Keynote Address Highlights Abu Dhabi’s Government’s Contribution towards Creating Knowledge-Based Economy

Abu Dhabi-UAE: 18 December, 2011 – Tangible actions by the global environmental data and information community to bridge and rectify the growing obstacle to information gap will help in the conservation of our planet, said Dr Fred Moavenzadeh, President of Masdar Institute of Science and Technology, an independent, research-driven graduate-level university focused on advanced energy and sustainable technologies.

Dr Moavenzadeh’s remarks came during his presentation titled ‘Moving the World Forward’ at the Eye on Earth 2011 Summit and Exhibition in Abu Dhabi that concluded on 15 December at the Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre (ADNEC). The presentation was rooted in the ideals of sustainability and education propagated by the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, the Founding Father of the UAE.

Organized under the patronage of The UAE President His Highness Sheikh Khalifa Bin Zayed Al Nahyan, the Eye on Earth Abu Dhabi Summit aimed to address topics related to environmental information networking, including disaster management, oceans and blue carbon, water security, innovative cities, as well as networks beyond information technology.

Giving an overview of Abu Dhabi Government’s Masdar initiative, Dr Moavenzadeh’s said: “The 21st Century has begun by moving the world towards a knowledge-based economy, compared to the agrarian nature of the 19th century and the industrialization and cold war of the 20th century.  This does not, however, mean we are giving up manufacturing or agriculture, but those two areas are becoming more and more automated with the major concern now focusing clearly on the environment and climate change.”

Highlighting the commitment to tackle these challenges, Dr Moavenzadeh said the Abu Dhabi Government launched the Masdar initiative. He said: “Masdar is endeavoring to move the world forward towards addressing the issues of environment and the opportunities that exist at this juncture. The UAE leadership seeks to actively participate in addressing the issues of environment, energy and climate change and to diversify the economy toward a knowledge-based one with emphasis on clean technology.”

Elaborating on the holistic and multidimensional approach to fulfilling the mission, Dr Moavenzadeh said Abu Dhabi is focusing on a two-pronged strategy – capital formation and market creation. The former will include human, intellectual and financial while the latter will cover start-ups, joint ventures and entrepreneurship, he pointed out.

Dr Moavenzadeh added: “Masdar Initiative was established in response to the commitment of Abu Dhabi to develop a comprehensive and holistic approach to tackle issues of environment and sustainable technology, develop the complete value chain that includes human resource, R&D capacity, venture capital, start-ups, and joint venture with major global firms. It also aims to create public awareness through platforms such as the World Future Energy Summit (WFES) and the Zayed Future Energy Prize (ZFEP). The successful attempt to locate the International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA) in Abu Dhabi is also part of this initiative.”

Speaking about Masdar Institute that was set up by with Abu Dhabi Government with the ongoing collaboration with Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), Dr Moavenzadeh added that the graduate-level research-driven institute aims to promote industry and government partnership.

Regionally, Masdar Institute is also the lead institution representing the GCC in the EU-GCC Clean Energy Network, which aims to advance the common interest between the EU and the GCC regions for strategic energy cooperation. The Clean Energy Network focuses on energy demand side management and energy efficiency, clean natural gas and related clean technologies, electricity interconnection and market integration, carbon capture and storage, as well as renewable energy sources.

Dr Moavenzadeh concluded: “We should not be constantly reinventing the wheel; therefore, access to and sharing of existing and vital information is not a luxury but a necessity and access to quality data is crucial, but often unavailable to poorer communities. Only through free flow of information will the world find solutions to preserve the plant.”

Established in 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.
 

 

Highlights Need to Construct Energy-Efficient Buildings in Interview with Dr Lamya Fawwaz of Masdar Institute

Abu Dhabi-UAE: 15 December, 2011 – Maximizing mass transportation, increasing geothermal power capabilities, and recycling plastic materials and glass could go a long way in mitigating and tackling greenhouse gas emissions in urban areas across the world, according to President Bill Clinton, the 42nd President of the US and Founder of The William J. Clinton Foundation that implements the Clinton Climate Initiative (CCI).

During a special interview with Dr Lamya Fawwaz, Executive Director, Public Affairs, Masdar Institute of Science and Technology, at the Eye on Earth 2011 Summit and Exhibition in Abu Dhabi, President Clinton spoke about the reduction of greenhouse emissions by promoting green buildings, recycling, promotion of clean energy, and sharing of data especially during post-disaster relief management.

President Clinton pointed out that it is imperative to construct buildings that are more efficient in the developed as well as developing countries. He added that all the options need to be explored to make the efforts economically viable too. He hoped that in his lifetime he would like to see the day when every landfill in every big city in the world is rid of and all plastic materials and glass could be recycled, while jobs would be available for people in the developing countries. He also said that the world community would benefit a lot if the organic materials could be given over to making fertilizers for farmers and the rest used for energy.

Emphasizing the need for preserving coastal wetlands, the former US President also said that more than early warning systems, preservation of ecology could save people from natural disasters. President Clinton cited a study carried out post-Hurricane Katrina, which revealed that if the wetlands had been left as they were on the New Orleans coast, it would have cut the speed of the water and potentially reduced the damage by nearly 90%. He said he firmly believes in prevention which is a better part of the preparation than response when it comes to facing the fury of Mother Nature.

Dr Lamya Fawwaz’s interview with President Clinton is part of Masdar Institute’s initiative to engage with global leaders to raise awareness on the need for sustainability in all walks of life. As the Executive Director of Public Affairs, Dr Fawwaz is responsible for the public relations of the institute and as such provides support on communications, policy issues and relations with both internal and external constituencies.

In addition to offering advice and direct support to the President of Masdar Institute as well as the senior administration, Dr. Fawwaz is also responsible for developing and overseeing regional and international recruitment, as well as the development and implementation of strategies for outreach to the UAE community and local universities.

Dr. Lamya Fawwaz holds a PhD in Higher Education Administration, an MSc in Information System Technology, and a Bachelor of Business Administration in management information systems and a minor in Fine Arts from The George Washington University, US.

Established in 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.
 

 

Some Students Express Interest in Summer Internship Program and YFEL Membership to Contribute to Developing Clean Energy Sector

Abu Dhabi-UAE: 6 December, 2011 – Masdar Institute of Science and Technology, an independent, research-driven graduate-level university focused on advanced energy and sustainable technologies, today welcomed 28 women Architectural Engineering students, 23 of them Emiratis, from the UAE University.

