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KU Faculty selected for Italian Blockchain Strategy Committee

Dr. Ernesto Damiani Selected for Expert-Level Group on Blockchain

A Khalifa University member of faculty has been selected by the Italian Ministry of Economic Development to join a high-level expert group that will define Italy’s strategy for blockchain.

Dr. Ernesto Damiani, Director of the KU Center for Cyber-Physical Systems (C2PS) and Professor of Electrical and Computer Engineering, at KU, has been appointed as a committee member for his achievements in research and technology.

Italian Minister of Economic Development Luigi Di Maio made this statement regarding the committee members’ selection: “The numerous and qualified expressions of interest received in the selection of expert groups demonstrate the wealth of knowledge and experience that we have in Italy on emerging technologies. I thank all those who have expressed their availability and I am sure that together with the selected experts we will be able to build Strategies that are crucial for the development of our country in the name of innovation.”

The Italian government recently committed EUR100 million towards boosting blockchain and Artificial Intelligence (AI) based innovation.

Regarding his selection, Dr. Damiani said: “”I am glad of this appointment, which will give me a unique opportunity to help defining Italy’s strategy for blockchain adoption. I will focus on my own specialty: using public ledgers based on blockchain to improve trustworthiness of data to be fed to AI models. My selection is also an endorsement of the high quality work on blockchain we are currently doing within the C2PS, where blockchain and AI are two major research themes. I am sure that synergy between work done here in the UAE and similar initiatives in Europe will further increase worldwide visibility and reputation of KU research.”

In September the ministry had launched a call for applications from experts to be part of the committee to draft Italy’s National Strategy on distributed ledger technologies and blockchain. The call came around the same time Italy joined the European Blockchain Partnership, a multi-million dollar effort to create an international blockchain.

The ministry stated that the selections were made based on the criteria that were reported in initial call, including competence, relevant experience, as well as the proven ability to effectively disclose the needs and requests of stakeholders or the reference body.

Zarina Khan
Senior Editor
6 January 2019

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Alumni File Patents through Mubadala-Boeing Internship Program

Mechanical Engineering Graduate Sara Almahri and Aerospace Engineering Graduate Hind Amin Prove Industry-Ready Skills at Boeing

Two Khalifa University alumni have successfully contributed to three patents each in collaboration with others at The Boeing Company, where they interned for more than 18 weeks as part of an internship program sponsored by Mubadala Development Company.

BSc in Mechanical Engineering graduate Sara Almahri and BSc in Aerospace Engineering graduate Hind Saeed Ahmad Mohd Amin were among 12 students selected by Boeing from a group of 30 shortlisted by Mubadala. They had to go through a two-stage interview process to ensure their place in the final list.

Almahri spent Fall 2016 at the Colorado School of Mines and graduated from Khalifa University in July 2018. After her graduation, she spent four weeks at Boeing Everett preparing and training on different programs such as computer-aided three-dimensional interactive application (CATIA) and ENOVIA – a Product Lifecycle Management (PLM) software with a broad portfolio of technical and business applications. These first four weeks prepared Al Amahri for the two rotations she underwent at Boeing’s Design Engineering and Manufacturing Engineering departments, where she completed her 18-week internship.

Amin, who was also part of the Research Experience for Undergraduates (REU) program at the Colorado School of Mines, completed her engineering internship at Boeing’s South Carolina facility, where she worked to support the production of the 787 aircraft program.

Amin said: “All of the projects are tools that we have designed upon the request of mechanics who build the aircraft. The tools make it easier for the mechanics to perform a certain operation, which in turn reduces the manufacturing time and results in substantial savings for the company.”

Almahri described the internship at Boeing as a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. She said: “I learned about the different aircraft programs that Boeing operates and designs. I worked specifically on the 787 program, a new aircraft that is made mostly of composite material unlike other aircraft in the world that are made out of aluminum.”

She has submitted three patents, which include Fuel Tank Pressure Test, Fastener Support Tool, and Caliper Protective Cover. These patents have also resulted in substantial savings for Boeing.

Almahri said: “I was placed for seven weeks in Design Engineering and the rest of the seven weeks in Manufacturing Engineering. I worked on design changes that reduce the time and cost at the first department. Later, I spent most of my time in the factory talking to mechanics and technicians to improve specific processes which will improve the manufacturing process.”

Both alumni are deeply grateful to Khalifa University for laying the foundation that enabled them to intern with an international industrial leader.

