Collaboration Projects with Industry, Institutional and Government Partners Exemplify Masdar Institute’s Commitment to Furthering Clean Energy

Abu Dhabi-UAE: 26 May, 2012 – Stakeholders including academic and research colleagues, industry partners, sponsors and contributors are unanimous in their acknowledgement about one aspect of Masdar Institute of Science and Technology – the research-based institution consistently receives acclaim and recognitions from international and regional organizations for outstanding contributions towards academic, research and human capital development.

The independent research-oriented institution focused on advanced technologies and sustainability has achieved this feat by focusing on the continued development of partnerships and collaborative ventures that bring direct benefits to stakeholders.

Some of the local and international organizations currently partnering with Masdar Institute include Emirates Aluminium (EMAL), Tabreed, Mubadala Aerospace, Siemens AG, Masdar PV, Toyota Motor Corporation, The Boeing Co., Honeywell UOP, Etihad Airways, Advanced Technology Investment Company (ATIC), Dubai Supreme Council of Energy, Environment Agency Abu Dhabi, the International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA) and the World Energy Council (WEC).

Dr Fred Moavenzadeh, President of Masdar Institute, said: “A key element that underscores our success in collaborations is the unique regional capability in advanced research and development that we offer our partners. As we expand our research focus to more specialized areas in advanced technology, we will continue to provide our stakeholders with our expertise for the advancement of clean and sustainable technologies. Our partners also need to be commended for creating these research opportunities for us to work together towards leading-edge innovations. We thank the country’s wise leadership for their vision in building an institution that effectively contributes to the UAE’s academic, research and human capital development efforts.”

Masdar Institute’s research cooperation agreement with EMAL is a striking example ofa partnership that reiterates academic-industry collaboration.

Saeed Fadhel Al Mazrooei, President and CEO of EMAL, said: “The Master Research Agreement has already initiated and executed opportunities for value-adding research projects. and EMAL is keen to assess its tangible benefits upon completion of the projects. This is also part of EMAL’s strategic plan that incorporates the broader Vision 2030 of Abu Dhabi.”

Currently EMAL has four research projects with Masdar Institute including exploring activation water treatment to limit the growth of green algae and other pathogens that promote algae growth, efficient cooling for pot shut down, on-site assessments of a reverberatory aluminium melting furnace, and voltage drop study across the anode-rod connection.

The World Energy Council is a global and inclusive forum for thought-leadership and tangible engagement committed to sustainable energy future. Founded in 1923, it is mandated to promote the sustainable supply and use of energy, sharing common objectives with Masdar Institute.

Dr Christoph Frei, Secretary-General of the World Energy Council, said: “The Masdar vision has been an inspiration to many of us and we welcome the Masdar Institute’s significant contribution as an innovation catalyst in furthering clean energy and advanced technologies through partnerships with industry leaders. The Masdar Institute can play an important role in the further development of community-supported energy solutions, which will be the key to unlock the potential of energy efficiency and distributed energy.”

As an organization that is marking its anchor presence in Masdar City, Siemens is collaborating with Masdar Institute under a framework agreement that has provisions for both education and research. The research and development aspect of the Siemens partnership consists of programs for Smart Grid, Smart Buildings, and Carbon Capture and Storage (CCS). Siemens is also providing scholarships and funding for research equipment that will benefit educational programs for the advancement of knowledge economy in the UAE.

While the first CCS research collaboration project has been successfully completed, the collaboration continues with a second project that started in December 2011 and focuses on the evaluation of CO2 capture process waste reuse and recycling in the UAE.

For Siemens, the partnership was also an opportunity to tap into the abundant wealth of creativity at Masdar Institute, especially in solar energy research and development to achieve cost effective solar photovoltaic (PV) energy in the Middle East region.

Adrian Wood, Regional Director – Solar and Hydro, Middle East, Siemens, said: “The Middle East region has proprietary demands on the technology used. For Siemens it is a great benefit to tap into the know-how of the Masdar Institute with its significant background of PV panel testing in the UAE. The multi-disciplinary staff of the Institute generates new and out-of-the-box ideas that lead to completely new approaches. We look forward to jointly identifying ways to further enhance the use of PV panels in the Middle East region.”
 
The partnership with Masdar Institute has proved worthwhile for Siemens, which predicts that the performance of solar panels could be optimized through a new coating technology that helps prevent performance-degrading dust accumulation.

Oliver Hennig – Head of Solution Design (PV), Siemens AG, Germany, said: “One of the biggest challenges of the coatings is to match the expected lifetime and cost per coated area. We are confident that we will find a coating technology that will further optimise the performance / cleaning of PV panels in the Middle East.”

The research-based institution’s commitment to solar energy is further exemplified by its partnership agreement with Masdar PV. Projects have been progressing satisfactorily following a strategic master research partnership signed in January earlier this year.

Dr. Andreas Heidelberg, Manager-Process Integration, Masdar PV, said: “The strategic master research partnership with Masdar Institute has begun yielding dividends asall three projects have kicked-off and in all areas first results have been achieved. The three areas – transparent conductive oxide (TCO) optimization, photovoltaic device simulation and light management optimization – hold the key to realizing Masdar PV’s efficiency roadmap.”

The Abu Dhabi-headquartered International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA) is collaborating with Masdar Institute to develop and advance a publicly-accessible atlas of solar and wind resources. In addition, about 20 IRENA scholars have been admitted to Masdar Institute in September 2011 as part of the joint IRENA-Masdar Institute scholarship program. The program aims to support innovative research opportunities for students, opening high-level communication channels between local and global energy policy-makers and highly-accomplished individuals from various regions of the world. In addition to regular academic requirements, IRENA scholars participate in an exclusive Lecture Program that provides the latest developments in the field of renewable energies in the UAE and worldwide.

Masdar Institute’s partnership with IRENA took a whole new dimension following agreements with the UAE Directorate of Energy and Climate Change; Dubai Supreme Council of Energy; and Environment Agency of Abu Dhabi for the launch of the UAE Research Center for Renewable Energy Mapping and Assessment. The Center aims to develop regional knowledge and leadership in renewable energy assessment and mapping for the Arabian Peninsula and countries with similar environmental conditions, mainly in Africa. This follows the UAE’s support of IRENA in its advancement of a publicly-accessible atlas of solar and wind resources, particularly for developing countries.

On human capital development, Masdar Institute has taken the lead with four other higher learning institutions to launch the University Leadership Council, a platform for academic leaders to share creative ideas, foster common interests and spearhead new initiatives for R&D, innovation and technology transfer in the region.

Wyatt R Hume, Provost, UAE University, aptly describes the role of Masdar Institute in the University Leadership Council initiatives. Hume says: “Masdar Institute has been a creative and energetic partner in our mutual efforts to develop a high level of research capability, and therefore to develop skills and abilities among young UAE nationals.”

