The University of Sharjah works under the Chancellor directives to study real-world problems through research to achieve its mission of development, community service, and strengthening collaboration with UAE community institutions. This issue ofthe Research at Glance E-Newsletter includes the numerous workshops and seminars during March. And highlights the major events such as the Press conference for launching the preparations of the 2nd Forum for Women in Research, 7th International Conference on Arab Women in Computing (ArabWIC 2021), the Police, Legal and Economic Technical Exchange Meeting under the theme Social Responsibility and Quality of Life, and the College of Law conference titled Modern Technology, one of the contemporary legal challenges.
Prof. Maamar Bettayeb Vice Chancellor for Research & Graduate Studies Winning & Successful Stories
1- University of Sharjah Advances to Rank 109 in the Times Emerging Economies University Rankings 2021
University of Sharjah was ranked 109th in the Times Emerging Economies University Rankings 2021 announced on Tuesday, 9th March 2021, a staggering 33 places higher than last year’s rankings. University of Sharjah Chancellor, Prof. Hamid AL Naimiy commented that this confirms the great progress made by the University in the Times Higher Education World University Rankings, announced in February 2021, where it advanced more than 100 places (in the ranks 601-800) and ranked among the best three universities in the UAE. The Times Higher Education Emerging Economies University Rankings assess institutions on the same thirteen global indicators. The indictors are modified to reflect the specific characteristics of universities in a group of over 50 countries considered by the Financial Times Stock Exchange as emerging economies including Brazil, China, Russia, Pakistan, Turkey, Indonesia, India, Czech Republic, Hungary, UAE, KSA, Egypt, Malaysia, South Africa etc.
2- The First of its Kind in the Region and the World: UoS Offers a Bachelor of Science in Chemical and Water Desalination Engineering
The University of Sharjah has launched the first, unique, and niche undergraduate program in Chemical Engineering and water desalination. The program has been established to serve The United Arab Emirates particularly and the worldwide globally to graduate a knowledgeable and high skill Chemical and Water Desalination Engineers. The B.Sc. in Chemical and Water Desalination Engineering (CWDE) Program is a unique program in providing specialist knowledge on Chemical Engineering and its specialty in the critical topics related to water desalination.
3- Honoring Winner of the 3rd Emirates 2020 Award Faculty Category
Prof. Hamid Al Naimiy, Chancellor of University of Sharjah, honored Dr. Hani Omar, Head of the Department of Pharmacy Practice and Pharmacotherapeutics at the college of Pharmacy. He was awarded the “Best University Doctor -Resident “ award at the Emirates-2020 3rd Edition. Academics evaluated the award through the following criteria: teaching competence, quality of scientific research, in- university contributions, and community contributions.
4- Honoring Winner of the 3rd Emirates 2020 Award Student Category
Prof. Hamid Al Naimiy, Chancellor of University of Sharjah, honored student Mahmoud Sami Madi from the Department of Electrical Engineering, College of Engineering. He was awarded the Medal of Excellence in “Distinguished University Student B.A.-Resident” at the Emirates-2020 3rd Award in the presence of Prof. Ahmed Al-Shammaa, Dean of the College of Engineering. The Award was evaluated through the following academic criteria: academic achievement, future planning, projects and research, and volunteer work. 5- The Evolution of Agriculture Across the History of Mankind
In the 5th episode of “Into the Future” produced by Abu Dhabi TV, Prof. Ali El- Keblawy from the Department of Applied Biology - College of Sciences, sheds the light on the evolution of agriculture across the history of mankind. In this interview, Prof. Ali describes the immense impact of the industrial revolution and later the biotechnology revolution and the use of genetic engineering techniques on crop production. Prof. Ali also believes that with the current overpopulation facing our planet it is time for yet another revolution to improve agriculture.
6- A Cooperation Agreement Between the University of Sharjah and Zulekha Healthcare Group
The University of Sharjah signed two agreements with the Zulikha Group for Health Care. Signed by Professor Qutaiba Hamid, Vice Chancellor & Dean of College of Medicine and Mr. Taher Shams, Managing Director of Zulikha Healthcare Group, the agreements aim to train University of Sharjah students at the College of Pharmacy and hospitals of Zulikha Health Care Group to strengthen their capacity to provide pharmaceutical care for patients and public health.