Amin said: “My studies at Khalifa University gave me the essential basics in Aerospace Engineering. However, I believe that in order to enhance our knowledge in a particular area, it is important to put the theories into practice. This is where programs such as the Boeing internship and the REU internship allowed me to gain a better understanding of my field of study, while Khalifa University provided me the basic knowledge to build upon.”

Almahri agreed, adding: “The four years I spent at Khalifa University were very productive, as I learnt all the technical skills needed to become a mechanical engineer. Khalifa University supports students and makes sure that enough opportunities are provided to students to support them in hands-on as well as extra-curricular activities. Those activities help develop our communication skills which also enable us to become successful engineers.”

Clarence Michael
News Writer
10 January 2019

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KU Honors 2018 Young Future Energy Leaders

Certificates of Completion Presented to the Outgoing Cohort

 More than 40 members of the Young Future Energy Leaders (YFEL) 2018 outreach program were honored by Khalifa University of Science and Technology for successfully completing their year-long commitments at a gala ceremony.

Certificates of completion were presented to the YFEL members at the ceremony, organized at the Khalifa University Main Campus during the Abu Dhabi Sustainability Week 2019. Members of the Khalifa University Board of Trustees including Abdulaziz Abdulla Alhajri, Director of the Refining and Petrochemicals Directorate, Abu Dhabi National Oil Company (ADNOC), and Dr. Nawal Khalifa Al Hosany, Deputy Director General, Emirates Diplomatic Academy, were present on the occasion. KU’s senior management, including Dr. Arif Sultan Al Hammadi, Executive Vice-President, Dr. Ahmed Al Shoaibi, Senior Vice President, Academic and Student Services, Dr. Steve Griffiths, Senior Vice-President, Research and Development, and Dr. Bayan Sharif, Acting Provost, Dean of Engineering, also attended the ceremony, along with representatives from YFEL program sponsors such as BASF as well as other dignitaries and guests. Also present were the 2019 YFEL members.

Of the 2018 YFEL members completing their year-long program, 25 were non-UAE nationals, representing 14 countries, and 11 were Emirati.

Dr. Arif Sultan Al Hammadi said: “Khalifa University is proud to include YFEL among our outreach programs. YFEL helps to broaden the impact of our educational and research missions by attracting top students and young professionals within the UAE and around the world. During their 2018 YFEL year, these members have not only learnt innovative and inter-disciplinary science and engineering from our faculty, but also the UAE’s vision of sustainable energy leadership, which they can take back and expand upon as future energy leaders. They have traveled the world, visited innovators and leaders in industry, and seen the impact of sustainable technology and practices in a variety of applications. I believe they will apply what they have learnt through this experience and benefit the community in general.”

Dr. Ahmed Al Shoaibi said: “Congratulations to the 2018 YFEL members who have successfully completed their arduous year-long journey towards shaping themselves as future energy leaders. These talented emerging leaders are now fully equipped to tackle challenges and contribute effectively to further advancing sustainability in various sectors. I also welcome the 2019 YFEL members and firmly believe that they too will emulate and even exceed the benchmark already set by the previous members of the YFEL outreach program.”

During the ceremony, a video presentation highlighted the achievements of the 2018 YFEL outreach initiative, which included their completion of educational courses in three categories – technology, policy, and leadership.

The film also showcased a 10-member YFEL delegation, which learned first-hand how Germany’s three major industry leaders – BASF, Siemens and Bilfinger – are driving innovative solutions including digitalization for sustainable global development. Their visit focused on applied sustainability solutions relevant to the UAE and the restorative and regenerative‘circular economy’, which builds economic, natural and social capital.

During the year, the 2018 YFEL members produced a number of novel project concepts.The ‘You are the Future’ project helped UAE high school students choose the right career while offering mentorship, while the ‘Power Bag’ project incorporated a simple solar powered portable charger for refugees that can be placed on backpacks to store solar energy to charge electronic devices.

The 2018 YFEL members also attended several conferences in the UAE and abroad, like the World Future Energy Summit 2018, where their ideas were presented and discussed. Two YFEL members also participated as panelists in the 10th Green Leadership Series hosted by the Dubai Science Park.

Sharing his perspectives, YFEL member Hamdan Sarhan Al Zaabi said:“Participating in the 2018 YFEL program proved to be one of my best experiences. We had the opportunity to meet global energy leaders during the Abu Dhabi Sustainability Week, participated in several workshops and courses which focused on energy, leadership and sustainability during the year. I firmly believe the YFEL program helps steer the young professionals and students on the right path into becoming tomorrow’s energy leaders.”

