As reported by Forbes, the National Research Nuclear University MEPhI, together with other leading engineering universities in Russia and the company Yandex, has participated in the development of a unified model for training specialists in physical AI. This marks the first description in the country of what AI creators for robotics and autonomous systems should know and be able to do. Thanks to this, universities and the industry will gain a common frame of reference.

MEPhI was responsible for the “Artificial Intelligence in Cyber-Physical Systems” block within this project.

The first educational program based on this model is Yandex Physical AI Garage, which will launch at MEPhI in autumn 2026.

As part of the programs implemented by MEPhI in collaboration with Yandex Education, students will immerse themselves in practical modules focusing on physical AI and autonomous systems for several weeks, with support from Yandex mentors.

This approach, combining theory and practice, will enable program graduates to be ready for participation in real-world projects.

The first participants of Yandex Physical AI Garage will be 100 students from five leading Russian universities who have successfully passed the selection process.

The training is free of charge, and stipends are provided for students. During their studies, they will gain access to Yandex’s resources and be able to consult with company experts.

Students will not only learn modern methods of machine learning and robotics but also apply them during project-based “garage” workshops. This is an offline practical experience where participants, under the guidance of Yandex mentors, will work on real research and engineering challenges at the intersection of AI and physics. Participation in the program offers a chance to join a strong inter-university community, gain access to Yandex technologies, and launch a career in the most cutting-edge field of technology.