Dr. Kenneth Volk, Outreach Manager, Masdar Institute, offered a presentation to the students illustrating the design orientation and architecture of the buildings, natural lighting aspects, features that facilitate cooler ground-level breeze and other sustainable elements.

The UAEU Architectural Engineering students were keen to learn more about the smart buildings and the technologies that make the buildings more sustainable. Additionally, they were also informed on the areas including smart grid, smart infrastructure and smart buildings that Masdar Institute will be conducting further research in collaboration with industry leaders.

Dr. Lamya Fawwaz, Executive Director of Public Affairs, Masdar Institute, said: “The visit was another example of the proactive role Masdar Institute plays in spreading awareness on sustainable energy and clean technologies. The smart architecture and the design of the various buildings at Masdar Institute that are constructed with the environment in mind serve as a powerful inspiration for tomorrow’s leaders to emulate. It was also an opportunity for the visiting students to learn in detail about our graduate programs on advanced technology, research offerings and scholarship opportunities.

“At the same time visiting students learnt about our outreach programs that aim to engage the youth to effectively contribute to developing clean technologies through interacting with today’s energy industry leaders. It is a privilege to welcome students from academic institutions who visit us to gain an understanding about various programs at Masdar Institute. We sincerely thank the country’s wise leadership for their guidance that has made Masdar Institute one of the renowned institutions in clean energy and advanced technologies.”

Earlier, the students were received by Samar Al Harbi, Student Enrollment Officer, and Sara Al Junaibi, Outreach Officer, Masdar Institute. After arriving at the campus via the sustainable Personal Rapid Transport (PRT) pod cars, the students toured the campus to view the various sustainable features including the Wind Tower at the Courtyard as well as the environment-friendly buildings that make Masdar Institute one of the unique academic institutions in the world.

Some of the visiting UAEU students were also interested in participating in the Masdar Institute Research Experience for Undergraduate Students (MI-REUS) program, a four-week summer internship program. Organized by Masdar Institute for UAE national students who are university seniors, the program attracts a number of applicants studying science, engineering and information technology every year.

Among the 28 UAEU female students, most of them expressed their interest in applying for the Young Future Energy Leaders (YFEL) program, a Masdar Institute outreach program managed by Masdar Institute. The pre-eminent program aims to educate, inspire and position students and young professionals to become future leaders capable of solving the world’s most pressing challenges in advanced energy and sustainability.

During the year-long program in 2011, the YFEL members had an opportunity to attend the opening and closing ceremonies of the World Future Energy Summit (WFES) in Abu Dhabi, network with industry leaders and visit the WFES clean technology exhibition, attend the Zayed Future Energy Prize Awards Ceremony (ZFEP), and contribute to debates featured in the YFEL 2011 schedule of programs.

In addition, participants were involved not only in the YFEL at WFES, but also participated in the educational courses on policy, leadership and technology. Moreover, select YFEL members attended the European Future Energy Forum 2011 in Geneva while other members participated in the two-week Summer Practical Course at Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) in Boston, US.

Established in 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.
 

 

‘World Needs More Clean Energy Initiatives Like Masdar’, Says US Ambassador Michael Corbin

Abu Dhabi-UAE: 1st December, 2011 – Masdar Institute of Science and Technology, an independent, research-driven graduate-level university focused on advanced energy and sustainable technologies, today marked the UAE’s 40th National Day with traditional festivities at the sustainable campus.

His Excellency Michael H. Corbin, US Ambassador to the UAE, was the special guest on the occasion. The US Ambassador, who was at the campus to deliver a lecture, was joined by His Excellency Dr. Sultan Al Jaber, Chief Executive Officer of Masdar, Dr. Fred Moavenzadeh, President of Masdar Institute, Dr Joe Cecchi, Provost, Hamza Kazim, Vice-President for Operations and Finance, Dr. Lamya Fawwaz, Executive Director, Public Affairs, other officials, faculty and students.

The day’s events began with the playing of the UAE National Anthem by the 50-member Abu Dhabi Police Music Band and the arrival of guests in the Courtyard area around the 45-meter high Wind Tower, the modern interpretation of the traditional barjeel.

In his lecture titled ‘Masdar’s and the US’ role on Regional Energy Strategies’ on 29 November at the Masdar Institute campus, Ambassador Corbin said: “As we celebrate the UAE’s 40th anniversary of the formation of the federation, it is important to note that the US and UAE have long enjoyed a dynamic, multi-faceted partnership based upon strong political, security, trade, and economic ties. Energy and education, two sectors you know well, are areas of partnership that were well under way even before the founding of the UAE.”

“The Middle East is currently facing immense challenges and yet also offers immense opportunities. The UAE’s vision, and the path it has taken to develop to where it is today, offers a path for the region to transform itself; a paradigm for how we can work together and use our combined economic, diplomatic, and security assets to bring positive change. The UAE, for its part, has become a regional leader in renewable energy, finance, education, intellectual innovation, media, construction and diplomacy, to name only a few fields. Renewable energy is a vital component, with significant room to expand.”

Ambassador Corbin added: “The world needs more clean energy initiatives like Masdar and despite the current challenges to the global economy, President Obama is still committed to creating green jobs in the US and bolstering American innovation in the renewable energy sector.”

He concluded: “Like the UAE, the Obama Administration recognizes the importance of developing new sources of energy, even as we continue to rely on hydrocarbons. The US Department of Energy has established the Advanced Research Projects Agency Energy (ARPA/E) to fund cutting-edge innovation in renewables. We feel there is substantial basis for cooperation between the US and the UAE in the area of research into and application of renewables and clean technology.”

The US Department of Energy has already signed a Memorandum of Understanding with Masdar for a wide range of cooperation including in areas such as solar, and carbon capture and storage.

Dr Fred Moavenzadeh said: “The celebrations at Masdar Institute campus to mark the 40th UAE National Day had all the ingredients to make it a special occasion. The visit by the US Ambassador and his lecture on energy that applauded the role of Masdar in advanced energy provided an additional impetus to the day’s events. We are grateful to the insights the US Ambassador shared with our faculty and students, as well as his participation in the National Day celebrations.”

Earlier, Ambassador Corbin joined the celebrations at the Masdar Institute campus, where students and members of Emirati Club responded to visitors’ queries about the UAE’s history and the region’s time-honored customs.

The entire complex of the sustainable Masdar Institute campus wore a festive look with arrays of images adorning the walls signifying the glorious past and the various phases of the UAE’s steady economic progress.

The ‘Video Wall’ displayed an animation graphics of the flag, while a white board beckoned Emirati staff and students to leave their fingerprints in the colors of the country’s flag.

