods for both military personnel and civilians — particularly those recovering from limb loss.
Additionally, the program will include studies of U.S. sports club operations, grassroots sports development, and the creation of joint scientific centers and academic exchange programs.
To improve medical support and rehabilitation services, the partnership will support the creation of research labs for diagnostics, the development of new physical and psychological recovery methods, training of adaptive sports professionals, and the implementation of rehabilitation practices for athletes with amputations.
The integration of this new knowledge into Ukrainian practice will include modernizing university curricula, launching joint research projects, enhancing coach training, and advancing adaptive sports and sports management programs.
The first Ukrainian internships at Rice University are scheduled for September–October 2025. Participants will stay on campus, with the training program offering a deep immersion into the scientific, practical, and educational activities of their American colleagues.
Reference: Rice University (Texas) is one of the top research institutions in the U.S., known for its strong programs in biomedical sciences, physical education, rehabilitation, and sports.
Author: Inna Mikhno