Another YFEL member Shatha Nabil Abdulkarim Mubarak Alfalasi said: “The year-long journey was a memorable experience during which I shared knowledge, innovative ideas, skills, and culture were exchanged with other ambitious youth. Moreover, if there is anything that made me be inspired the most, it sure was the ‘butterfly effect’ which was the theme of Abu Dhabi Sustainability Week 2018. It taught me that small things can have big impact and they signify a path that can be followed.”

Clarence Michael
News Writer
17 January 2019

 

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His Highness Sheikh Hamed Visits KU Stand at WFES 2019

University Announces Key Research Collaborations as Faculty Led Knowledge-Sharing Sessions across Various WFES 2019 Platforms

His Highness Sheikh Hamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Chief, Abu Dhabi Crown Prince’s Court, and Chairman of the Board of Trustees of Khalifa University, and His Excellency Dr Thani bin Ahmed Al Zeyoudi, Minister of Climate Change and Environment, visited the Khalifa University stand at the World Future Energy Forum 2019 that was held from 14 – 17 January as part of the Abu Dhabi Sustainable Week (ADSW) 2019 at the Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Center (ADNEC). The event brought together investors and service providers in the global sustainability sector.

Khalifa University showcased a total of five sustainable concepts in research innovation at the event. The university also announced key research collaborations with local and international organizations, marking its prime role advancing new solutions and technologies in the renewable energy and sustainable technologies areas.

The four-day WFES, inaugurated on 14 January focused on the intellectual leadership of sustainability while facilitating partnerships between innovators and investors in energy platforms, climate change, water and the future of mobility, space, bio-technology and technology sectors.

Some of the projects that were featured at the Khalifa University stand (Hall 4; Booth A401) include advance material for CO2 capture, the Masdar Institute Solar Platform, the Sustainable Bioenergy Research Consortium’s (SBRC) flagship Seawater Energy and Agriculture System (SEAS) project and its path-breaking commercial flight with biofuel, conversion of waste cooking oil to biodiesel in the UAE and a condition monitoring system with multi-agent mechanism for external non-contact smart inspection of buried oil and gas pipelines.

Dr. Arif Sultan Al Hammadi, Executive Vice-President, Khalifa University of Science and Technology, said: “For Khalifa University, the premier gathering of the global sustainability sector at World Future Energy Summit 2019 offers the perfect platform to interact with energy industry leaders and explore potential collaborations. It is also an occasion to highlight Masdar Institute’s research accomplishments and showcase its capabilities in clean energy and sustainable technologies for the benefit of the international corporate majors. We believe this year’s participation in WFES activities will give us the impetus to further advance our research and innovation expertise in areas such as energy storage, mobility, solar, energy efficiency, waste-to-energy, water and environment, advanced materials, as well as carbon capture to help increase the contribution of clean energy to the UAE’s total energy mix in an efficient, safe and economical manner.”

Additionally, Khalifa University higher officials and faculty lead knowledge exchange across various WFES platforms. Dr Steve Griffiths, Senior Vice-President for Research and Development and Professor of Practice, Khalifa University, shared his perspectives in a session titled ‘In Conversation: The foreign relations of energy transition – positioning the Gulf’ at the Energy Forum.

Dr. Steve Griffiths said: “Khalifa University is proud to showcase new technologies at the World Future Energy Summit, which has gathered leaders across key technology and sustainability platforms that include artificial intelligence, energy, environment, water, health and space. These leaders are contributing to knowledge exchange, highlighting innovations and advancing solutions to global challenges in sustainability. We believe participation in this year’s summit effectively showcases Khalifa University’s capabilities in research, development and innovation across the sustainability spectrum.”

Dr. Nicolas Calvet, Assistant Professor, College of Engineering, and Chair of the Masdar Institute Solar Platform – Khalifa University, is speaking about concentrated solar power (CSP) industry during a session titled ‘Research Insight: Overcoming CSP’s challenges’ at the Solar Forum. Dr. Mohammad Abu Zahra, Associate Professor, Department of Chemical Engineering, and his team are presenting their work on advance materials for CO2 capture, including three individual projects.

Clarence Michael
News Writer
16 January 2019

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Alumnus Wins Mohamed bin Rashid Government Excellence Award

Mohamed Al Harbi First Emirati to Join FANR with Nuclear Engineering Master’s Degree

Khalifa University (KU) alumnus and Federal Authority for Nuclear Regulation (FANR) Specialist in Resident Inspection Mohamed Al Harbi has won the fifth cycle of the Mohamed bin Rashid Government Excellence Award.