A specially decorated Bedouin tent was erected to enable visitors to be instantly photographed, while a lady clothed in a dress made from recyclable items offered to pose with guests against an exclusively designed backdrop for photo-shoots.

Guests flocked henna artists and the Emirati food corner, while Ayallah dancers performed to traditional music at the Courtyard. A falcon with an Arab trainer and two camels with their handlers brought a true desert touch to the campus as eager visitors gathered for a closer look.

Dr. Lamya Fawwaz, Executive Director of Public Affairs, Masdar Institute, said: “The participation of dignitaries in the celebrations to mark the 40th UAE National Day at the Masdar Institute campus brought a distinct touch to the day’s events. The enthusiastic participation by Masdar Institute employees, students, and faculty members made the event more memorable to the visitors. We remain confident that the wider community will continue to carry the message of unity, complementing the economic progress achieved under the country’s wise leadership.”

Integrating theory and practice to incubate a culture of innovation and entrepreneurship, Masdar Institute works towards developing 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.
 

 

Members Gain Fresh Insights into New Industry Trends and Innovative Products at EFEF 2011 Cleantech Exhibition

Abu Dhabi-UAE: 29 November, 2011 – Access to global energy leaders, exposure to new technological trends and products, together with opportunities for mentoring and knowledge-sharing provide the most effective avenues for overall development of youth, affirm members of Young Future Energy Leaders (YFEL), an outreach program by Masdar Institute of Science and Technology.

YFEL is part of the ‘Future Energy’ series of events and a key element of the annual World Future Energy Summit (WFES). The program that develops tomorrow’s leaders in the fields of advanced energy and sustainability aims to educate, inspire and position students and young professionals to become future leaders capable of solving the world’s most pressing challenges in advanced energy and sustainability.
The October 2011 trip to Geneva for the European Future Energy Forum marked one such crucial moment in the YFEL program. For the 14-member YFEL team that attended the forum in Geneva, it was an occasion to listen to and witness some of the most interesting ‘IdeaStorm’ sessions that showcased interesting new clean technology trends and products.

It was the cleantech exhibition EFEF 2011 that offered a glimpse into a whole array of clean technology products. A battery electric vehicle (BEV) sports car from Tesla Motors, a special device by Clever Grid (Schweiz) GmbH that uses solar and wind energy to charge electric cars as well as any other equipment, high-vacuum flat solar thermal panels by Swiss firm TVP Solar, and bioMobile – a bio-fueled car that goes a long distance on very little biodiesel were only some of the products that found favor with the YFEL members.

Zainab Al Ali, Senior Outreach Officer and Coordinator of YFEL, Masdar Institute said: “The YFEL program sponsors members to various global forums for networking with industry leaders. Such visits help familiarize the youth with new trends and innovations in clean technology that offer business potential. The EFEF 2011 was one such occasion where such technologies were demonstrated in an environment for YFEL members to gauge and assess the new trends. Being an international forum, it also served as a source of inspiration for the youth to network with today’s energy leaders and innovators.”

YFEL member Asiya Al Ali has a strong interest in environment and energy. A graduate student in Environmental Health at Zayed University a young professional form Abu Dhabi Gas Liquefaction Company Ltd (ADGAS), Asiya said: “I was particularly amazed by the long-term thinking and the clear vision of the speakers. One speaker stated that the technology he is working on is not/or might not be useful now, but will bring benefits in future. This statement moved me, and left a lasting impact.”

Asiya also found the presentation by France-based 3D-Oxides highly engaging. The company works in partnership with ABCD Technology S.A., which commercializes Chemical Beam Epitaxy systems adapted to 3D-Oxides requirements. The presentation highlighted the importance of material science in sustainable development and the technology that can be used in traditional markets such as semiconductors, and micro electrons, as well as in newly emerging areas such as bio-photonics optronics, meta-materials, catalysis and fuel cells.
Osama Bu Shalat, a Mechatronics Bachelor’s student in Dubai Men’s College, was fascinated by the session titled ‘Discover the cutting edge on Photovoltaic’.

He said: “EFEF helped me share ideas and statistics of the past, understand future energy industry’s current status, forthcoming plans and expectations for the years ahead. But most of all, being an YFEL member was truly an enriching experience and I have benefited a lot in terms of knowledge, experience and meeting energy gurus.”

Although majoring in Humanities and Social Sciences with concentration in International Affairs, Cica Al Attas felt motivated by the session on the ‘Future of Concentrating Solar Power (CSP) – Central Tower Receiver with Molten Salt – the Gemasolar Plant’ in Spain. The plant commissioned by Torresol Energy – Masdar’s 40:60 joint venture with Spanish firm SENER – was officially inaugurated in October and can store energy for up to 15 hours even when there is no sunlight.

Al Attas said: “In order to achieve any dream to make our world a better place, including expanding the clean tech and renewable energy business, each of us must have a clear view of our strengths and weaknesses. Any kind of business investment requires a great deal of patience. In the renewable and clean tech energy industries, the government and private sectors must work hand in hand for the sake of the future generations.”
It was the ‘revolutionary’ Solar Impulse plane that captivated Ahmed Al Hashimi a young professional form Dubai Aluminium Company (DUBAL). Al Hashimi, holder of Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees in Environmental Science with focus on Environmental Biology, admired Dr. Bertrand Piccard, project initiator and chairman of the innovative Solar Impulse plane. The YFEL members viewed the plane at a hangar facility in Payerne near Geneva, where they were also briefed by Solar Impulse officials on its innovative features that make the aircraft fly solely on solar energy.
Muna A. Al Amoodi is enrolled for ‘Master of Science: Excellence in Environmental Management’ program with Hamdan bin Mohammed e-University. She finds Dr Bertrand Piccard well ahead of the times, but insists his own determination and support from a talented team as well as the government facilitated his success.

Rahman Olusegun Oloritun, a Masdar Institute student, however, expects to see more application for the bioMobile, a bio fueled car that goes a long distance on very little biodiesel. BioMobile is a prototype energy-efficient vehicle intended for entry in international competitions, such as the Shell Eco-Marathon, in which the aim is to cover the maximum number of kilometers with one liter of fuel.
Some of the new products displayed at the cleantech exhibition were so novel that they have profoundly inspired some creative young minds.
With his strong interest in engineering, business, and policy, Jared Dunnmon a graduate summa cum laude (‘with highest honor’) from Duke University in the US and currently studying at Oxford University on a Rhodes Scholarship, intends to model a good deal of his Ph.D. research off some of the work displayed in Geneva.