Established as an on-going collaboration with the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), Masdar Institute integrates theory and practice to incubate a culture of innovation and entrepreneurship, working to develop the critical thinkers and leaders of tomorrow. With its world-class faculty and top-tier students, the Institute is committed to finding solutions to the challenges of clean energy and climate change through education and research.

Foundation Program Students Focus on Specialized Research to Contribute to UAE’s Economic and Social Objectives

Abu Dhabi-UAE: 23 May, 2012 – It is a gateway for sustainability, making history and unlocking new forms of energy; it offers a unique interdisciplinary research environment in advanced energy with peers from over 30 countries; it is a dynamic, community-integrated, high-quality renewable energy-focused institution that actually works.

These are some of the remarks from some of the MSc first year students about Masdar Institute of Science and Technology.

That the research-driven institution strikes such strong sentiments reflects its inherent appeal as a representation of what the humanity could achieve by being proactive sustainably. And such strong sentiments motivate these students to intensify their contribution to the community. But a key factor to motivation stems from the UAE National Foundation program.

More specifically, the Foundation program aims to help deserving Emirati students augment the knowledge required to undertake graduate level courses at Masdar Institute. It prepares the students for two years of advanced studies in one of Masdar Institute’s Master of Science (MSc) programs. At the same time, the program hones their skills and equips them for their role as future decision-makers.

Dr Fred Moavenzadeh, President of Masdar Institute, said: “We consider the UAE National Foundation program as one of the basic elements in structuring the community of the future. By offering an enabling environment that will strengthen the knowledge base of the Emirati students, Masdar Institute directly contributes to building Abu Dhabi’s human capital, as mandated by the country’s leadership. This will in turn create industry leaders qualified and creative enough to innovate new sustainable and environment-friendly technologies.”

When launched in Fall 2010, only 18 UAE national students were admitted to the Foundation program. But since then, the program has generated intense interest among graduates and Masdar Institute’s efforts have begun to pay off. In September 2011, the Foundation program enrolled 55 students, a significant increase over the previous years. At present, the total number of students across the eight Master’s programs has reached 240, among which 71 are UAE nationals. The coming year is set to witness even higher enrollment of UAE national graduates.

Take Meshayel Al Ali for example. She has chosen ‘Optimal Carbon Price for Carbon Capture in Industrial Production: An Empirical Analysis on Two Industries in the UAE’ as the topic for her research. And she remains firms on what she would like to achieve. Meshayel says: “I am doing something for my country and try to establish models to set some policies and I am interested to work in environmental issues, especially carbon, to preserve the world for the next generation.”

“But everything was possible because of the Foundation program, which enhanced my capabilities and facilitated my choice,” Meshayel admits proudly and adds: “The technical curriculum essentially proved its worth during my research.”

An Architectural Engineer, Meshayel is working on research for the first time. She feels proud that she participated at the World Future Energy Summit 2012 with her first poster on carbon capture and storage. Having experienced the academic and research settings at Masdar Institute, Al Ali is keen to encourage her friends with Engineering background to enroll in Masdar Institute.

Shaikha Ahmed Al Zaabi, another Architectural Engineer, never imagined she would be working in Operations Research and Logistics. But now, she believes her research has the potential to offer great value for naval port operations in Abu Dhabi. Shaikha also believes the programs offered at Masdar Institute are in line with the UAE’s vision for a knowledge-based economy and sustainable development. She says: “I knew that by being part of this institution, I was bound to benefit greatly on a career level as well as on a personal level.”

For Shaikha, the Foundation program prepared her for the course ahead. “Without the Foundation program, I would not have come this far. The program strengthened my basic skills and paved the way for my academic progress.”

In terms of aesthetics and functionality, the campus itself was unlike any other building in Abu Dhabi, emphasizes Shaikha. She adds: “From afar, the structure seems like an architectural misfit in the middle of a vast desert. Its futuristic design played a large contrast to its surroundings. However, on reaching the Masdar Institute campus by riding the PRT (personal rapid transit) pod cars certainly made a great first impression, since I have personally not seen this technology up-close anywhere in the world.”

The electric-powered single-cabin driverless PRT pod cars offer the privacy, comfort and non-stop travel of a taxi service and the reliability of a public transport system. It is one of the sustainable transport systems that is being piloted at Masdar Institute.

Other first year UAE national students include Mohamed Al-Sharhan, a Research Assistant and a Graduate Student of the Engineering Systems and Management program. A Civil Engineer, he chose transportation as a specialization, so that he can become familiar with modern scientific techniques.

Mohamed says: “And I have no doubt that my fellow engineers and I will be able, one day, to convert all streets into environment-friendly roads. My passion for transportation, and traffic engineering in particular, is what prompted me to choose this specific specialization. I wish to serve my country in infrastructure and the development of advanced technologies in roads management and support Abu Dhabi move towards creating a low-carbon economy.”

After completing a semester of research at NASA’s Sustainability Base, not a single opportunity resembled a ‘challenge’ as well as a ‘home’ like Masdar Institute did, says Reem Ketait. She aims to draw from her Chemical Engineering background and current pursuit in energy-efficient systems to look into the water stress scenario of the UAE.

A first-year IRENA (International Renewable Energy Agency) scholar, Reem is spending hours in an interdisciplinary setting amongst leaders in renewable energy to strengthen her grasp in cutting edge technologies.

Reem says: “The influx of world leaders, industrial speakers, and international scholars coming to share their knowledge and experience to Masdar Institute students only reflects the magnitude of this place we call home. After all, our sun is one that rises and sets over roofs covered in solar panels, and a whole city made to be a success story for the entire world.”

A Chemical Engineer who is focusing her research on implementing Carbon Capture and Storage in the UAE, for Iman Ustadi sustainability was more of a ‘future plan’, before she joined Masdar Institute but now she has made it her habit. She says: “I was always impressed by the term ‘sustainability’ but felt that I am responsible towards this term, only after I joined Masdar Institute. Today I think of sustainability, in terms of applying and promoting it wherever I am.”

A member of Young Future Energy Leaders (YFEL) program, an outreach initiative by Masdar Institute, Iman recently she participated in a panel discussion to highlight the role of youth groups in managing future economies at the ‘Sustainable Arabia: Clean Energy 2012’ conference. Additionally she is also part of the ‘Takatof’ volunteering program initiated by UAE nationals that helps look at the different classes of the community, share their challenges, listen to their requests and even assist them with what is available.

The focus of Masdar Institute on sustainability and its collaboration with the MIT are the key influencing factors that attracted Sultan Al Awadhi, a civil engineer, and Engineering Systems and Management student. In addition to the full scholarship that the Institute offers to students, Al Awadhi is fascinated with top-of-the-range laboratory facilities for anchoring advance research. He says: “The library, for example, is equipped with an advanced search system that helps students gain access to many databases to support their research activities.”

