Khalifa University Reaffirms Leadership in Translational Research, Innovation, and Tech Transfer at QS Global Skills Week 2026 in US
His Excellency Professor Ebrahim Al Hajri Highlights Khalifa University’s Role in Advancing UAE Innovation and Economic Diversification Agenda
Khalifa University of Science and Technology reaffirmed its global leadership in translational research, innovation, and technology transfer in line with advancing the UAE’s national innovation agenda and economic diversification goals, at the QS Global Skills Week 2026, a premier international platform focused on the future of skills, employability, and higher education transformation, held in Washington DC.
As an invited panel member of a strategic roundtable session titled ‘Skills for Translational Research and Technology Transfer: Aligning University Output with Industry Needs’, His Excellency Professor Ebrahim Al Hajri, President, Khalifa University, emphasized that translational research and technology commercialization remain essential enablers of the UAE’s long-term vision to build a diversified, innovation-driven economy. In this context, he highlighted some of the focus areas of Khalifa University Enterprise Company (KUEC), the University’s integrated commercialization and technology transfer arm.
The panel was chaired by Dr. Ashwin Fernandes, QS Vice-President for Strategic and International Engagement. Other panelists included Dr. S. Pamir Alpay, Interim Provost and Executive Vice-President for Academic Affairs, University of Connecticut, and Dr. P. Srirama Rao, Vice-President for Research and Innovation, Virginia Commonwealth University.
His Excellency Professor Al Hajri said: “Translational research is where knowledge meets commitment, and universities must go beyond discovery to ensure that research delivers tangible value — especially through new technologies, scalable solutions, and sustainable enterprises that address real-world challenges. Khalifa University’s proactive approach equips our researchers with commercial acumen, connects them with industry, and ensures that our discoveries contribute directly to economic diversification and societal progress. This is in line with the UAE’s strategic commitment to transition towards a knowledge-based economy, powered by advanced technology, innovation, and talent.”
Central to Khalifa University’s translational ecosystem is KUEC, which provides an end-to-end platform that supports intellectual property protection, venture creation, licensing, industrial collaboration, and market deployment.
Through KUEC, Khalifa University has demonstrated its ability to convert frontier research into impact-driven technologies. These include advanced materials and energy solutions developed at the University that have been successfully licensed to regional industry partners, contributing to improved efficiency and sustainability across the energy sector. In health and biomedical innovations, the University’s research labs have progressed through proof-of-concept and early commercialization stages, enabling pathways toward clinical validation and market adoption.
In addition, deep-tech startups originating from Khalifa University faculty and researchers have been supported through KUEC’s venture development framework, attracting external investment and forming strategic partnerships with global technology firms. These initiatives are closely aligned with the University’s strategic pillars such as human capital development, research excellence, innovation and entrepreneurship, and industry engagement.
The panel concluded with a discussion on the importance of multi-disciplinary skill sets in both technology and business, as well as scalable technology transfer frameworks and best practices, positioning Khalifa University as a model for university-industry integration in support of economic transformation.
Clarence Michael
English Editor – Specialist