Dunnmon said: “One of the greatest examples that blends innovation and sustainability was the work of Dharik Mallapragada, a graduate research assistant in Chemical Engineering at Purdue University, US, who has spent the last several years working to find innovative, energy-efficient ways to form renewable liquid fuels from ambient carbonaceous atoms. Not only would such a technology enable significantly higher fuel production than is currently available from fossil fuels, but would contribute to progress towards a sustainable future.”
Dharik Mallapragada’s IdeaStorm session was engaging for Rana Qudaih, a Chemical and Mechanical Engineer, currently employed with DUCAB.

The Tesla Electric Roadster, a battery electric vehicle (BEV) sports car produced by Tesla Motors in California, US, attracted many YFEL members. For Dunnmon it was incredibly interesting not just from a technological standpoint, but from an economic one as well. He added: “It is perhaps more telling that the company plans to use the money from its first round of vehicles to finance a second line of electric cars that should be around half the price of the first one. By adhering to this kind of business model, Tesla very well may end up introducing the electric car to a wide user base. To me, that is incredibly exciting.”

The most appealing of all the sessions for Talal Al Hajeri, a Foundation Program student at Masdar Institute student, was the presentation on Guardian Angels – a set of nano-chips that monitor human activity and keep them alert of their conditions.
Jerry Stokes, President, Suntech Europe, and an energy industry leader, was one of the most appealing to several YFEL members. “I liked Stokes’ positive perspectives on renewable energy companies which he described as not unlike any other business that need to use the appropriate strategies, including branding, to succeed,” Rahman added.

All YFEL members believe that the program has helped them immensely and will continue to pave way for them to become future energy leaders.
Ismaeel Al Abdooli, a young professional from DP World, concurred and said: “The mentoring program was well-organized and dedicated to ensure YFEL members obtain the knowledge and experience required to be future ambassadors of renewable energy in their respective countries.”

Asbjorg Kristinsdottir is a doctoral researcher at MIT focused on risk and decision making for new power plant development projects. Looking ahead he says, “Programs such as the Young Professionals in Energy (YPE) Group and the Emerging Leaders in Environmental and Energy Policy (ELEEP) Network are some examples that YFEL can emulate. But I was able to use the whole range of the conference (EFEF 2011) through setting up a few meetings with professionals representing different areas of interest to my research work. I was able to conduct fruitful meetings during the half an hour allocated, collecting key information.”

Most of the YFEL members are looking forward to their schedule for the upcoming programs especially the next edition of World Future Energy Summit that will be held from 16-19 January, 2012 in Abu Dhabi.

As an independent, research-driven graduate-level university focused on advanced energy and sustainable technology, the Masdar Institute of Science and Technology continues to initiate programs that nurture the youth and prepared them to meet the challenges of tomorrow, especially in the energy sector.

Joint Initiative to Mark UAE’s 40th National Day and Emphasize Sustainability; Products to be Eventually Donated to UAE Red Crescent

Abu Dhabi-UAE: 28 November, 2011 – Masdar, Abu Dhabi’s multifaceted renewable energy company, and Masdar Institute of Science and Technology, an independent, research-driven graduate-level university focused on advanced energy and sustainable technologies, are partnering in a joint initiative that will blend the concepts of sustainability and charity to collectively mark the UAE’s 40th National Day.

As part of the celebrations to commemorate the Spirit of the Union, the country’s historic milestone, Masdar and Masdar Institute are inviting the diverse community of Emiratis and expats to donate non-food items to create a 40×28-meter UAE National Flag. The donated items are required to be in the four colors of the country’s flag, which will be displayed on the grounds of the futuristic Knowledge Center at the Institute’s campus at Masdar City.

Masdar employees and Masdar Institute students, faculty and staff will donate recyclable/reusable items in the colors of the national flag. Drop-in boxes will be kept at across the Masdar City complex for non-food items. All collected items will be used to create the flag and eventually donated to the UAE Red Crescent Society once the celebrations are over.

Aida Al Busaidy, Manager – Planning, Internal & Online Communications, Masdar, said: “The concept of Masdar takes its roots from the policy of sustainability and preservation of natural sources as offered to us by the Founding Father of the UAE, Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan. Therefore, it is only fitting to mark the UAE’s 40th anniversary with a joint initiative that reflects these ideals the country’s wise leadership continues to embrace. Wider participation by the community in this initiative will effectively ensure greater awareness on the need to save energy and the environment for future generation. We are confident the community will accept our invitation and demonstrate our collective commitment while contributing to charity as well.”

Shaima Al Jarman, External Communications Manager, Masdar Institute, said: “The UAE National Day is a historic occasion that offers the community an opportunity to unite and be proud of the country that has achieved remarkable progress within four decades. At the same time our joint initiative will also remain true to our mission and values of sustainability. The UAE is one of the few countries that have consistently supported the adoption of sustainable lifestyle and the 40th UAE National Day is the most appropriate moment to highlight this concept that additionally encourages us to think of the less privileged. We look forward to an enthusiastic participation from all members of the community.”

Masdar pushes the boundaries of future energy, while contributing to the transformation of the UAE’s economic landscape – enabling economic diversification and helping the country’s knowledge-intensive industries to grow.

Integrating theory and practice to incubate a culture of innovation and entrepreneurship, Masdar Institute works towards developing 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.
 

Several Key Milestones Mark another Remarkable Year for Research-Driven Academic Institution

Abu Dhabi-UAE: 22 November, 2011 – The Board of Trustees of Masdar Institute of Science and Technology, an independent, research-driven graduate-level university focused on advanced energy and sustainable technologies, held its annual meeting to review the achievements over the past year and consider the strategic and academic plan for 2012.

His Highness General Sheikh Mohammed Bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi and Deputy Supreme Commander of the UAE Armed Forces, is the Chairman of the Board of Trustees of Masdar Institute, while the patron of Masdar Institute is HRH Prince Charles, Prince of Wales.

The Board of Trustees members include His Highness Sheikh Diab bin Zayed Al Nahyan; His Highness Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan, UAE Minister of Foreign Affairs; His Excellency Sheikh Nahyan bin Mubarak Al Nahyan, UAE Minister of Higher Education and Scientific Research; His Excellency Mohammed Ahmed Al Bawardi, Secretary-General of the Abu Dhabi Executive Council; His Excellency Khaldoon Khalifa Al Mubarak, Chairman of the Executive Affairs Authority and CEO of the Mubadala Development Company; His Excellency Ahmed Al Sayegh, Chairman of Masdar; His Excellency Abdulla Nasser Al Suwaidi, Deputy CEO of Abu Dhabi National Oil Company; His Excellency Dr. Sultan Ahmed Al Jaber, CEO of Masdar and Chairman of the Executive Committee of the Board of Trustees of Masdar Institute; His Excellency Dr. Adnan Badran, President of Petra University, former Prime Minister and Education Minister of Jordan and Deputy Director-General of UNESCO; Dr Rafael Reif, Provost, Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT);  and Dr. Fred Moavenzadeh, President of Masdar Institute.