7- University of Sharjah Signs a Memorandum of Understanding with Sharjah General Libraries
Sharjah University signed a memorandum of understanding with Sharjah Public Libraries, which belong to the Sharjah Book Authority, to support and develop a dynamic and advanced educational platform that targets students, faculty members and society. This step is in line with the two parties’ strategy of encouraging and inspiring lifelong learning, in addition to enhancing the academic experience of students, faculty members and society, which is reflected in the country’s economic and social development.
8- The University of Sharjah and the Dubai Court Department Signs a Memorandum of Understanding
The University of Sharjah and the Dubai Court Department signed a memorandum of understanding to support and enhance mutual cooperation and exchange expertise and information in the legal and judicial fields. The two sides agreed to involve members of the teaching staff in conducting studies and research in the legal and judicial fields, and to use judges to participate in the advisory board of the University’s Faculty of Law, Sharia and Islamic Studies to discuss scientific messages, research arbitration, and practical training for university students.
9- The University of Sharjah Signs an MoU with IBM
With the aim of collaborating in the areas of skills, curriculum development, and research the University of Sharjah signs an MoU with the renowned company IBM. Research Highlights
1- Sequencing Genetic Material of Host and Covid-19 virus
Prof. Rabih Halwani from College of Medicine at the University of Sharjah participates in the project led by Khalifa University bringing together a group of scientists and physicians in the UAE for sequencing genetic material of the host and the Covid-19 virus to examine factors contributing to the severity of the disease. The research will help improve diagnostics and medical treatment.
2- Published Manuscript in the Field of Immunology Reaches a Milestone
The Published Manuscript entitled “Utilization of Dimethyl Fumarate and Related Molecules for Treatment of Multiple Sclerosis, Cancer, and Other Diseases” by Prof. Azzam A. Magazachi, Assistant Dean for Graduate Studies in the College of Medicine, reached a milestone of 10,000 total views. In this study, Prof. Azzam touched on several diseases with an emphasis on the effects of DMF and MMF on various immune cells.
3- Research on Ramadan Fasting Featured in the Largest Japanese Newspaper
Dr. Moez Al Islam Faris, Associate Professor from the College of Health Sciences, was interviewed by Asahi newspaper, the first and largest newspaper in Japan for his research on Ramadan fasting. With the growing popularity of intermittent fasting, many scientists are taking interest in the way Muslims fast every year during the month of Ramadan and are studying the effects fasting has on the human body.
4- Research Uncovers Link Between the Timing of Fetal Head Growth Patterns and Subsequent Child Development
Dr. Leila Cheikh Ismail, Associate Professor from the College of Health Sciences, participated in a collaborative research study with University of Oxford, University of California, Berkeley and other universities. In this study researchers identified, for the first time, a critical time period during pregnancy from 20 to 25 weeks’ gestation that is the starting point for five trajectories associated with specific neurodevelopmental, behavioral, visual and growth outcomes, independent of fetal abdominal growth, postnatal morbidity and anthropometric measures at birth and age 2. 5- University of Sharjah Participation in WiDS (Women in Data Science) UAE 2021
The OpenUAE and Aerospace Center of Excellence at the University of Sharjah participated in the WiDS event. The Women in Data Science (WiDS) is an initiative from Stanford University that aims to inspire and educate data scientists worldwide. This annual event was delivered in the UAE thanks to the efforts of an organizing committee consisting of Susan Malaika, from IBM Data Science, Dr. Manar Abu Talib, from the University of Sharjah and leader of ArabWIC, as well as several WiDS ambassadors. Two research assistants, Mariam Al Aboudi and Omnia Abu Warga delivered a talk about the utilization of data science and machine learning in their research study. Mariam Alaboudi shared her work in drone detection systems using radiofrequency and machine learning, while Omnia Abu Warga discussed predicting water consumption trends using data-driven models. The regional event included speakers from other universities such as United Arab Emirates University (UAEU), American University of Sharjah (AUS), Khalifa University, and Heriot-Watt University.
