In Stalker 2: Heart of Chornobyl, Dr. Shcherba's request for help initiates the side quest "In the Name of Science," a multi-part mission requiring players to locate electronic collars from various mutants. This guide details the quest's progression and critical decision points.

Collecting the Electronic Collars:

The quest begins with finding five electronic collars at specific locations (shown on the in-game map). If locations aren't showing, you may have already collected them. Here's a breakdown:

After collecting all collars, return to Shcherba at the Roofed Warehouse in the Chemical Plant. If the quest bugs due to previously collected collars, use the console command "XEndQuestNodeBySID E08_SQ01_S2_SetJournal_WaitForSherbaCall_Finish_Pin_0".

Jammer Decision:

Shcherba discovers a signal jamming the collars. You must investigate the Storage on the Hill, encountering various enemies. You face a choice:

• Destroy/Disable the Jammer (Recommended): This advances the quest, rewards you with coupons, and leads to a bloodsucker encounter and a further choice.
• Recalibrate the Jammer: Rewards coupons and concludes the quest.

Final Confrontation and Choice:

Disabling the jammer leads to Shcherba contacting you, sending coupons, and requesting your help again. (Use "XStartQuestNodeBySID E08_SQ01_S3_Technical_SherbaInvitedToLab" if he doesn't call).

You'll receive Magic Vodka from Dr. Dvupalov, then confront Shcherba and three Bloodsuckers. A trap exposes you to PSI radiation; the Vodka negates the effects. Escape, defeat the Bloodsuckers, and confront Shcherba. The final choice:

• Kill Shcherba: Provides the same rewards as the next option.
• Let Shcherba Go (Recommended): Maintains positive relations with scientists and Dvupalov.

The quest concludes with a Gauss Gun reward and the "On a Leash" trophy.