Doha: Hamad Bin Khalifa University (HBKU) and Texas A and M University at Qatar (TAMUQ), in collaboration with the Royal Society of Chemistry (RSC) and European Materials Research Society (E-MRS), are hosting the Advancing Materials Science: Bridging Chemistry and Engineering for a Sustainable Future conference.
According to Qatar News Agency, the event, scheduled from November 3-5, is the first RSC and E-MRS conference to take place in the Middle East. This three-day conference aims to accelerate scientific discoveries, industry collaborations, and advancements in sustainability-driven materials research by bringing together global experts and young researchers in materials science, chemistry, and technologies.
The sessions will focus on facilitating interdisciplinary collaboration; showcasing research in advanced materials, sustainable energy, nanotechnology, and functional polymers; supporting early-career researchers and students; and positioning Qatar as a hub for scientific collaboration in materials science and innovation.
Dr. Mounir Hamdi, Dean of the College of Science and Engineering at HBKU, remarked on the power of chemistry to drive global sustainability and emphasized the importance of bridging the gap between research and real-world application. He noted that the conference provides a crucial platform for dialogue and collaboration, turning innovative ideas into practical solutions. Dr. Hamdi reiterated HBKU's commitment to transformative change addressing national priorities and contributing to global progress.
Following the opening remarks, a panel discussion titled 'Science Without Borders: Strengthening International Partnerships for Innovation' explored the role of cross-cultural collaboration in promoting sustainable growth. The session featured a diverse group of high-level experts, including Dr. Eyad Masad, Vice President for Research at HBKU, Dr. Tony Kenyon, President of E-MRS, Dr. Hisham Sabir from the Qatar Research, Development and Innovation (QRDI) Council, and Toby Underwood, Head of Professional Standards at RCS.
Dr. Mohammed Al Hashimi, Professor at CSE and Conference Chair, expressed pride in hosting the first RSC and E-MRS conference in the Middle East. He highlighted the significance of the exchanges taking place, which are expected to shape how chemistry contributes to solving pressing challenges and advancing sustainability both locally and globally.
The event underscores HBKU's role as a pioneering university addressing critical challenges and further highlights Qatar's growing influence in advancing innovation and sustainable development.