Mining Institute, Kola Science Center, Russian Academy of Sciences, Apatity, Russia

S. V. Lukichev, Director, Doctor of Engineering Sciences, Corresponding Member of the Russian Academy of Sciences
R. M. Nikitin, Academic Secretary, Candidate of Engineering Sciences, r.nikitin@ksc.ru

The authors tell about history of the Mining Institute of the Kola Science Center RAS, that celebrates its 65th anniversary this year. The article briefly describes the key stages of evolvement of the research organization as repercussions of growth of the Soviet industry and development of vast natural resources in a hard-to-rich northern region. It is shown how landmark decisions rendered at a comparatively short notice made a framework for the development of mining science in the polar region of the Kola Peninsula. That allowed practicing the most efficient mining and processing technologies on an industrial scale in the conditions of the Far North (Russia), which made it possible to cover the basic demands of the country for mineral fertilizers and iron ore concentrate, as well as for copper, nickel and rare metals. The article describes the scientific activity base of the Mining Institute KSC RAS—research trends, the biggest latest achievements, scientific potential, technological equipment and instrumentation, and infrastructure. The uniqueness of the Mining Institute KSC RAS is, among other things, its location above the Arctic Circle. Hence the importance of the Institute’s mission in development of the Arctic and in enhancement of economic sovereignty of Russia.

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