Over the past year, Masdar Institute has continued to consolidate its status as a world class institution and a source of innovation and human capital. In June 2011, the first batch of 71 post-graduate students received their Master’s degrees from His Highness Sheikh Hazza bin Zayed Al Nahyan, National Security Adviser and Vice-Chairman of Abu Dhabi Executive Council, and His Excellency Sheikh Nahyan bin Mubarak Al Nahyan, the UAE Minister of Higher Education and Scientific Research.

During the year, Masdar Institute placed significant emphasis on education and research programs that are relevant to Abu Dhabi’s requirements in clean energy, sustainable technology and climate change. The driving force behind Masdar Institute’s research is its strategic relevance and benefit to the Abu Dhabi government and the industry.

By focusing on projects that address specific needs of government agencies and industry, Masdar Institute is making a direct contribution to the economic development of the region.  With its research focus, Masdar Institute engages with local institutions such as Emirates Aluminium (EMAL), Abu Dhabi Company for Onshore Oil Operations (ADCO) as well as other Abu Dhabi Government organizations, through a number of mechanisms that have helped to increase its visibility and promote its research acumen. Research work is also under progress in collaboration with multinationals such as Boeing, Honeywell UOP, and Siemens.

Masdar Institute also launched the Master of Science program in Chemical Engineering, received accreditation for two additional Master’s programs (Electrical Power Engineering and Microsystems Engineering), recruited more than 20 faculty members and effected curricula changes to enhance the educational experience of the students.

In its formative first five years, Masdar Institute has succeeded in attracting outstanding faculty and students, building a state-of-the art campus and laboratories, and launching many collaborative research projects of relevance to the Institute’s mission and to the government of Abu Dhabi as articulated in its Vision 2030 Plan.

His Excellency Dr. Sultan Ahmed Al Jaber said: “The first-ever graduation ceremony marked another key academic milestone for Masdar Institute. Integrating education, research and scholarly activities, Masdar Institute prepares students to become innovators, creative scientists, researchers and critical thinkers in the areas of technology development, systems integration and policy. It also serves as a source of innovation and human capital to all the other units of Masdar.

“The Board of Trustees members will continue to provide guidance and support as Masdar Institute progresses towards further success in the coming years, contributing to make Abu Dhabi a knowledge-based economy while demonstrating its status as one of the key pillars of the Vision 2030 program. We remain grateful to the country’s wise leadership for their consistent patronage and their vision that continues to steer us towards achieving future milestones.”

Presenting the Masdar Institute annual report to the Board of Trustees, Dr. Fred Moavenzadeh said: “A total of 240 students have been registered across all the eight different programs at present. From the total number of students, 71 are UAE nationals, representing a substantial increase in Emirati enrollment. The number also reflects a significant achievement compared to 10 UAE nationals for the 2009 intake and 29 for 2010.”

The Board of Trustees members commended the progress and accomplishments achieved by Masdar Institute, while appreciating the substantial increase in the number of UAE national students enrolled across all the programs. They urged the Masdar Institute management team to further develop long-term relationships with local government institutions as well as indigenous and international private sector companies.

In addition, the Board of Trustees members asked Masdar Institute to encourage other academic institutions to work with the research-driven institution and emphasized the importance of engaging the youth in the field of advanced energy and sustainability.

By the commencement of the 2011-2012 academic year, the total number of faculty members across the eight programs, including the new Chemical Engineering program, has reached 63. Women represent 11% of the faculty body. Currently, representing 27 countries, the faculty members are the alumni of some of the globally renowned universities including the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), Harvard, Stanford, Cornell, Berkley, CalTech, Oxford and Cambridge among others.

During the year, Dr Joseph L. Cecchi, an acclaimed academician and an authority in the field of semiconductor engineering, was named the Provost of Masdar Institute. Holder of a Bachelor’s degree in physics from Knox College, Dr. Cecchi received his Master’s and doctorate in Physics from Harvard University. He also has an MBA from the University of New Mexico.

The Masdar Institute President also shared with the Board of Trustees that the number of awarded research projects during the year has touched 110 and they cover areas including water, environment and health, future energy systems, microsystems and advanced materials, and other ancillary fields. Masdar Institute has developed a research platform that explicitly recognizes the need for a multidisciplinary approach by promoting work in and across the domains of technology, systems and policy.

Dr. Moavenzadeh pointed out that Masdar Institute’s collaboration with MIT continues in education, research and innovation in sustainability, advanced energy and microsystems. In addition to being a founder partner of MIT Energy Initiative (MITEI), Masdar Institute also partners with MIT for the Technology Development Program (TDP), Earth and Planetary Sciences (EAPS) and Microsystems Technology Lab (MTL). Additionally, MIT supports students of the UAE National Foundation Program as well as members of the Young Future Energy Leaders (YFEL) through a practical experience program that blends theory with visits to local start-ups in Boston.

A new funding opportunity called the Masdar-MITEI Seed Fund Program has been recently launched to support early stage energy research projects in areas of joint interest to the Masdar Institute and MIT. Four full proposals were submitted in February and March 2011 and two of these have been selected with funding provided to the MIT side through the MITEI agreement and to Masdar Institute side from the Institute’s provision.

In YFEL 2011, a total of 150 students and young professionals participated. These included 60 UAE National students from key universities, as well as 20 young professionals from companies such as Etihad Airways, ADNOC, ADWEA, Emirates Foundation and Mubadala. The program has also increased international participation, inviting students from universities such as Harvard, MIT, Duke, and Hong Kong University of Science and Technology.

Masdar Institute also offers work placement internships in collaboration with local universities to provide hands-on professional experience and practical insight into the workplace ahead of graduation.

The Distinguished Lecturer Series initiated by Masdar Institute has been a great success.  Leaders from government, industry and academia have come to Masdar Institute to share their views with the Institute’s faculty and students.

Details of several other partnerships with leaders in key energy, transportation and technology sectors are currently being worked out, added Dr. Moavenzadeh.

