Second Annual Research Forum aimed at “research for all”

The Annual Research Forum (ARF), organized by Qatar Foundation for Education, Science and Community Development, is taking on a new international dimension in its second edition with the theme “Globalization of Research.” The forum will showcase the latest research being conducted in and for Qatar that can also benefit developing countries.

This year’s theme takes its inspiration from a speech delivered by Her Highness Sheikha Moza bint Nasser at the inaugural Annual Research Forum in December 2010, in which she noted, “It has become acceptable to talk about globalization in the fields of education, economy, culture and information technology. The time has come for globalization in the research field to be recognized as well.” 

Reflecting on the 2011 theme, Qatar Foundation’s Vice President for Research Dr. Abdelali Haoudi commented, “Scientific research has the potential to solve some of society’s most pressing issues, not only through the technologies and scientific advances it produces, but also through the human capabilities it develops and strengthens in the process.  Qatar Foundation is eager to lead the movement towards a globalization and democratization of research because it will allow developing communities to unlock their human potential in the fields of science and technology.”

ARF 2011 will bring together Nobel laureates, international policymakers, student, scientists, industry leaders, and top academic and research institutions in Doha from November 20^th to November 22^nd. The deadline for submitting abstracts to participate and present at the forum is September 25^th.

“Qatar Foundation has designed this forum as a platform for academia and enterprise, research and industry to exchange knowledge and build relationships that translate into innovative research for Qatar and the world,” said Dr. Abdelali Haoudi.

“This year’s forum has some new and exciting developments- we have significantly expanded opportunities for student presentations and networking, as a reflection of Qatar Foundation’s commitment to building research capacity and promoting a culture of research in Qatar and the region,” said Dr. Dirar Khoury, Director of Institutional Research for Qatar Foundation.

 “We have also launched a separate track for environmental research in tandem with the growing interest for this field among the scientific community,” added Dr. Khoury.

Plenary sessions for the 2011 Annual Research Forum will be centered on the themes “globalization in research” and “entrepreneurship in science and technology,” with parallel sessions falling into five tracks: biomedicine; energy; environment; computing; and arts, humanities, social sciences, and Islamic studies research. Additional sessions will explore the set-up of public-private partnerships, connecting research with the development of new products and technologies, measuring research and development outcomes and research capacity building.

Exhibition stands at the forum will offer participants additional opportunities to network and learn more about the institutions, universities, hospitals, foundations, non-profits and government agencies that are leading Qatar’s drive towards becoming a research powerhouse in the Gulf and the wider region.

On November 22^nd, the forum will conclude with an awards ceremony to recognize research excellence among the professional and student researchers in each track. In the drive to increase support for student research, the number of student awards being presented has doubled this year. Winning presentations will be selected by an expert panel of Nobel Laureates and well-regarded scientists and industry leaders.

The Annual Research Forum is a Qatar Foundation initiative rooted in the State of Qatar’s national strategy to foster a community of research excellence and world-class education. There is a range of sponsorship and exhibition opportunities at the 2011 forum.  Applications for exhibition stands at the forum will be accepted until October 20^th.