The first version of this program was launched in 2018. Since 2019, it has changed its status, and its training and curriculum contents have been changed in accordance with the two new specializations.
The learning process now covers such fields as:
- studies of cross-cutting technologies: artificial intelligence, virtual and augmented reality, the Internet of Things, and basic neurotechnologies;
- work with modern digital complexes for studying the brain, the nervous system, cardiovascular, respiratory and muscle functions, as well as eye movements;
- studies of the methods of intelligent data processing: neural networks, machine learning, system analysis, image recognition, and visualization.
To study human psycho- and neurophysiological processes, the program uses such modern digital complexes as: OpenBCI, BioRadio Human Physiology Kit, BiTronics Lab’s Neuro DIY Kit, and the Robotrack Engineer Kit. Research is also supported by the necessary computer equipment, as well as virtual reality systems HTC VIVE and Tobii X2-30 Eye Tracker.
“This is the first such Master’s program in Russia. This constitutes its uniqueness and the topicality of its curriculum, which includes modern knowledge in the field of neurophysiology, intelligent big data processing methods, and software engineering methodology,” notes Lyubov Lisitsyna, the head of the program.
The new specialization Telecommunications Software was developed with participation of specialists from Nexign. Nexign engineers will be teaching three subjects: IT Solutions Architecture, Methodology of DevOps Software Development, and Quality Assurance in Software Development.
“Part of the classes will take place at the company’s headquarters on Vasilyevsky Island. Our colleagues will not only deliver lectures but also share their experiences of applying information technologies in real-world projects and products of the company. We’re interested in engaging talented specialists in the company’s work, which is why we’re providing students with the opportunity to demonstrate their skills in solving topical tasks – under the guidance of mentors, of course,” comments Egor Kosarev, the manager responsible for development and working with universities at Nexign.
For those who won’t be able to secure a place in the program but still want to develop in telecommunications, Nexign has another offer – NX Bootcamp. This is a project intended for senior-year students that allows young IT specialists to learn more about working at a major company and boost their skills in software development, testing, and analytics.
“The NX Bootcamp program consists of classes on hard and soft skills that are open to anyone, as well as private classes for those who pass the selection. The best students will be offered a paid summer internship. It’s important for every IT specialist to expand their purview, share their experience, and acquire new knowledge. This is the reason why we regularly host meetups, which are announced on social media under the tag #nxmeetup. Our joint Master’s program with ITMO University is a new project for us, and we’ll be glad for it to be entered by people who are interested in solving truly complex problems, working with modern technologies, and achieving the impossible,” adds Egor Kosarev.
The other of the program’s new specializations is Software for the Implementation of Neurotechnologies. ITMO runs it in collaboration with Brain Development LLC. In Russia, the company is well-known as a developer of unique learning equipment and teaching materials in six high-tech fields: educational robotics, programming, neural networks, computer vision, additive technologies, and neurotechnologies. Each of these tracks is backed up by its own teaching and learning support kit.
In 2015, the company launched Robotrack, the international network of digital technology, robotics and neurotechnology clubs for children.
“We make it possible for students to study neural interfaces and try them in action. We develop advanced equipment for study and research purposes. Master’s students can see the source code and perform several real-world tasks. ITMO students can also do their practical training at our company and make use of our equipment both at our facilities and at the university,” says Natela Greylikh, CEO of Robotrack.
Robotrack is an official project of the National Technology Initiative, a state program for supporting the development of promising fields that are essential to the global economy in Russia.
The company group Brain Development LLC and Robotrack LLC work with support of the Skolkovo Institute of Science and Technology, the Ministry of Industry and Trade of the Russian Federation, the Ministry of Digital Development, Communications and Mass Media of the Russian Federation, Educational Technology Navigator, and the industry association NeuroNet. In 2019, the group entered the top 5 of high-tech St. Petersburg companies specializing in the development of ready-made solutions in the field of education.
The Neurotechnologies and Software Engineering Master’s program will take in 25 tuition-free and 15 fee-paying students. Prospective students need to have good programming skills and experience in developing software systems. You can apply for the program online via your prospective student’s account on ITMO Admissions.