In October, Masdar Institute hosted 12 educational and research organizations for an Institutional Membership meeting of the EU-GCC Clean Energy Network in Abu Dhabi. Masdar Institute is the lead institution representing the GCC in the EU-GCC Clean Energy Network, which aims to advance the common interest between the EU and the GCC regions for strategic energy cooperation. Masdar Institute is working with its partner institution in the EU, the National Technical University of Athens, to create, operate, promote and disseminate information and proposals on sustainable strategies of the Clean Energy Network.

Dr. Moavenzadeh concluded: “Through its academic and outreach programs as well as pioneering research initiatives, Masdar Institute aims to contribute to the UAE’s efforts towards becoming an important player in the world of science, engineering and technology. As the scope of our activities in clean, advanced energy and sustainable technologies continues to expand, Masdar Institute will effectively explore further collaborations with industry and government bodies to foster a diversified knowledge-based economy in Abu Dhabi and the UAE.”

The centerpiece of Masdar City, one of the most sustainable cities in the world, 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.

 

Masdar Institute Library Director Dr. Abdullah Al Hefeiti Leads Discussions on Further Developing Libraries in UAE

Abu Dhabi-UAE: 17 November, 2011 – Masdar Institute of Science and Technology, an independent, research-driven graduate-level university focused on advanced energy and sustainable technologies, today announced it hosted the 11th meeting of the UAE Academic and Research Library Directors at its campus.

A total of 18 directors of libraries representing the academic and research institutions gathered for the first time at the Masdar Institute campus, renowned for its sustainable and smart buildings.

Masdar Institute officials including Dr. Joe Cecchi, Provost, and Dr. Abdullah Al Hefeiti, Library Director, welcomed the guests at the Personal Rapid Transit (PRT) station. Alighting from the PRT pod cars, they took the spiral staircase to the Courtyard where they viewed the 45-meter high Windtower. Later, they visited the Earth Observation and Environmental Remote Sensing lab and the Interactive Artificial Intelligence lab.

The meeting at the functionally-designed Knowledge Center was led by Dr. Abdullah Al Hefeiti, Chairman of the UAE Academic and Research Library consortium and Library Director at Masdar Institute. The participants focused on developing a strategy for the consortium of academic research libraries in the UAE, sharing of experience, training development for librarians and creating a website for the committee of librarians.

The guests included Ali Abdullah from UAE University, Vanessa Middleton, Head Librarian at the Petroleum Institute, Dr. Dorothy Furber Byers, Head of Libraries at Khalifa University of Science, Technology & Research (KUSTAR), Dr. Hassan A. Momani, UAE Federation Library Director from the Emirates Center for Strategic Studies and Research (ECSSR), and Rashed Abdulrahman from Abu Dhabi Authority for Culture and Heritage. The two attendees from Zayed University included Alecia Perkins, Learning Enhancement Centre (LEC) Coordinator and Interim Dubai Campus Librarian, and Mary Sengati-Zimba, Abu Dhabi Campus Librarian.

The directors also discussed several measures for identifying the strengths, challenges and opportunities for further developing academic libraries in the UAE to make them on par with other world-class libraries in universities. The participants additionally focused on the vision and mission of a library, delivery of information services, availability of electronic resources, number of professionals and support staff, as well as the time they may remain open during special events.

Dr. Joe Cecchi said: “We are privileged to host the 11th meeting of the UAE Academic and Research Library Directors. These custodians of knowledge, with their expertise and resources, play a dynamic role in nurturing the student community. Libraries are knowledge treasure troves that are waiting to be discovered by students and we are confident the decisions taken at this meeting will productively impact the academic community in general.”

Dr. Al Hefeiti said: “The library directors meeting serves as a forum to discuss cooperation building measures among the institutions to share resources, advance research in the country and to promote networking amongst the participants. This meeting assumes special significance because it is held in our sustainable campus that is powered entirely by renewable energy. Masdar Institute is keen to expand its contribution to the academic and research communities in general.”

Mandated to promote inter-library cooperation in resource-sharing and exchange of experience and experts, the UAE Academic and Research Library Directors committee aims to meet the challenges of new technologies, and cost of acquisitions to warrant excellence in providing high-quality services for the end-users.

Established in 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.

Article in ‘Science’ Journal Analyzes MIT Team’s Win at DARPA Network Challenge that Measured Crowd-Sourcing Power of Social Media Platforms

Abu Dhabi-UAE: 16 November, 2011 – Masdar Institute of Science and Technology, an independent, research-driven graduate-level university focused on advanced energy and sustainable technologies, today announced the prestigious ‘Science’ journal has published for the first time a paper co-authored by a UAE-based scientist.

The paper analyses the tactics adopted by various teams during the Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA) Network Challenge, which measured the crowd-sourcing power of today’s social media platforms. The Massachusetts Institute of Technology (M.I.T.) Red Balloon Challenge Team was declared the winner.

As a Visiting Scholar at the MIT Human Dynamics research laboratory of Prof. Alex (Sandy) Pentland, Dr. Iyad Rahwan, Assistant Professor – Computing and Information Science, Masdar Institute, had the opportunity to help the MIT team decipher the data generated from the DARPA Network Challenge, and build mathematical models to analyze the incentive mechanism and its main features.

The M.I.T. Red Balloon Challenge Team members comprised Prof. Alex Pentland, Director of Human Dynamics Laboratory at M.I.T., Dr. Manuel Cebrian, now a research scientist at University of California, San Diego, Dr. Riley Crane, a post-doctoral fellow studying social networks at M.I.T., and M.I.T. graduate students Wei Pan, Galen Pickard, and Anmol Madan.

The first of its kind, DARPA Network Challenge was launched to mark the 40th anniversary of the birth of the Internet, and to test how it has changed the way human beings can mobilize social networks. DARPA is the government agency that developed many of the technologies that has become integral to the Internet.

Nearly 4,300 teams participated in the DARPA Network Challenge that involved locating ten weather balloons placed randomly across Continental US. Using a ‘recursive incentive mechanism’ that both spread information about the task and incentivized individuals to act, the team was able to find all ten balloons, marked with numbered pennants, in less than nine hours, and won the Challenge.

The M.I.T. Red Balloon Challenge Team was a collaborative effort that used an inverse pyramid model to encourage the help of others. The team distributed the US$40,000 winner’s purse by giving US$2,000 to the first person who sent the correct coordinates for each balloon, then US$1,000 to whoever invited that person to participate, US$500 to whoever invited that person, and so on. The balance was donated to charity.