One of the founders of Masdar institute Emirati Cultural Club, and an IRENA scholar, Sultan was able to start his research in “assessing the massive deployment of large scale solar and wind energy projects,” through using the IRENA data and lectures program. He is additionally a member of the YFEL program that offered him an opportunity to participate in WFES 2012 and create a business plan for renewable energy projects.

As the graduating students look forward to the fast approaching Commencement Day, most of the Foundation program students feel proud that they are part of an institution that continues to make them full-fledged professionals in clean energy and advanced technology areas. Shaikha Al Kaabi sums up: “A great opportunity is presented (through Masdar Institute) and it is up to you to grab it and use it.

“It is every engineer’s wonderland!” says Reem Ketait. “Even after I became a student here rushing between classes, I cannot help but find myself smiling at all the tourists that turn in circles and pause to stare at the buildings or snap a photograph, to make sure people will believe the stories they are going to tell!”

All these students are looking forward to becoming post-graduates in 2013.

Alumni Say Masdar Institute Offers New Frontiers in Scientific Research, Creates Smart Network of Peers in Industries and Helps Personal Growth

Abu Dhabi-UAE: 21 May, 2012 – New frontiers in scientific research, wider recognition and a smart network of peers across various industry sectors, are some of the significant benefits of being associated with Masdar Institute of Science and Technology, indicate the alumni of this independent, research-driven graduate-level university focused on advanced energy and sustainable technologies.

Most of the first batch of 71 students who received their Master’s degrees at the first-ever Masdar Institute commencement ceremony in June 2011 have firmly established their status as reliable professionals after completing one full year in their careers, reiterating the world class learning experience at Masdar Institute. Some of these graduates may attend the second commencement ceremony but not without taking a trip down memory lane at their alma mater.

Dr Fred Moavenzadeh, President of Masdar Institute, said: “Masdar Institute is mandated to help build a knowledge-based economy in the UAE through the development of human capital, R&D and the traditionally vibrant entrepreneurship culture. Our first batch of students proved to be a rich and diverse talent bank – a reason why they have successfully become industry professionals within the first year of their career. We thank the country’s wise leadership for their continuous support that helps us to nurture and develop such innovative young minds and prove their competency among the global workforce.”

A student of Engineering Systems and Management, Shaikha Ali Al Mazrouei, an alumnus (class of 2011), says that working in her area of specialization enhances her capabilities and contributes towards promoting her self-confidence. She says: “After graduating from Masdar Institute, I have become more capable of facing challenges, in addition to gaining skills in coordinating and communicating with others within the scope of my work. My knowledge and experience continue to smoothen my progress towards reaching my ambitions.” She is currently employed with Mubadala Aerospace.

A firm believer in the ideals propagated by the Founding Father of the UAE, the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, Al Mazrouei remains confident that she will be able to apply the concept of sustainability in her work as well as her PhD studies in the future. “We must cooperate as a whole and make all efforts in order to achieve the best sustainability model for the country,” she emphasizes.

Among the alumni, Joseph Pan mastered in Engineering Systems and Management and lives in Germany. Pan says: “The main factor that makes Masdar Institute post-graduates stand out in the German job market is the exposure to the international research community. Only a few Master’s students in Germany have publications to their credits (as against several students at Masdar Institute).”

What is more, the learning process at Masdar Institute hones the intellectual acumen and skill sets of the graduates, helping them gain a firm foothold in the labor market.

One of the alumni Brian Warshay was also a student of Engineering Systems and Management who says he has been quite successful in implementing in the workplace what he learnt at Masdar Institute. Warshay says: “The comprehensive research I performed for my thesis has come in handy numerous times as I have written market research reports and insights into the industry sector that I cover. On several occasions I have used my network of classmates now working in similar industries to gather primary information and research about related topics.”

Peer network apart, Masdar Institute offers an array of opportunities to students for overall individual personal development.

Currently employed as a Research Associate with Lux Research, Inc., performing market research on smart grid and grid storage technologies, Warshay proudly points out that he gained tremendous experience from taking advantage of the unparalleled opportunities Masdar Institute had to offer outside of the classroom. He admits that personally he benefited from being an active member of the student government and several clubs. He also points out that he benefited professionally by participating in the Zayed Future Energy Prize Review Committee and by representing Masdar Institute in Germany at the World Student Environmental Summit (WSES) 2011.

As an institution that hosts students from across the globe, Masdar Institute provides a rewarding experience to students and faculty to work cross-culturally with people of different backgrounds.

Another alumnus Josh Halperin a student of Engineering Systems and Management, places such multicultural interaction several notches above the specific knowledge an individual acquires. He says: “Masdar Institute’s great diversity prepared me for working with people across the globe within my company.”

Halperin thinks that the knowledge he gained at Masdar Institute keeps him in a unique position in the energy industry. He adds: “Many of us learned ways to bring value to the energy industryas it transitions toward the broader use of renewable energy. Additionally, I have found that our experience in the Middle East is invaluable because of its significance in the global energy market.”

But he adds: “Whether or not I remain in the energy industry long-term, I will definitely continue to make choices that are more sustainable in both my personal and professional lives.”

New frontiers in scientific research and a platform to debate and learn from a generation that led the change have been the two crucial features that make a post-graduate from Masdar Institute different from others, according to Vijo Varkey T., currently employed with Siemens.

Vijo says: “I have been very successful becauseboth at Masdar Institute and Siemens, sustainability remains a way of life.”

For Steven Meyers, student of Mechanical Engineering, it wasthe hands-on nature of his research and the facilities at Masdar Institute that has made all the difference both to his research and his professional lives.Meyers’ name was included in the esteemed Forbes 30 ‘Under 30’ achievers list in the ‘clean energy’ category for his research in thermal and optical modeling of the Beam Down Solar Thermal Plant in Masdar City.

Meyers says: “Not many schools have concentrated solar research equipment on campus grounds like Masdar Institute and this was a big help.  Also, the amount of international exposure I was able to gain through my research, through the World Future Energy Summit (WFES) and other academic conferences. This was absolutely necessary to build a network and helped me to acquire two job offers.”

For Hanan Abdulla Mohammed Al Shemeili (class of 2011), a former student of Computing and Information Science who remains strongly committed to contribute to Abu Dhabi’s Vision 2030 plan, the learning process she underwent at Masdar Institute helped her immensely. She says: “People at Masdar Institute have inspired me in many aspects and I learnt from them how to achieve my targets, no matter the number of obstacles that get in the way.”

Though Al Shemeili has shifted from IT and entered business development and financing, she is utilizing the skill sets she gained in her job as a Senior Analyst with Services Ventures, Mubadala Development Company, while effectively implementing what she learnt at Masdar Institute.

Masdar Institute’s contribution to knowledge development came under spotlight when Rana Qudaih, an alumni majored in Mechanical Engineering, won the Borealis Student Innovation Award.