Research Events and Workshops
1- Innovation and Entrepreneurship Symposium
The University of Sharjah Business Administration College, in collaboration with the Al-Ahli Holding Community Responsibility Department, organized the “Innovation and Entrepreneurship” symposium, which coincided with the United Arab Emirates Innovation Month. The symposium aims to motivate university students to innovate and become entrepreneurs. The symposium included speakers from Italy, Argentina, America and Brazil and was attendance by Professor Dima Jamali, Dean of the College of Business Administration, members of the Faculty of Business Administration and a large number of University students.
2- The Ninth International Conference of Dentistry Students
Students from the College of Dentistry representing 60 universities and international academic institutions from 47 countries around the world, participated in the Ninth International Conference of Dentistry Students at the University of Sharjah. The conference is the largest international conference of dental students in the world on an interactive virtual platform. It included three discussion sessions, which hosted a group of doctors and researchers, who presented 15 scientific lectures, specialized debates, and a live presentation of two dental surgeries.
3- From University Research to Real World Impactful and Patentable Research Workshop
In a series of workshops organized by the Research Outreach Department, Office of Vice Chancellor for Research and Graduate Studies, in collaboration with College of Engineering, Dr. Ahmed Al-Shammaa delivered a research workshop entitled “ From University Research to Real World Impactful and Patentable Research”. The workshop addressed a number of topics, such as how to activate research partnerships between researchers and research institutions, exchanging knowledge and expertise to improve research, research impact on society, developing a research portfolio, and developing research outputs and activities. 4- The Fourth International Conference on the History of Science Among Arabs and Muslims
The Sharjah International Foundation for History of Science among Arabs and Muslims will hold the fourth international conference on the history of science among Arabs and Muslims, on April 4-6, in collaboration with Cologne University, Germany, and King Abdulaziz University, Saudi Arabia. Invited to the conference are scientists, researchers, directors of universities, research centers, libraries and international museums from around the world.
5- Artificial Intelligence and Arabic Language Processing Workshop
The Research Outreach Department organized the tenth Research Café Talk titled “Artificial Intelligence and Arabic Language Processing”, presented by Prof. Ashraf Elnagar, Professor and Vice Dean of the College of Computing and Informatics. During the talk Prof. Ashraf gave a brief introduction on the world of artificial intelligence and machine learning with a focus on Arabic language processing. He also included an interactive session where he showed examples of systems developed by his research group such as classification of news articles, Arabic- language dialect identification, automatic captioning of photos, and identification of Quran reciter.
6- The Quest for Honorable Hadith
As part of the activities by the cultural committee of the College of Sharia and Islamic Studies, which aims to benefit students, professors, and those interested in scientific research and sharia sciences, the College Sharia and Islamic Studies organized a lecture entitled “The Quest for Honorable Hadith”. The lecture was presented by Dr. Kaberu Goji, in which he presented several topics, including: The definition of hadith and the importance of engaging in the science of Hadith and the virtues of seeking the science of Hadith.
7- Circular Economy Workshop
The Office of the Vice-Chancellor for Research and Graduate Studies atthe University organized a workshop entitled “Circular Economy” presented by Prof. Abdulghani Al-Olabi, Head of the Department of Sustainable and Renewable Energy Engineering at the College of Engineering. Prof. Abdulghani addressed several topics including the management of natural resources sustainably to protect biodiversity, the comparison of circular economy with linear economy, the efficiency of renewable energy and its contribution to the circular economy, and the relationship between sustainable development goals and circular economy.
8- Ph.D. Programs at UoS: from Admission to Graduation
The College of Graduate Studies organized a workshop entitled “Ph.D. Programs at UoS: from Admission to Graduation” as part of the graduate studies workshop series for Spring 2020/2021. Dr. Ali Bou Nassif, Assistant Dean of Academic Graduate Affairs and Prof. Raafat El-Awady, Dean of College of Graduate Studies, delivered the workshop on two separate days - the first in Arabic and the second in English. The workshop explained the rules and regulation for Ph.D. programs at the University as well as the guidelines for examinations and grading. The thesis and defense procedure were also explained in detail. The workshop concluded by answering some frequently asked questions. 9- Seminar on MVE Biological Solutions
As part of SIMR continuous partial education series, the Research Institute for Medical and Health Sciences organized a virtual seminar entitled ”MVE Biological Solutions” by Mr. Jean Marc. Through the seminar Mr. Jean introduced the newly released MVE Fusion™ Freezer Series, Self‐sustaining cryogenic storage system and highlighted its properties and capabilities.