The Science journal article analyzes the theoretical and practical properties of this mechanism and its analogy with other approaches. The authors of the article have attempted to quantify the effect of the ‘recursive incentive mechanism’ strategy, by analyzing the set of all Tweets published by people on social networking site Twitter. The number of Tweets that mention the different top performing teams were also measured.

The authors conclude that combining both charitable as well as personal incentives could result in rapid social mobilization, since the social media response was much lower for teams that used an ‘altruism-based strategy’, which promised to donate all money to charity. The article further confers that having access to a large audience is not sufficient in the absence of incentives. Citing the example of George Hotz, an IT celebrity who had 35,000 followers on Twitter, the article states that while Hotz was able to generate a huge initial burst of interest atthe DARPA Network Challenge, the number of Tweets sharply dropped subsequently. In contrast, with the ‘recursive incentive’ strategy, the M.I.T. Red Balloon Challenge Team was able to achieve a comparable number eventually, despite not having access to a large audience to begin with.

Dr Fred Moavenzadeh, President of Masdar Institute of Science and Technology, said: “The joint article in the respected ‘Science’ journal on the results of the DARPA Network Challenge bears testimony to the contribution of Masdar Institute to pioneering initiatives. It also signifies a milestone towards achieving the vision of the UAE’s leadership to make the country a knowledge-based economy and an important player in the world of science, engineering and technology. Our faculty will continue to engage the community through similar initiatives.”

 

Dr. Iyad Rahwan, Masdar Institute, said: “Time-critical social mobilization aims to organize social networks in order to find valuable information especially during emergency scenarios such as earth quakes or the outbreak of an epidemic like bird flu. In these situations, people need to act swiftly and in a coordinated manner to find crucial information. After an earth quake, it is absolutely crucial to quickly locate an engineer who knows the whereabouts of power generators, while during an epidemic it is highly essential to rapidly identify people who showed early symptoms for treatment and quarantine.

“In both these cases, crucial information that is embedded in the network of social relationships makes a world of difference in accessing the right personnel for necessary decision-making and mobilization.”

 

 

Select Artwork on Sustainability Created by Students to Be Displayed at World Future Energy Summit 2012

Abu Dhabi-UAE: 15 November, 2011 – Masdar Institute of Science of Technology, an independent, research-driven graduate-level university focused on advanced energy and sustainable technologies, on Monday welcomed 200 students from across the Arab world as part of its program to raise awareness on sustainability among tomorrow’s leaders.

The visit was arranged on the sidelines of the 31^st International Arab Children Congress that opened on 13 November. The conference is being organized in Abu Dhabi for the first time, under the patronage of Her Excellency Sheikha Fatima Bint Mubarak, Supreme Chairperson of the Family Development Foundation (FDF), President of the General Women’s Union, Chairman of the Supreme Council for Motherhood and Childhood. The event is held in collaboration with the King Hussein National Center of Culture and Art and aims to encourage children to learn about different industries and global topics. It will conclude on 20 November.      

The students in the 13-16 age group were received at the Masdar Institute by a team of select officials and students. The group arrived in four batches and toured parts of the sustainable campus such as the Courtyard and the Wind Tower. They also experienced a comfortable ride on the driverless and futuristic personalised rapid transit (PRTs) pod cars, before reaching the Knowledge Center for a presentation on ‘Sustainability and Renewable Energy’.

A demonstration of the electric vehicles (EVs) that are being piloted at Masdar City was part of the tour itinerary. Students learnt key features, as well as the relevance and usability in desert conditions of the EVs that form part of the sustainable transport system designed for Masdar City.

The presentation on renewable energy offered by Dr. Kenneth Volk, Outreach Manager, and Sara Al Junaibi, Outreach Officer, provided the students with a better understanding of the clean technology industry and its benefits to the community. An ensuing quiz competition assessed the students’ extent of knowledge in non-renewable and clean energy industries.

The presentation also aimed to inspire the students to produce an artistic representation of what they learnt on sustainability in their lives. Masdar will select the most creative ones for display at the World Future Energy Summit (WFES) 2012 that will be held from 16-19 January at the Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Center (ADENC). The students will be special invitees to the global forum that gathers royals, heads of states, government leaders and clean energy industry professionals in large numbers.

Dr. Lamya Fawwaz, Executive Director of Public Affairs, Masdar Institute, said: “Masdar Institute aims to develop critical thinkers and leaders of the future through hosting them on various occasions. This is part of our endeavor to support capacity building as directed by the UAE’s leadership to develop a knowledge-based society. The International Arab Children Congress in Abu Dhabi is an event that gathers children from across the Arab world and provides us the right opportunity to bring them to our campus, educate them and mold them as innovators and entrepreneurs of tomorrow. We strongly believe the visit will offer the children an insight into the sustainable concepts that they can incorporate into their everyday lives.”

The students were briefed on the various categories of the US$4-million Zayed Future Energy Prize (ZFEP), the world’s largest clean energy competition, that honours and rewards those who are tackling the energy crisis today, with the aim to educate and inspire future leaders and innovators. Earlier this year, the Zayed Future Energy Prize announced the addition of a Global High School Prize.

The Masdar Institute campus stands out as one of the prime examples of how cities in the future may pursue sustainability. From orientation of the buildings to features that facilitate natural lighting and cooler ground-level breeze, the sustainable elements that are incorporated into the architecture and design of the campus comprehensively reflect clean energy concept.

The centerpiece of Masdar City, one of the carbon-neutral and sustainable cities in the world, Masdar Institute provides graduate 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.

 

Expert from MIT Dr John H Leinhard Highlights Region’s Challenges in Accessing Water Resources

Abu Dhabi-UAE: 14 November, 2011 – Masdar Institute of Science and Technology, an independent, research-driven graduate-level university focused on advanced energy and sustainable technologies, today announced it organized a lecture and discussion to highlight desalination technologies and their role in regional and global challenges in potable water production.

The event titled ‘Desalination of seawater by HDH and other technologies’ was held in Abu Dhabi as part of the MIT Energy Initiative (MITEI) Distinguished Lecture Series.

More than 180 students, researchers, faculty from Masdar Institute and industry professionals from across the region attended the event that was addressed by Dr John Leinhard, Deputy Director, MIT Energy Initiative, Chevron Professor of Chemical Engineering, Massachusetts Institute of Technology.