Probably one of the most succinct advices to the second batch of graduating students came from Vijo Varkey who said: “In life, we can decide to laugh or cry. I choose to laugh. What will you choose?”

Warshay agrees and says: “The benefits from personal connections and the interactions with the international group of students, faculty, and administration throughout the Masdar Institute network is unmatched anywhere in the world and will prove invaluable for future career opportunities and success. And, above all, it helps personal growth.”

Established as an ongoing collaboration with the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), Masdar Institute integrates theory and practice to incubate a culture of innovation and entrepreneurship, working to develop the critical thinkers and leaders of tomorrow.  With its world-class faculty and top-tier students, the Institute is committed to finding solutions to the challenges of clean energy and climate change through education and research.

Consistent Achievements by Masdar Institute’s Faculty and Students Support UAE’s Rapid Strides in Knowledge-Intensive Industries

Abu Dhabi-UAE: 12 May, 2012 – Contributing to Abu Dhabi’s long-term economic and social objectives through developing graduates with creative talents remains the key mandate of Masdar Institute of Science and Technology. What is more, the research-driven institution’s students and faculty have consistently contributed to the consolidation of the UAE’s rapid strides in knowledge-intensive industries.

The first batch of 72 students who received their Master’s degrees in June 2011 and the second batch of students, who will receive their degrees in May 2012, along with the renowned faculty members, strongly reinforce the tangible outcome of Masdar Institute’s constant efforts towards building human capital.This is evident from the fact that a significant number from the first batchhas already been contributing to the global renewable energy and advanced technologyindustries for over a year now.

Dr Fred Moavenzadeh, President of Masdar Institute, said: “Ourmultidimensional roles through academics, research and outreach initiatives have enabled ustoaccomplish several milestones over the past year. The collective outcome is our consistent contribution towards building the human capital capable of leading Abu Dhabi in knowledge-intensive industries.As mandated, we will continue to raise our benchmarks to ensure higher performance levels and we thank the UAE’s leadership for their support that has made our achievements possible.”

In its firm commitment to transform the economy into a knowledge-based one, Abu Dhabi and the UAE have been investing heavily ininstitutions that drive higher educationin science, engineering and technology streams. These are part of a long-term plan to gradually develop indigenous talent that can lead knowledge-intensive sectors such as high-technology, aerospace engineering, future energy, water, environment, and health.

Masdar Institute has already developed core capabilities in advanced materials synthesis and characterization, microsystems and nanotechnology, computational sciences, policy and economic modeling, and engineering systems. These capabilities make the research-driven university more suitable to contribute to variouseconomic sectors including petrochemicals, metals, aerospace and defense, biotechnology, semiconductor, and telecommunications.

Aglobally-renowned faculty, state-of-the-art laboratories, leading-edge research in advanced technology areas and the commitment of the top-caliber students to excel in academics and research have already begun yielding dividendsfor Masdar Institute and the UAE. More specifically, Masdar Institute students and faculty have been hand-picked for international recognitions following outstanding research achievements.

One of the most singular contributions to the UAE from Masdar Institute has come from Dr Marwan Khraisheh, Dean of Engineering.Through his efforts, the UAE has become the region’s first-ever member of the International Academy for Production Engineering, known as Collège International pour la Recherche en Productique (CIRP). The UAE’s membershipopens doors for young scientists and researchers from this region to gain an entry into the highly selective club.

Hamza Kazim,Vice-President-Operations and Finance, Masdar Institute,said: “The international recognitions, patent filings and other similar achievements validate the resourcesallocated to the vital education and researchactivities within Masdar Institute. As we focus on the next stage of growth, our priority will remain on increasing our contributionto the human capital development of Abu Dhabi. We are confident in the coming years Masdar Institute will achieve greater milestones with the guidance of the country’s leadership.”

Some of the faculty members have been driving research and innovation at various levels within Masdar Institute and overseas. Thanks to consistent efforts by these faculty members, Masdar Institute remains globally prominent.

Progress on the collaboration front with the industry has remainedremarkably positive. The successful completion of the first carbon capture research project and the launch of several smart building and smart grid research projects with Siemens, a master research collaboration agreement with Emirates Aluminium (EMAL) to increase production efficiency at EMAL smelters, the collaboration with the International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA) and other UAE government organizations for the Global and UAE Atlas projects to map solar and wind energy sources, as well as the collaboration with Advanced Technology Investment Company (ATIC) and Technische Universität Dresden to set up twin labs in Abu Dhabi and Dresden to focus on new semiconductor technologies, particularly 3-dimensional stacked chips, place Masdar Institute firmly in the forefront of research.

At the same time, through education-related measures such as scholarship agreements with Toyota Motors Corporation and the International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA), Masdar Institute contributes to human capital development that will bring long-term benefits to the country.

These efforts have already given encouraging results. The prestigious Borealis Student Innovation Award for alumnus Rana Qudeih, who worked under the guidance of Dr. Isam Janajreh of Mechanical Engineering program, and the inclusion of alumnus Steven Myers on the Forbes 30 ‘Under 30’ achievers list in the ‘clean energy’ category for his work under the guidance of Dr. Peter Armstrong, Associate Professor in Mechanical Engineering, strongly demonstrate the highcaliber of Masdar Institute students.

Yousef Mahmoud, Master’s student in Electrical Power and Engineering, was the first author of the paper that was accepted for publication in IEEE Transactions on Sustainable Energy. His advisors, Masdar Institute Associate Professor Dr. Hatem Zeineldin, and Assistant Professor Michael Weidong Xiao, were co-authors of the papertitled “A Simple Approach to Modeling and Simulation of Photovoltaic Modules”.

Dr Lamya Fawwaz,Executive Director of Public Affairs, Masdar Institute, said: “Masdar Institute’s holistic academic and research offerings aim to significantly expedite indigenous human capital development in the UAE. Our dedicated outreach programs focus on educating, enhancing and empowering talented emerging individuals to effectively contribute to the country’s economic diversification objectives. We hope to further widen the reach of our activities to nurtureleaders, who will be the decision-makers of tomorrow.”

Through such key individual and collectiveachievements, Masdar Institute continues itseffective contribution to Abu Dhabi’s long-term social and economic objectives. And the research-based institution’s contributions will become even more comprehensive in the coming years as more students, trained and qualified in advanced energy and sustainable technologies, enter the workforce regionally and globally.

Established as an ongoing collaboration with the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), Masdar Institute integrates theory and practice to incubate a culture of innovation and entrepreneurship, working to develop the critical thinkers and leaders of tomorrow.  With its world-class faculty and top-tier students, the Institute is committed to finding solutions to the challenges of clean energy and climate change through education and research.

