DOHA: More than 180 national, regional and international institutes have submitted 658 abstracts for expert review at the joint Qatar Foundation Annual Research Forum and Arab Expatriate Scientists Network Symposium which will begin here today.
The figure boasts an overall increase of about hundred percent in abstracts since last year’s forum, as well as a forty percent increase in student submissions.
“We are delighted with the number of research abstracts received this year. There has been a substantial rise in submissions and this will no doubt help increase dialogue between individuals across a broad range of industries. This exchanging of information will build partnerships that will advance Qatar’s national research agenda and promote research that is vital for Qatar, the region and the world,” said Faisal Al Suwaidi, President of Research and Development at Qatar Foundation.
“It is encouraging to see an increase in student submissions at this year’s forum. It is reflective of the growing scientific culture amongst our younger generation. We are pleased that they see how research can benefit the future of Qatar and the wider region. It is a great opportunity for the youth to present their studies and to network with key players in the research community,” he added.
This year’s submissions are in-line with the country’s national research priorities, which include health and biomedicine, energy and environment, computing and information technology, behavioural and social sciences, arts, humanities, and Islamic Studies. These core disciplines form the pillars of this year’s edition of the forum.
The abstracts are comprehensively reviewed by an abstract committee comprised of 75 international scholars, academics, researchers, and scientists including members of the Arab Expatriate Scientists Network. The four most impressive entries from each of the three categories will be selected as winners. The winners will be announced at the Award Ceremony and Gala Dinner set to take place tomorrow, the second day of the forum.
“The Award Ceremony is an opportunity to honour the individuals and their institutions for their ongoing hard work and commitment to advancing Qatar’s national research agenda. We are delighted to be awarding select applicants with a grant to support them to continue their research projects. In addition, students will be awarded monetary awards for the best oral and poster presentations,” said Al Suwaidi.
The Third Annual Research Forum will be held until Tuesday at the Qatar National Convention Centre and will serve as the venue for unveiling the Qatar National Research Strategy and establishing a roadmap for implementing that strategy.
The Peninsula