Speaking at the event, Dr Lienhard first provided an overview of the scale and scope of the challenge society faces in providing fresh water to growing populations in water stressed regions. He then discussed the range of desalination technologies available for providing fresh water and pointed out that humidification and dehumidification (HDH) technology, which has low capital and maintenance requirements is highly appropriate for community-level water purification and can play a crucial role in solving the global water problem. Desalination of water assumes enormous significance because, while water covers most of the planet, only 3% of that is fresh water, of which less than 1% is readily accessible.

Dr Leinhard pointed out that currently, there are 13.869 desalination plants operating worldwide with a total capacity of 60 million cubic liters a day, which is equivalent to 5% of world’s domestic water consumption. These plants adopt the ‘membrane’ and ‘distillation’ techniques to obtain potable water. The Global Water Intelligence (GWI) ranks the UAE second among top 10 desalinated water producing countries with a capacity of approximately 8.4-million cubic meters a day.

Dr Leinhard said: “HDH research is ongoing and can potentially improve upon the existing technologies. Work at MIT and other institutions to make HDH a low-cost desalination option may yield easier access to potable water for communities across the world.”

HDH desalination is a distillation technology that operates using air as a carrier gas to carry water evaporated from a heated seawater feed to a chamber where the water is condensed in a clean form. The carrier gas is recycled to complete the humidification and dehumidification cycle.

The lecture covered serious issues in worldwide water supply and highlighted desalination as a solution. Currently, a variety of technologies, including HDH, are being studied and deployed. Dr Leinhard’s work has investigated the lead-edge thermodynamic performance aspects of a wide variety of HDH configurations.

With more than 23 years on the MIT faculty, Dr Lienhard’s research and educational efforts have focused on heat transfer, desalination, thermodynamics, fluid mechanics, and instrumentation.

Dr Lienhard serves on the editorial boards of several international journals, and is the co-author of textbooks on heat transfer and on measurement and instrumentation. His book on heat transfer has been available online since 2002 and more than 250,000 copies have been downloaded.

Dr Steven Griffiths, Executive Director of Institute Initiatives, said: “Availability of fresh water is a problem that is becoming increasing difficult to solve as population growth and economic development create increasing demand for fresh water for industrial, agricultural and personal uses. The challenge is most significant in water-stressed regions such as the Middle East. Insights from academic experts such as Dr Leinhard bring enormous value to work being done in the region to develop new inventions and innovations in the area of desalination.”

Dr Lienhard received his Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees in thermal engineering from the University of California Los Angeles (UCLA) from the Chemical, Nuclear, and Thermal Engineering Department, where he worked on thermal instabilities in solar collectors and evaporating meniscus measurements for desalination systems. He joined MIT immediately after completing his PhD in the Applied Mechanics and Engineering Science Department from the University of California San Diego, where he did experimental work on thermally stratified turbulent flows.

Since joining MIT, Dr Lienhard has worked on liquid jet impingement, buoyant instabilities, high heat flux engineering, electronics thermal management, glass fiber formation, and thermally-driven desalination processes. He has been the Director of the Rohsenow Kendall Heat Transfer Laboratory since 1997, and is a Fellow of the American Society of Mechanical Engineers. At MIT, Dr Lienhard has served as Associate Head of the Mechanical Engineering department, Undergraduate Officer, and Head of the Fluids, Energy & Transport Division of Mechanical Engineering.

The centerpiece of Masdar City, one of the carbon-neutral and sustainable cities in the world, 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.

 

 

Product Concept Developed through Research at Masdar Institute Gets Recognition with Angel Investors

Abu Dhabi-UAE: 13 November, 2011 – Masdar Institute of Science and Technology, an independent, research-driven graduate-level university focused on advanced energy and sustainable technologies, today announced that a team led by one of its faculty won an “elevator pitch” competition at the INSEAD/SMART Entrepreneurship Bootcamp in Singapore.

Dr. Raed Hashaikeh, Assistant Professor for Materials Science and Engineering at Masdar Institute, led his team of entrepreneurially-inclined researchers to victory over eight other teams of principal investigators, researchers, post-doctoral and graduate students at the program.

Titled ‘Entrepreneurship Bootcamp: From Laboratory to Marketplace’, the program was organized from 14-16 October by the INSEAD Business School and Singapore-MIT Alliance for Research and Technology (SMART) Innovation Centre.

With a balance of lecture discussion and breakout sessions, the three-day intensive hands-on, action learning experience was focused on technology entrepreneurship. The objective was to teach the best practices developed by MIT and INSEAD to help the academia push technology from laboratory to the marketplace.

Program directors included Professor Patrick Turner, Affiliate Professor of Entrepreneurship at INSEAD, Professor Howard Califano, Director of Innovation Centre at Singapore-MIT Alliance for Research Centre, Professor Charles L. Cooney, Department of Chemical Engineering, MIT, and Linus Koh, Chapter Chair – MIT Enterprise Forum Singapore. The directors put together a program that provided participants with the opportunity to familiarize themselves with key business plan development concepts such as ‘Go-to-Market Analysis, ‘Selling to Customers’, ‘Venture Financing’ and ‘Cash Flow’ during the workshop.

Dr. Raed Hashaikeh was joined by two faculty members from Singapore institutions. The team’s concept focused on a novel biodegradable material produced from processing cellulose that has been developed at Masdar Institute. The material when mixed with sand in right proportion provides three times higher water retention capability. Dr. Hashaikeh’s team won the competition for effectively selling the idea that the material could be used to improve water storage and availability in sandy soils and reduce irrigation costs in arid climates.

Each of the eight teams involved in the elevator pitch competition were required to pitch their own marketing ideas within two minutes to two angel investors without the aid of slides or notes.

Dr. Steven Griffiths, Executive Director, Office of Institute Initiatives, Masdar Institute, said: “The competition provided an opportunity for one of the innovative technologies developed through research at Masdar Institute to win recognition for its potential commercial impact. The payoff from research is realized when ideas generated in the lab are eventually commercialized. Dr. Raed Hashaikeh’s success in the competition is good example of this process in action.”

Dr. Hashaikeh said: “The concept behind our marketing strategy originated from the team’s ability to envision a near-term product opportunity. The value proposition that a biodegradable material can reduce consumption of irrigation water seemed attractive enough. The venture capitalists at the competition liked the idea and accepted our proposal. It was teamwork that helped us win the competition.”

Dr. Raed Hashaikeh has completed his Ph.D. in Materials Engineering from McGill University. Before joining Masdar Institute, he spent two years at FP Innovations-Paprican division, Canada, as Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council of Canada (NSERC) Industrial Research and Development Fellow. In 2008-2009, he was a visiting scholar at MIT.

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, Masdar Institute is committed to finding solutions to the challenges of clean energy and climate change.