Opportunity for UAE Nationals to Accommodate Working Student’s Professional Responsibilities with Liberal Rate-of-Progress and Course Load Expectations

Abu Dhabi-UAE: 09 May, 2012 – Masdar Institute of Science and Technology, an independent, research-driven graduate-level university focused on advanced energy and sustainable technologies, today announced starting Fall semester 2012 its existing Master of Science programs will accept enrolments from practicing professionals in the local industry.

The degree path for practicing professionals has been customized to allow the option to use an industry-based engineering project as the basis for the research thesis. In addition, Masdar Institute will relax the normal rate-of-progress and course load expectations. Students in the program may opt to take only one or two courses per semester and will have the option to include a mentor from their home company as a member of the thesis committee. Coursework requirements will be identical to the current requirements.

Dr Fred Moavenzadeh, President of Masdar Institute, said: “As an institution mandated to develop human capital through specialized academic and outreach programs, Masdar Institute remains committed to creating adequate opportunities for the youth. By opening our academic programs to practicing professionals, we expand the scope of our offerings to Emiratis who are keen to acquire additional knowledge in sustainable fields. We believe UAE professionals will take advantage of this opportunity to enroll in our programs. We thank the country’s wise leadership for creating fresh avenues for the youth to strengthen their knowledge capabilities.”

Academic requirements will remain the same with 48 credit hours – 24 credit hours each for coursework and thesis – for completion of the MSc. Coursework requirements are normally met with eight courses including the four core courses required in each program and four elective courses chosen with the assistance and advice of the student’s academic advisor.

The topic for thesis can be based on an industrial project, drawn either from the student’s current work product or in a related area the company is interested in exploring further. The student will be required to prepare a written thesis and give a formal oral presentation on his/her thesis project as a requirement for graduation. Students participating in this program will be required to pay tuition and other fees.

Dr Joe Cecchi, Provost, Masdar Institute, said: “Our cross-disciplinary course of study and research focusing on sustainable technologies and policies offer immense value to students for launching a successful future career. Integrating education and research, our academic programs also prepare the graduates to be innovators, creative scientists and critical thinkers. We are confident the program for practicing professionals will benefit a wider cross-section of the youth, contributing further to developing a knowledge-based economy in the UAE.”

Admission requirements are identical to the regular degree programs. However, applicants who are practicing professionals must send a message of intent to the Masdar Institute Registrar (registrar@masdar.ac.ae) before applying for admission. The message must clearly specify the intent to enroll, the name of the employer/industry and the MSc program for enrolment.

Established as an ongoing collaboration with the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), Masdar Institute integrates theory and practice to incubate a culture of innovation and entrepreneurship, working to develop the critical thinkers and leaders of tomorrow.  With its world-class faculty and top-tier students, the Institute is committed to finding solutions to the challenges of clean energy and climate change through education and research.

Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, or Environmental Engineering Students Encouraged to Take Up Project Opportunity

Abu Dhabi-UAE: 03 May, 2012 – Masdar Institute of Science and Technology, an independent, research-driven graduate-level university focused on advanced energy and sustainable technologies, today announced detection of chemical contaminants in recycled water will be one of the project opportunities for summer internship this year.

The project titled ‘Detection and Quantification of Emerging Contaminants in Abu Dhabi Recycled Water Using Gas Chromatography/Mass Spectrometry (GC/MS)’ will be offered under the six-week internship program. Students interested in this particular area of research can submit applications online through the Masdar Institute website.

The objective of this project is to evaluate the baseline levels of emerging chemical contaminants such as pharmaceuticals, personal care products, steroids, and hormones in Abu Dhabi’s recycled water and to explore if better processes can be engineered for their efficient removal. Graduates and senior-level undergraduate students majoring in Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, or Environmental Engineering will be preferred for this project.

Student interns who take up this project will be tasked with learning sample preparation, operation of GC/MS, and interpretation of the results. They may also be asked to assist research staff in the analysis of experimental samples and review the environmental analysis literature.

The summer internship program is offered to the UAE nationals who are university seniors and/or those graduating this year with science, engineering or computer science as major subjects. This internship program that offers more than 15 project opportunities is scheduled to begin from 1 July.

Dr. Farrukh Ahmad, Associate Professor, Water and Environmental Engineering, Masdar Institute, said: “Water reclaimed from waste water is only supplied for irrigation or landscaping in the UAE. However, emerging chemical contaminants have to be removed or else these substances can accumulate in the environment and pose a risk to human and environmental receptors. The detection of emerging contaminants requires the development of new methods of chemical analysis. We are offering this project as part of the summer internship so that students understand the risks associated with the usage of such water and find effective means of finding a solution.

“This year’s summer internship program offers a wide spectrum of areas for research which, we are confident, will be interesting to the students. We thank the UAE’s wise leadership for their support in creating the right learning tools and techniques for students at Masdar Institute.”

Dr. Ahmad holds a PhD in Environmental Engineering from Rice University, US, and undergraduate degrees in Chemistry and Chemical Engineering from the University of Texas at Austin. He has to his credit several publications in peer-reviewed journals as well as in refereed conference proceedings.

Other projects that are being offered for internship include ‘Development of Advanced Amine-Based Solvents for CO2 Post-Combustion Capture’, ‘Detection and Quantification of Emerging Contaminants in Abu Dhabi’s Recycled Water’, ‘MATLAB Simulation Development for Power Grid Systems Simulations and Applications Designed Filters for Applications in Solar Cells’, ‘Solar Cell Technologies and Applications for Desalination and Renewable Energy’, and ‘Cost Comparisons of Renewable and Fossil Fuel Technologies’.

Interested students with a GPA of at least 3.0 (on a 4.0 scale) and an IELTS score of 6.0 (or equivalent) can submit their applications online through the Masdar Institute website along with a letter of recommendation.

Established as an ongoing collaboration with the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), Masdar Institute integrates theory and practice to incubate a culture of innovation and entrepreneurship, working to develop the critical thinkers and leaders of tomorrow.  With its world-class faculty and top-tier students, the Institute is committed to finding solutions to the challenges of clean energy and climate change through education and research.

ADNOC Continues Its Support of YFEL Annual Program for Second Consecutive Year

Abu Dhabi-UAE: 1 May, 2012 – As a sign of continuing cooperation, the Abu Dhabi National Oil Company (ADNOC) has contributed AED1 million for the second consecutive year in support of the Young Future Energy Leaders (YFEL) program, an outreach initiative of Masdar Institute of Science and Technology.

The contribution also marks ADNOC’s consistent support as the Platinum Sponsor for the YFEL annual program that aims to inspire, educate and position students and young professionals to become tomorrow’s the energy industry leaders. The current program has more than 160 members.

With a widening support base from the community including leading government organizations, the YFEL program aims to be even more effective in nurturing and fostering energy leaders of the future. One of the key reasons that continue to elicit voluntary response from the wider community, especially important individuals and corporations, is the program’s valuable addition to the professional growth of youth.