He was among the first batch of Master’s graduates in Nuclear Engineering from the Khalifa University of Science, Technology and Research (KUSTAR) in 2013, which merged with two other universities to become KU in 2017, and went on to become the first Emirati with a Master’s degree in Nuclear Engineering to join FANR.

“The Mohamed bin Rashid Government Excellence Award would not have been possible for me without the kind of quality education I received from Khalifa University. During my studies, I gained knowledge, skills and the right attitude that have helped me to become the man I am today. For this, I thank my beloved Khalifa University,” Al Harbi proudly shared.

Having won the FANR Director-General Medal for the ‘Best Field Employee’ in 2018, Al Harbi was nominated from FANR for the fifth cycle of Mohamed bin Rashid Government Excellence Award. After a rigorous process of selection, assessments and interviews, he was selected for the award from among 40 other competitors across various UAE federal entities.

He said: “Reaching the final stage of nomination and winning the medal required courage, huge effort, creativity, passion and agility, and you only succeed if you sustain till the last moment. By winning this award I have achieved a significant milestone in my personal and career life, and I am sure I still have more to achieve and contribute to the UAE’s vision to become among the best countries in the world.”

Al Harbi joined FANR in 2012 as Nuclear Security Engineer and was promoted in 2017 to Specialist Resident Inspector at the Barakah Nuclear Power Plant. He has successfully played his role in the implementation of nuclear safety-related inspections including construction inspection and test plan (CITP), serving as subject matter expert in special inspections, and implementing FANR’s Emergency Response Organization (FERO) Nuclear Assessment Team procedures and processes.

As a Master’s student, Al Harbi has published three scientific papers in respected scientific journals on his thesis ‘Quantitative Evaluation of Operator’s Situation Awareness during Nuclear Power Plant Transients using Eye Tracking System’. He also presented his study results to His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi and Deputy Supreme Commander of the UAE Armed Forces, during his visit to the Khalifa University Campus.

Al Harbi wants to pursue his PhD in Nuclear Engineering, probably by 2020, but only after gaining practical and hands-on experience from his residency at Barakah.

He added: “My research area is related to the human factor in a nuclear power plant’s main control room. Clearly, research in this area will help the UAE project and the country in the advanced main control room research areas, similar to advanced nuclear countries.”

Al Harbi completed the Gulf Nuclear Energy Infrastructure Institute (GENII) course at Khalifa University back in 2013, and was invited as a speaker at the University for the NUCE614 and IICS691 classes.

From a personal perspective, he would like to join the ‘UAE National Experts Program. “This will help me achieve all of my future goals by developing a new set of leadership skills which in return would enable FANR to achieve its core values, vision and mission,” remarked Al Harbi.

Clarence Michael
News Writer
21 January 2019

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Open Day to Welcome Prospective Scientists, Innovators and Future Leaders

Visiting Students and Families to Gain Insights into University’s Comprehensive Academic, Research and Scholarship Offerings

Khalifa University will welcome aspiring scientists, innovators and future leaders to enroll at the university during an ‘Open Day’ that will be organized on 26 January when it will showcase its comprehensive academic, research and scholarship offerings.

The event at the Khalifa University Main Campus will feature highlights of the programs and facilities, including the dedicated laboratories, research centers, student life facilities, and student projects.

The internationally top-ranked Khalifa University offers a wide range of research-focused, laboratory-oriented Bachelor’s, Master’s and PhD programs. At present, the university offers 12 Bachelor’s, 16 Master’s and two PhD programs with 12 concentrations, providing abundant options for students to make their academic selection. The University’s current faculty body of over 300 represent 40 countries, while 55 countries are represented in student body of more than 3,300.

Already a favorite institution for UAE national and expatriate students, Khalifa University has steadily increased its profile and ranking among the regional and international universities. In the most recent Times Higher Education (THE) rankings Khalifa University was top-ranked in ‘Industry Income’ while remaining among the top 200 for Engineering & Technology subjects. Overall the University is placed in the 301-350 berth by the THE rankings, while the 2019 Quacquarelli Symonds (QS) World University Rankings placed the university 315th overall globally, among the top 31% of the 1,011 global institutions assessed.

