Abstract
Young scientists, active participants in research and education process are potential representatives of professional middle class. Its presence is an indicator of positivity of current economic, social and educational reforms. Education in modern world provides socio-economic progress of society and is an important source of motivation of human behavior; it's a mainstay in solution of social problems. However, in modern society, where presence of large middle class is a symbol of solution of hidden economic problems, education is an inalienable part of formation and reproduction of middle class. The article presents results of sociological research, conducted in 2012 and aimed at assessing the content of professional activity of young scientists in terms of compliance with international standards and priorities for research activities.