His Excellency Abdullah Nasser Al Suwaidi, Director-General of Abu Dhabi National Oil Company (ADNOC), said: “As a company that plays an integral role in the progress of the country, ADNOC is deeply committed to the growth of the UAE community in the social, economic and educational sectors. The YFEL program caters to the professional growth requirements of students and young professionals and has made significant contribution in this area. We are confident our contribution to the YFEL will drive the annual program further and benefit a larger segment of the community.”

He also said that young people are considered the decision-makers of tomorrow and through its integrated approach ADNOC is keen to meet their needs, while supporting them to enhance their professional qualifications. He added that ADNOC has adopted this integrated methodology with the national plan for sustainable development to support and encourage such programs and institutions. He pointed out that it is the responsibility of the community to support educational and incentive programs through partnerships.

Dr Fred Moavenzadeh, President, Masdar Institute, said: “As a Masdar Institute outreach initiative, the YFEL program aims to contribute to the country’s economic and social objectives by developing tomorrow’s leaders. We welcome the contribution from ADNOC and we believe community participation in this initiative will bring wider benefits. We thank the UAE’s wise leadership in developing institutions that can provide avenues for social development efforts.”

For 2012, YFEL has already lined up an intensive program schedule for the members. This year, the program commenced with the World Future Energy Summit (WFES) 2012, in which YFEL members actively participated, showcasing six innovative project concepts.

Earlier, Sultan bin Rashid Al Dhaheri, Member of the UAE Federal National Council (FNC), announced his contribution of one million US dollars to the YFEL program, which was in addition to government and private corporations that are equally keen to support the program. Last year, YFEL received support from Mohammed bin Kardous Al Ameri, an Emirati philanthropist, who contributed AED1 million. The individual financial contribution was in addition to the platinum and gold sponsorships that were provided by corporations.

In 2011, the YFEL program also expanded into a year-long schedule of educational courses, activities, and events. The calendar of events during the year became more engaging with the inclusion of moderated debates, participation in global forums, guided tours, an YFEL stakeholder luncheon event, a dinner gathering for members, high-profile presentations from global leaders and students’ presentations on work and research in the areas of advanced energy and sustainability.

Established in collaboration with the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), Masdar Institute is an independent, research-driven graduate-level university focused on advanced energy and sustainable technologies, which integrates theory and practice to incubate a culture of innovation and entrepreneurship, working to develop the critical thinkers and leaders of tomorrow.  With its world-class faculty and top-tier students, the Institute is committed to finding solutions to the challenges of clean energy and climate change.

Advanced Technical Training and Critical Thinking Skills Enable Students to Effectively Contribute to UAE’s Long-Term Economic Objectives

Abu Dhabi-UAE: 25 April, 2012 – Masdar Institute of Science and Technology, an independent, research-driven graduate-level university focused on advanced energy and sustainable technologies, today announced its dynamic and responsive academic programs and research offerings continue to help develop outstanding professionals, capable of effectively contributing to the long-term economic objectives of the UAE and the region.

The functional aspects of the academic programs have facilitated new technological innovations, patent filings, gaining of access to privileged clubs of scientists, global recognitions and presenting of papers at international forums for the first time from the region.

Masdar Institute’s research offerings constitute a powerful vehicle that provides students with the hands-on experience with open-ended problems that is the essential foundation of high-quality graduate technical education. This, in turn, effectively addresses one of Masdar Institute’s major objectives of building human capacity through graduates, and particularly among the growing cadre of UAE National students.

Dr Fred Moavenzadeh, President of Masdar Institute, said: “The extraordinary achievements of Masdar Institute, especially over such a short period of time, is closely related to our ability to recruit outstanding faculty and students, and to the critical role that our partnership with MIT has played in helping us develop our new faculty and programs so rapidly.

“One reason that advanced energy and sustainability are such formidable global issues is that viable solutions necessarily cross the traditional academic discipline boundaries, as well as encompass technology, economic, policy, and social science dimensions. For these reasons, Masdar Institute has avoided the typical university organizational model based on separate colleges and departments, in favor of a system that fosters collaboration across program and research boundaries.”

The eight Master’s programs aim to address the twin challenges of advanced energy and sustainability, while more than 110 research projects are primarily focused on interdisciplinary issues. Integrating courses and seminars, students are equipped with the technical training, critical thinking skills, and broad complex systems perspective to take on the daunting challenges of the 21st century.

The UAE National Foundation program and the eight academic streams have also steadily increased the intake of indigenous students. The Foundation program enrolled 55 students in September 2011, registering a significant increase over the previous years. A total of 240 students have been registered across all the eight different programs at present, among which 71 are UAE nationals. This represents a substantial increase in Emirati enrollment compared to the previous years.

During the year, Masdar Institute received accreditation for its Chemical Engineering Master’s program, which emphasizes energy and the environment by applying engineering fundamentals to solve the world’s most pressing issues in the development and production of fuels, improvements in energy efficiency, and mitigation of the environmental impacts of engineering processes. Earlier, the Electrical Power Engineering and Microsystems Engineering programs were accredited.

Established as an ongoing collaboration with the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), Masdar Institute integrates theory and practice to incubate a culture of innovation and entrepreneurship, working to develop the critical thinkers and leaders of tomorrow.  With its world-class faculty and top-tier students, the Institute is committed to finding solutions to the challenges of clean energy and climate change through education and research.

Masdar Honors Sir Robert Swan and Two Masdar Institute Students for Successful Antarctica Expedition

Abu Dhabi-UAE: 22 April, 2012 – Masdar Institute of Science and Technology, an independent, research-driven graduate-level university focused on advanced energy and sustainable technologies, represents what humanity is capable of achieving by being proactive sustainably, said Sir Robert Swan, the first person in history to walk both the North and South Poles.

Sir Robert Swan’s remarks came during a welcome reception at the campus where he was received by Dr. Sultan Ahmed Al Jaber, Chief Executive Officer of Masdar and Chairman of the Executive Committee of the Board of Trustees of Masdar Institute, Dr. Fred Moavenzadeh, President of Masdar Institute, Dr. Lamya Fawwaz, Executive Director, Public Affairs, and other officials.

After the welcome remarks by Dr. Moavenzadeh, a video featuring the16-day experience of two students – Maitha Al Kaabi and Reem Al Junaibi – was presented. Al Kaabi and Al Junaibi were part of Sir Robert Swan’s International Antarctic Expedition (IAE) 2012 team that completed the voyage on 12 March.

After acknowledging the exemplary role of Sir Robert Swan who led the expedition, Dr. Sultan Ahmed Al Jaber presented them with mementos, in honor and recognition of their feat.

The renowned environmentalist acknowledged the sustainability features that have gone into the construction of such a widely recognized academic institution distinguished for its research activities in clean energy and advanced technologies.