Dr. Arif Sultan Al Hammadi, Executive Vice President at Khalifa University said: “Global rankings, faculty expertise, ample research opportunities in the UAE’s strategic areas, as well as our comprehensive academic offerings make Khalifa University one of the most preferred among the universities in the entire region. Driven by the commitment to contribute to the UAE’s human and intellectual capital development, Khalifa University continues to maintain its lead position with a large portfolio of research innovations and patents. For young students interested in exploring science, technology, engineering, healthcare and related areas, Khalifa University offers the perfect environment to study and build skills required for the future.”

Prospective students will also have the advantage of working with continually evolving interdisciplinary, collaborative research centers in the UAE’s priority science and technology domains. The research centers cover nuclear engineering, robotics, aerospace, biomedical engineering, artificial intelligence, data science and information security, water and environmental engineering, space systems, smart technologies, advanced materials, hydrocarbon exploration and production, as well as renewable energy, and energy storage.

Moreover, students are offered comprehensive scholarships covering educational expenses, as well as an opportunity to earn a monthly stipend. They include Buhooth Scholarships, Graduate Research / Teaching Assistant (GRTA) Scholarships, Waived-Fees Scholarships and Research Center Sponsorships.

A team of staff, faculty and students will provide information on the admission formalities, the criteria and advice on the possible choices available for potential students depending on their academic background.

All students have access to world-class research facilities, a comprehensive academic library, and other facilities, including various clubs, as well as sports and health centers.

For more information about the Open Day, please contact 800 33 22 11 or visit www.khalifauniversity.ac.ae

Clarence Michael
News Writer
22 January 2019

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KU Career Fair 2019 Attracts Leading Government and Corporate Recruiters

Local and International Companies Attend to Recruit Upcoming Khalifa University Graduates, Attract Interns, and Explore Research Collaborations

The Khalifa University Main Campus attracted some 50 leading government organizations and international corporate majors who were on a talent-hunt to recruit the best students with diverse skill sets during the annual Career Fair 2019 on 23 January.

Local organizations including the Abu Dhabi Investment Council (ADIC), Telecommunications Regulatory Authority (TRA), Etisalat, du, Abu Dhabi National Oil Company (ADNOC), National Petroleum Construction Company (NPCC), the UAE Ministry of Education, Etihad Airways, Mohammed Bin Rashid Space Centre, DP World, and Raytheon Emirates, participated in the fair, which was organized by the KU Career Services department.

Major international companies that were part of the event included Schlumberger, Diehl Group CISCO, Samsung Engineering, Siemens, SNC-Lavalin, and ABB Industries. The annual event aims to establish links between upcoming graduates and potential employers.

These local and international companies and governmental organizations were attracted to KU’s annual Career Fair due to its top international ranking and the caliber of its graduates. At present, the Times Higher Education (THE) World University Subject Rankings for Engineering & Technology, has placed KU among the top 200, out of a total of 900 institutions assessed across more than 70 countries. KU shares the top spot with 11 other select international institutions in the ‘industry income’ pillar, which signifies knowledge transfer, according to the 2019 THE World University Rankings.

The Career Services department organizes this event each year to give KU students the opportunity to identify appropriate placements for future internships and raise their awareness about various career opportunities in today’s competitive job market. At the same time, the event also opens opportunities for organizations and companies to contribute to the Emiratization efforts by giving them access to top-class Emirati students, while seeking the right candidates who have the potential to become future leaders. The Career Fair also offers KU faculty an opportunity to interact with organizations for collaborative research and scholarship prospects.

Clarence Michael
News Writer
23 January 2019

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IMF Managing Director Christine Lagarde Visits Khalifa University’s Masdar City Campus

Reviews Khalifa University Students’ Projects in Renewable-Powered Hydrogen Production Plants and Sustainable Water Desalination Technologies

Christine Lagarde, the Managing Director of the International Monetary Fund (IMF), toured Khalifa University of Science and Technology’s Masdar City Campus during her visit to the Abu Dhabi Future Energy Company (‘Masdar’) to witness the progress of Abu Dhabi’s flagship sustainable urban community and learn how investment in youth is helping the UAE to deliver on the UN Sustainable Development Goals.

Lagarde met with young students and researchers of Khalifa University, who presented their research projects, which covered a range of topics including renewable-powered hydrogen production plants and sustainable water desalination technologies.

The visit also included a tour of Khalifa University of Science and Technology’s cutting-edge research laboratories and presentations from three innovative start-up companies supported by The Catalyst – a joint venture between Masdar, Khalifa University’s Masdar Institute, and multinational energy company BP.

Lagarde, on her visit to Masdar City, said: “It is inspiring to hear so many young people speak so passionately about their collective drive towards achieving the UN’s sustainable development goals. We rely on the next generation to continue to innovate and find solutions to address our global sustainability challenges.”

