Research work to be awarded Dh200,000

A Dh200,000 prize for best research work in science and information technology in the UAE was announced by the Emirates Foundation.

The Abu Dhabi-based agency, a nationwide philanthropic programme committed to improving the quality of life in the UAE, will organise a two-phase contest to award this year's prize to researchers from the UAE.

The contest covers original research proposals in the fields of science and engineering, information technology and environmental sciences.

Proposals that meet the selection criteria will be awarded up to Dh200,000, the foundation said. The date for the submission of applications is June 1 for the first phase, and October 1 for the second. The winners for the two phases will be announced in July and November respectively.

Ahmed Ali Al Sayegh, Managing Director of the Emirates Foundation, said: "This is the first time that independent research grants have been offered in the UAE. The foundation is breaking new ground in its commitment to supporting scientific research and promoting technological and scientific advancement."

It also seeks to engage partners from both the private and public sectors, Al Sayegh said. In this initiative, the foundation's private sector partner is Shell Abu Dhabi, which will be acting in an advisory capacity.

"Shell has been one of the earliest supporters of the Emirates Foundation, and remains committed to supporting initiatives focusing on the human capacity development of UAE nationals," a statement from the petroleum company said.

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