After his presentation on sustainability, Sir Robert Swan said: “The Masdar Institute campus stands out distinctly as an example for sustainable living. The design orientation and other architectural concepts inform us how much we can adapt our lives without harming the environment. It is essential for the global community to emulate such striking illustration of the need to remain environmentally-responsible in all walks of life. To me, Masdar Institute represents what humanity could achieve by being proactive sustainably.

“It is no wonder then that Maitha Al Kaabi and Reem Al Junaibi showed remarkable adaptation skills during their expedition to Antarctica. I congratulate Masdar Institute for nurturing the students with adequate knowledge in sustainability, renewable energy and advanced technologies.”

Dr. Sultan Ahmed Al Jaber said: “We are privileged to welcome Sir Robert Swan who has consistently shown the world the need to remain sustainably conscious. These are the same ideals that concur with Masdar’s mission to advance the development, commercialisation and deployment of renewable energy technologies and solutions.

 “We also take this opportunity to commend our two students who completed this awareness raising expedition, carrying with great pride the UAE National Flag and the Masdar insignia to the southern continent. We hope the expedition enabled them to experience the real life benefits of sustainability and renewable energy, while considerably enriching their perspective and expanding their knowledge horizon. We thank the UAE’s wise leadership for their support in establishing an institution that continues to receive global acclaim.”

Dr. Fred Moavenzadeh said: “The visit of the prominent environmental campaigner endorses the status of Masdar Institute as an academic environment that attracts scientists, researchers, ecologists and conservationists who support initiatives that help tackle the impacts of global warming. Masdar Institute is honored to welcome such a renowned individual and offers support to his advocacy of the preservation of natural resources. It was also the right occasion to express our acknowledgement and appreciation of the two students whose expedition has brought international acclaim to Masdar Institute. We thank Sir Robert Swan for his inspiration that encouraged our students to take on the journey and we look forward to more such achievements from all our students.”

Sir Robert is well-known in the UAE for his passion and concern for the environment, and hosting several Emiratis on his previous expeditions to Antarctica. Through his organization 2041, Sir Robert has dedicated his life to preserving Antarctica by promoting recycling, renewable energy and sustainability to combat the effects of climate change.

Sir Robert Swan has devoted himself to work alongside industry and business in education and inspiring young people. He has removed 1,500 tons of rubbish from the Antarctica, has reached out to over 35,000 African youth and taken more than 550 young people, teachers and corporate heads on his Antarctic journeys.

Masdar Institute provides students an unparalleled opportunity in the entire spectrum of research, from theory to applied research to commercialization in a single location. With its best-in-class amenities for research and development in clean technologies, it aims to help drive economic diversification through human capital and technological innovation.

Waste and Environment Management Company Officials Highlight Contributions towards Sustainability 

Abu Dhabi-UAE: 19 April, 2012 – Masdar Institute of Science and Technology, an independent, research-driven graduate-level university focused on advanced energy and sustainable technologies, today announced Bee’ah, Sharjah-based waste and environment management company, offered an overview of its operations to faculty and students.

Led by Khaled Al Huraimel, Chief Executive Officer, and Najib Faris, Vice-President of Marketing, Communications and Awareness, Bee’ah, the event organized at Masdar Institute campus attracted several faculty members and students. After the presentation, Al Huraimel met with members of Masdar Institute’s senior management to discuss areas of potential collaboration.

Dr Steve Griffiths, Executive Director of Institute Initiatives, Masdar Institute, said: “Masdar Institute is actively working on developing collaborations with UAE private enterprises and government organizations that have demonstrated the highest levels of commitment to sustainability. Bee’ah’s various project initiatives clearly demonstrate such commitment and we are confident that Bee’ah and Masdar Institute will identify several concrete collaboration avenues. We thank the country’s wise leadership for their support in taking forward projects that benefit the community.”

His Excellency Salim Al Owais, Chairman of Bee’ah, said: “The UAE has a common goal to reduce the amount of waste to landfill, and Masdar Institute is an ideal partner for us to explore new options through research. Bee’ah is already in the process of gearing up towards a 100% landfill diversion target set for the Emirate of Sharjah by the end of the first quarter of 2015, and we believe such research will help identify ways to turn waste into useful resources, improve the current waste treatment and recycling methods and help position the UAE as a country that keeps environment above other interests.”

Khaled Al Huraimel said: “Bee’ah has already invested in tools and infrastructure to help the UAE overcome some of the tough environmental challenges. We strongly believe that our talks with Masdar Institute will fructify into tangible actions which will unify our efforts to advance sustainability in the country.

“This comes at a time when we at Bee’ah are gearing up towards our next stage of expansion; taking our offerings beyond Sharjah and into other regions that require the knowledge and expertise available to sustain their environmental future. Masdar Institute shares a clear vision and commitment with Bee’ah on preserving the environment; our prospective partnership will create what is an essential step forward to promote and achieve sustainability excellence.”

Bee’ah started in 2007 as a waste management company with three employees. Today, it has expanded significantly into an integrated environmental and waste management company with world-class facilities, with over 2,000 employees. The company focuses on going beyond collection and disposal of waste, into innovations that turn waste materials into valuable resources for re-use in the economic cycle of the UAE.

Established as an ongoing collaboration with the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), Masdar Institute integrates theory and practice to incubate a culture of innovation and entrepreneurship, working to develop the critical thinkers and leaders of tomorrow. With its world-class faculty and top-tier students, the Institute is committed to finding solutions to the challenges of clean energy and climate change through education and research.

Abu Dhabi-UAE: 15 April, 2012 – Masdar Institute of Science and Technology, an independent, research-driven graduate-level university focused on advanced energy and sustainable technologies, today announced the last year’s graduating students who are employed, have performed remarkably well, reflecting the depth of working knowledge in clean energy students gain from the Abu Dhabi-based institution.

Out of the 72 who graduated in the 2011 batch, two students – Rana Qudeh and Steven Meyers – have also won international acclaim, bringing honor to Masdar Institute. Rana Qudaih received the Borealis Student Innovation Award, while Steven Meyers was selected in the esteemed Forbes 30 ‘Under 30’ achievers list in the ‘clean energy’ category.

More than half of the last year’s graduating students accepted employment offers, reflecting the good career prospects available for its graduates in the fast growing clean energy and advanced technologies sector. Some of them are continuing their doctoral studies at Masdar Institute, while others are attending overseas universities including the University of Waterloo, Imperial College, and University of South Dakota.

In fact, five Masdar Institute graduates have accepted employment offers from organizations in the US, while 29 of them are currently employed in the UAE itself including some with other units of Masdar. Two have been chosen by an organization in Saudi Arabia, while one post-graduate has gone to work with an NGO in Africa and another one received a job offer from Germany.