Dr Arif Sultan Al Hammadi, Executive Vice-President, Khalifa University of Science and Technology, said: “We welcome Christine Lagarde to Masdar Institute and her interest in advanced research projects in energy and water-related areas, which demonstrate our status as a top-ranked academic institution dedicated to encouraging sustainable initiatives among the youth.

“Khalifa University’s 16 research centers that drive intellectual capital creation are focused on the UAE’s strategically essential sectors such as clean energy, aerospace, nuclear engineering, robotics, artificial intelligence, nanotechnology as well as oil and gas. We believe Lagarde’s visit will help highlight our scientific research in sustainability among the other United Nations organizations and the benefits they bring to the wider global community.”

Lagarde, who has led the IMF since 2011 and provides financial oversight for its 189 member countries, was briefed on this year’s Abu Dhabi Sustainability Week (ADSW) and how a number of its key initiatives including the Zayed Sustainability Prize, WiSER, Youth 4 Sustainability, and the Masdar Emerging Leaders Programme are empowering youth to become active sustainability leaders.

ADSW 2019 also hosted the inaugural Abu Dhabi Sustainable Finance Forum, at which 25 public and private sector organizations, including Masdar, committed to support the Abu Dhabi Sustainable Finance Declaration to jointly advocate sustainable finance and investment that fosters positive social, economic and environmental impacts.

“We are delighted to receive Christine Lagarde at Masdar City, especially at a time when the nation is observing Innovation Month, so that she can see the investment the UAE is making in sustainable development, and the role we at Masdar and other stakeholders are playing in empowering youth through knowledge, innovation and entrepreneurship,” said Mohamed Jameel Al Ramahi, Chief Executive Officer of Masdar.

“Youth engagement is a core element of our commitment at Masdar to help the UAE achieve its sustainability goals. This opportunity to share insights on these initiatives with Lagarde, and benefit from her vast experience, will help us encourage even more young UAE nationals to become involved in the sustainability sector, whether in research, entrepreneurship, or raising awareness.”

The companies nurtured by The Catalyst and exhibited included BonApp, a mobile application designed to reduce food waste by allowing consumers to purchase fresh but unsold food from restaurants at a discount; De L’Arta, a company specialising in sustainable soil regeneration techniques as well as natural skincare products extracted from UAE native plants; and The Febits, which utilizes autonomous sea-surface cleaning robots to clear oil spills and pollutants.

As part of the tour, Lagarde participated in a roundtable discussion titled ‘Rising to the challenge: how UAE youth are taking the lead on sustainability’. Discussions focused on how government, the private sector and non-profit community are all collaborating to empower youth to shape the sustainability agenda, with input from young participants representing multiple initiatives.

Findings of a Masdar-commissioned global survey of youth attitudes towards sustainability, climate change and renewable energy, indicating that young people are willing to take the lead in finding solutions to climate change, were also debated, along with Masdar-led research released at ADSW 2019 concerning the technologies expected to have the most impact on sustainable development over the next five years.

10 February 2019
Abu Dhabi, UAE

 

 

 

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Khalifa University Hosts 2019 Think Science Competition; Winners to Showcase Projects at National-Level Final Stage in April 2019

Participants Showcase Prototypes and Scientific Concepts across Various Think Science Competition Categories

A large number of school students from grades 9-12 as well as university students from undergraduate and diploma levels showcased their prototypes and scientific concepts at the 2019 Think Science Competition that was hosted at Khalifa University today. Winners in various categories were declared at the competition that aims to engage more talented youth from across the UAE for innovative ideas in different applied sciences and technology disciplines.

The winners from each Emirate now qualify to showcase their projects at the Think Science National Competition 2019 Awarding Ceremony, which will be held in April 2019.

Participants displayed their innovative skills in all the categories including robots and artificial intelligence, applied chemistry, applied physics, industrial and mechanical systems, smart systems, safety systems, transportation and road safety systems, systems for the benefit of the determined ones, energy, environmental sciences, health and biomedical systems, material sciences, as well as aviation, aerodynamics, and vehicles designs.

Dr Arif Sultan Al Hammadi, Executive Vice-President, Khalifa University of Science and Technology, said: “We are honored to host the 2019 Think Science Competition, enabling the youth to test their creative skills in science and technology. The range of projects showcased here by these students illustrate the impact of scientific knowledge and their enthusiasm to obtain practical solutions. We believe such challenges help nurture budding talents, paving the way for their appetite for innovations to multiply even more when they enter their professional lives.”

