Graduated from the Moscow State Institute of International Relations under the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Russian Federation in 1998, Candidate of Political Sciences, Associate Professor. Has experience working in analytical centers, international organizations, business, politics and universities.
Since 2014 has headed the Inter-Connection Foundation, actively working to improve the professional level of the Russian non-profit sector, in particular in the sphere of charity work. Since 2017 has headed the Donor Forum, Council of the Association of Grant-Giving Organizations.
As part of his activities serves as a curator of the Inclusion Center, has been actively working on developing inclusive and social theatre in Russia, promoting projects on improving accessibility of cultural establishments for disabled people. He is a member of the Working Group for Creating Conditions for Participation of Disabled Individuals in Public Cultural Life under the auspices of the President of the Russian Federation. Is a member of the Working Group for Creating Professional Standards for Audio Commentators. Mr. Polikanov has received commendations of the President of the Russian Federation and the Mayor of Moscow, received awards of Moscow Region.