Dr Fred Moavenzadeh, President of Masdar Institute, said: “The extent of success achieved by these students strongly demonstrates the significant value Masdar Institute graduates bring to their employers. It also validates the extent of our human capital development and the knowledge creation that happen at Masdar Institute. Our graduates raise the benchmark in the operations of any organization and we thank the UAE’s leadership for their support in building the country’s true intellectual wealth.”

Masdar Institute alumnus Rana Qudeh, who majored in Mechanical Engineering and currently employed as a Manufacturing Engineer with Dubai Cable Company (Ducab), won the prestigious Borealis Student Innovation Award for her thesis on Polyolefins (plastics). Qudaih worked under the guidance of Dr. Isam Janajreh, Associate Professor, Mechanical Engineering, at Masdar Institute.

Similarly, Steven Meyers, who was part of the Laboratory for Energy and Nano Sciences (LENS) team under the guidance of Dr. Peter Armstrong, Associate Professor in Mechanical Engineering, was selected in the esteemed Forbes 30 ‘Under 30’ achievers list in the ‘clean energy’ category. Currently working with Saudi Aramco as Solar Engineer, Meyers and Dr. Armstrong conducted research in thermal and optical modeling of the Beam Down Solar Thermal Plant at Masdar City.

Also, Masdar Institute Electrical Power and Engineering Master’s student, Yousef Mahmoud, was the first author of the paper titled “A Simple Approach to Modeling and Simulation of Photovoltaic Modules” that was accepted for publication in IEEE Transactions on Sustainable Energy. His advisors, Masdar Institute Associate Professor Dr. Hatem Zeineldin, and Assistant Professor Michael Weidong Xiao, were co-authors of the paper.

Established as an ongoing collaboration with the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), Masdar Institute integrates theory and practice to incubate a culture of innovation and entrepreneurship. With its world-class faculty and top-tier students, the Institute is committed to finding solutions to the challenges of clean energy and climate change through education and research.

Abu Dhabi-UAE: 11 April, 2012 – From the desert sands of the UAE, Reem Al Junaibi and Maitha Al Kaabi packed their bags and travelled across half the world to reach the frozen Southern continent of Antarctica. But once they came, they were completely conquered by the sheer abundance of natural splendor.

“A life-changing experience,” admits Reem Al Junaibi. “I am a totally different person now,” declares Maitha Al Kaabi.

For, the expedition to Antarctica has evoked such powerful emotions transforming both, making them realize the need to adopt sustainable lifestyles. But what is more, it has also given them the mandate to ensure every person on the planet is made to realize that it is in the general interest of the community to remain sustainable.

Maitha Al Kaabi and Reem Al Junaibi bear testimony to the extent of student commitment one can witness at Masdar Institute of Science and Technology, an independent, research-driven graduate-level university focused on advanced energy and sustainable technologies. Their voyage was also part of the Young Future Energy Leaders (YFEL) program, a Masdar Institute outreach initiative.

Both were part of polar explorer Sir Robert Swan’s International Antarctic Expedition (IAE) 2012 team that completed its 16-day voyage to Antarctica. They returned to the UAE on 16 March after the expedition that began from Ushuaia in Argentina on 27 February, where the team returned on 12 March after visiting several places including the ‘E-Base 2041’ on the Antarctic continent.

From where they began their voyage in Ushuaia, with the hike up the Martial Glacier to learn teamwork, through the dreaded Drake Passage with more than 10-meter high waves, to the shore excursions and short landings on the Zodiacs in the Antarctic, the entire journey proved immeasurably exciting and rewarding at the same time.

The two had 11 shore excursions (eight landings and three cruises) on the Zodiac inflatable rubber boats from 3 March – one in the morning and another after lunch. They also had to spend one ‘survival night’ outdoor, after building a one-meter high wall of snow for protection from the elements of nature. But when the dawn came, it took them almost 10 minutes to break down the wall of snow, pack their sleeping bags and run to the Zodiacs.

Reem says: “The sleeping bags had a thermal layer that kept our bodies warm, or at least they were supposed to. I filled my sleeping bag with up to eight ‘hand warmers’ to trick my way into camping in Antarctica. Didn’t work, it was still too cold. At night, it rained a bit and I could hear the rain drops on my sleeping bag. But eventually, we did it. We survived the survival night!”

Many may have travelled to the Antarctic for different reasons but the two Masdar Institute students had one objective – research.

Says Reem Al Junaibi: “Antarctica has a unique weather condition such as ‘katabatic’ winds – ‘down-slope’ high-density winds that rapidly blow cold air. These winds can make generating wind energy in Antarctica quite challenging as they may cause the turbines to break or cause the system to be unstable and unpredictable.

“Therefore, to have better management of variable energy sources, or renewable energy, we need better management of information that is closer to real-time and also have a better understanding of the unique weather conditions in any given place provided for energy generation.”

Maitha on the other hand had different kind of experience. She says: “Though, I could not see the process of temperature induced salt precipitation in Antarctica, it was a great opportunity to work with CEO of companies and others who work in the area of my interest – how to preserve water resources in the UAE.

“The UAE is a desert with more than 85% of its fresh water coming from desalination. In my thesis with Dr. Raed Hashaikeh of Materials Science and Engineering program, we have developed cellulose to use as alternative solution for energy and chemicals that we get from outside the UAE.”

But the two never strayed from their objectives. “The weather was difficult and challenging but did not stop me and Maitha from performing our duty. Our mission was to learn about climate change and take every opportunity we have during the expedition by constantly being engaged. It was physically and mentally challenging, but not impossible,” says Reem.

The two also traversed the Cuerville Island where they experienced an ‘outdoor classroom’, Neko Harbor – the first place to visit on the continent where they could see the whales and magnificent glaciers, Paradise Harbor – where a TEDx event was organized, and the Lemaire Channel – where they watched humpback whales.

Though they have had somewhat similar experiences, they do differ on what they consider the single most precious moment during the entire expedition to Antarctica.

Says Al Kaabi: “It was what I saw from atop the hill on Neko Harbor. The most incredible and beautiful picture of nature. I forgot myself in that moment. To my right was the ice-covered mountain and farther to my left was the huge iceberg. And in the middle, I could see the sea.”

Says Al Junaibi: “The first time I went on a Zodiac and saw the humpback whale. It was the first time I have ever seen a whale and icebergs that close. I couldn’t sleep that day because of the excitement.”

But both remain firm on one thing. Given an opportunity, both are ready to go on their second Antarctic expedition – all over again – not for adventure, but to further emphasize why the world community needs to adopt a sustainability lifestyle.

Established as an ongoing collaboration with the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), Masdar Institute integrates theory and practice to incubate a culture of innovation and entrepreneurship, working to develop the critical thinkers and leaders of tomorrow. With its world-class faculty and top-tier students, the Institute is committed to finding solutions to the challenges of clean energy and climate change through education and research.