The 2019 Think Science Competition was part of Khalifa University’s calendar of events and activities organized as part of the 2019 UAE Innovation Month to inspire, educate, and engage the community on innovations in science, technology, arts, and engineering.

The globally top-ranked university earlier this month hosted the 2019 UAE Hackathon themed ‘Data for Happiness and Well-being’ that was organized by the Telecommunications Regulatory Authority (TRA). As an academic partner to Mubtakir and Abu Dhabi Science Festival (ADSF)

2019, Khalifa University presented three innovative engineering students projects – Farming Robot, Search and Rescue (SAR) Drone Project and Pollination DRONE (PD-Drone) at the Mubtakir 2019.

The university also provided around 100 volunteers to work as science communicators during ADSF 2019. Moreover, Ankabut organized its 15th Annual Users Meeting, gathering nearly 300 stakeholders to discuss the role of technology in education.

With research and innovation remaining the core strategic areas, Khalifa University continues to excel in the development of human and intellectual capital while entering into advanced technology collaborations with industry leaders. The university has so far attracted over US$80 million in industry and government sponsored research contracts with more than 50 organizations based in the UAE and worldwide. At the same time, its 16 dedicated research centers have so far facilitated over 70 patents, more than 350 invention disclosures and published over 5,000 articles in top journals.

Clarence Michael
News Writer
24 February 2019

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Khalifa University and UAE Space Agency to Host Leading NASA Scientist in Abu Dhabi

Dr. Thomas H. Zurbuchen to Lead Seminar on Space Exploration and NASA Missions that Continue to Transform Humanity

Dr. Thomas H. Zurbuchen, Associate Administrator, Science Mission Directorate, National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA), US, will be delivering a seminar on space exploration as part of a knowledge exchange initiative organized by Khalifa University in collaboration with the UAE Space Agency.

The seminar titled ‘Explore Science: The Transformative Journey’ will be held on 20 March at Khalifa University Main Campus. A large number of representatives from the UAE Space Agency, international and regional space science professionals and industry stakeholders in addition to government dignitaries will be present at the seminar.

Dr Arif Sultan Al Hammadi, Executive Vice-President, Khalifa University of Science and Technology, said: “We are delighted to host Dr. Zurbuchen, an eminent scientist from NASA for this knowledge sharing event in one of the strategic sectors for the UAE. As the Emirati astronauts are getting ready for their eight-day mission to the International Space Station (ISS) in September this year, it has become vital for stakeholders in the academic sector to highlight the importance of advancements in science and technology for space exploration to the youth in the UAE. We believe Dr. Zurbuchen’s insights will significantly benefit students, scientists and researchers, who will be encouraged to take up careers as space explorers and astronauts.”

Dr. Zurbuchen will speak about how NASA’s transformative journey invariably begins with science questions, driven by the human desire to learn more about the universe and their positive impact on life on Earth. He will also elaborate on the benefits of the past and present NASA missions and the historic changes that have led humanity to rewrite the textbooks.

In short, Dr. Zurbuchen will emphasize the importance of taking small steps beyond the conventional boundaries that could lead to big goals. He will also throw light on some of the incremental improvements especially in in technology and human understanding of nature, that continue to allow us to obtain scientific knowledge on such a massive scale.

Author of more than 200 articles in refereed journals in solar and heliospheric phenomena, Dr. Zurbuchen has also been involved with several NASA science missions involving planet Mercury, the Sun and other heavenly objects. Dr. Zurbuchen earned his Ph.D. in Physics and Master of Science degree in Physics from the University of Bern in Switzerland. He is a recipient of several awards including the National Science and Technology Council Presidential Early Career for Scientists and Engineers (PECASE) Award in 2004 and three NASA Group Achievement Awards.

News Writer
18 March 2019

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EBTIC at Khalifa University Partner with UAE Ministry of Education to Host 4th Innovation and Entrepreneurship Bootcamp for School Students

Top 50 Talented Students Selected from UAE Schools to Learn about Innovation Process, Business Development, Commercialization Skills and IP Issues at Four-Day Bootcamp

The Emirates ICT Innovation Center (EBTIC) and Khalifa University of Science and Technology, in collaboration with the UAE Ministry of Education, are organizing the fourth Innovation and Entrepreneurship Bootcamp to teach the young Emirati students ways to turn fledgling ideas into a feasible business ventures in the future.

Organized under the patronage of His Excellency Hussain Ibrahim Al Hammadi, UAE Minister of Education, the bootcamp will be held from March 31 – April 3. It will teach participating students the innovation process, business development, commercialization skills, entrepreneurship and Intellectual Property (IP) issues.

A total of top 50 talented students have already been selected from schools across UAE to participate in the four-day bootcamp. Their selection was based on the winning projects they had submitted for the UAE National Science, Technology and Innovation (NSTI) Festival 2019, an event modelled after Ireland’s successful BT Young Scientist and Technology Exhibition (BTYSTE). The Bootcamp will be developed and delivered in partnership with British Telecommunications (BT) and EBTIC.

Dr. Nawaf Al Moosa, Acting Director of EBTIC and Assistant Professor at Khalifa Universitysaid: “The fourth Innovation and Entrepreneurship Bootcamp by EBTIC is designed to inspire young students to effectively plan and execute their business concepts through the path of innovation. We are delighted to host this event for the students, offering them a platform for charting their future course. We believe the bootcamp this year will help nurture the talented students who can hone their skillsets for developing into full-fledged professionals in various business sectors.”

The students will be divided into teams of six each, with a professional mentor, and they will be guided through a series of interactive workshops and challenges with the purpose of developing a business or investment proposition around a specific project. Expert speakers will also cover interesting and relevant topics such as innovation, intellectual property and creativity during the workshops.

On the final day of the bootcamp, students will present their business plans as a team to a judging panel comprising academics and senior business executives or professionals, selected from industry, academia, government and media.

EBTIC is an ICT research and innovation center founded by Khalifa University of Science and Technology, Etisalat and BT, and supported by ICT Fund.

News Writer
24 March 2019

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Khalifa University Launches Arab Region’s First Joint PhD Scholarship Program with China’s CSC

Agreement with China Scholarship Council to Bring up to 30 PhD Students A Year to Study at Khalifa University

 Khalifa University of Science and Technology and the China Scholarship Council (CSC) today launched the region’s first Joint PhD Scholarship Program, enabling up to 30 Chinese students each year to pursue their PhD studies at the Khalifa University. The two partners will share in the funding responsibility for the PhD students.

An agreement between Khalifa University and the CSC, the Chinese Ministry of Education’s non-profit organization dedicated to providing student financial aid to Chinese citizens, was signed earlier to launch the joint funding of this program.

Dr. Arif Sultan Al Hammadi, Executive Vice-President, Khalifa University of Science and Technology, said: “We are delighted to have entered into this scholastic partnership with the CSC, which selects only the top universities around the world for its joint scholarship programs. The agreement is another international acknowledgement of Khalifa University’s world class educational and research offerings, which have been top ranked in the country and region. Khalifa University looks forward to receiving the Chinese students selected through this program, who we know will bring more diversity to our international student body and introduce innovative ideas through their PhD research.”

“The Khalifa University agreement with the CSC is also in line with the Abu Dhabi Government’s Research Funding Vision 2021 that aims to widen the role of expatriates in research development while acknowledging and rewarding their efforts,” Dr Al Hammadi added.

His Excellency NI Jian, Chinese Ambassador to the UAE, said:” Khalifa University is one of the most prestigious universities in the Middle East. The CSC-Khalifa University Joint PhD Scholarship Program is not only a significant milestone in the higher education and innovation cooperation between China and the UAE, but also an important step towards implementing the fruitful outcomes of Chinese President Xi Jinping’s visit to the UAE last year. China is ready to work closely with the UAE to further enhance high-level educational, cultural and personnel exchange and strengthen the comprehensive strategic partnership between our two countries.”

The selected Chinese PhD students, who are required to maintain a minimum CGPA of 3.5 out of 4.0 during their studies at Khalifa University, will receive scholarship coverage for up to 48 months. Upon completion of the PhD program requirements and successful thesis defense, the Chinese students will be conferred PhD degrees from Khalifa University.

With the signing of this agreement, Khalifa University joins the ranks of other world-class institutions such as Yale University, Princeton University, University of Toronto, University of Oxford, which have similar joint scholarship programs with the Chinese financial aid body. Khalifa University is also the first higher educational institute in the Arab Region and Africa to have such an arrangement with the CSC, while the CSC sponsors about 68,000 Chinese students and scholars every year for overseas study or research.

Khalifa University’s student body represents 54 different nationalities, with strong representation from China. It also has faculty from 49 countries, including graduates from China’s leading universities.

News Writer
27 March 2019