10- Strategies to Combat the Multidrug-Resistant Microorganism: Candida Auris, New Emerging Fungal Monster
The Research Institute of Medical and Health Sciences organized a seminar entitled ”Strategies to Combat the Multidrug-Resistant Microorganism: Candida Auris, New Emerging Fungal Monster” by Dr. Bahgat Fayed, Post-doctoral Research Associate - Infectious disease and anti-infective therapy research group of SIMR. Through this seminar, Dr. Bahgat shared his findings regarding the treatment of Candida Auris (multi-drug-resistant yeast) infections.
11- Python: A Python or A Snail?
As part of the RISE Graduate Research Assistants Seminars Series, Mariam Orabi, MSc Graduate Research Assistant from the Big Data Mining and Multimedia Research Group, presented a seminar entitled “Python: A Python or A Snail?”. Through this seminar, she explained the aspects in which the Python programming language can be slow and shared some useful tools and tricks for overcoming the challenging execution time issues in Python.
12- Workshop on How to Select a Research Topic for Postgraduate Students
The College of Graduate Studies in collaboration with the College of Sharia and Islamic studies organized a workshop for postgraduate students entitled “How to select a research topic – the literature review” presented by Dr. Hasan Habshan. This helpful workshop focused on key criteria for the selection of a research topic. It also presented students with tools to guide them in reviewing the literature and choosing a topic that is clear, specific and original.
13- Workshop for MSc Programs at UoS: From Admission to Graduation
The College of Graduate Studies organized a very informative workshop entitled “MSc Programs at the UoS: From Admission to Graduation” delivered by Dr. Ali Bou Nassif and Prof. Raafat El-Awady. This workshop clarified regulations and bylaws related to master programs at the University of Sharjah. This interactive workshop also addressed many inquiries raised by master students to ensure a smooth postgraduate experience. 14- Graduate Studies Workshop on Communication Skills
Ms. Ghida Kaziha delivered a workshop on communication skills organized by the College of Graduate Studies in collaboration with the College of Arts, Humanities and Social sciences. This workshop focused on the importance of effective communication particularly from a business standpoint. It also offered practical tips on how to improve communication skills.
15- Scientific Research Approaches-Introduction and Criteria for Productive Thinking Workshop
Dr. Hasan Habshan delivered a workshop entitled “Scientific Research Approaches- Introduction and Criteria for Productive Thinking” organized by the College of Graduate Studies in collaboration with the College of Sharia and Islamic Studies. This workshop introduced postgraduate students to the basics of conducting scientific research. It also stressed on the significant role played by scientific research in building on previous knowledge and solving existing problems.
16- Seminar on Reinforced Concrete Slabs Modelling Using Concrete Damaged Plasticity Constitutive Model in Abaqus
RISE’ Graduate Research Assistants Seminars Series continues with another informative seminar entitled “Reinforced Concrete Slabs Modelling Using Concrete Damaged Plasticity Constitutive Model in Abaqus.” Delivered by Humam MHD Al Sebai, an academic lecturer and Research Assistant specialized in the field of structural engineering, the seminar discussed parametric investigations based on the material and plasticity parameters carried out to inspect the accuracy of some empirical equations.
17- SIMR Seminars Series “Development of an In-house Bovine Bone Graft for Safe Clinical Use”
Dr. Aghila Rani Nair, Post-doctoral Research Associate and member of the Wound Healing and Oral Diagnosis Research Group at the Sharjah Institute for Medical Research delivered a seminar where she discussed her study on developing a biomimetic support from bovine bones that has minimal immunological complications when implanted in the recipient. The results of her study show that the biodegradable, osteoinductive and osteoconductive properties of the in house developed bone grafts as evidenced by in vitro and in vivo experiments suggest the potential for safe clinical use.
18- The University of Sharjah Organized an Educational Scientific Symposium Entitled “Patentable Subject Matter & Examination for Science & Engineering Fields”
The University of Sharjah has organized a seminar entitled: “Patentable subject matter & examination for Science & Engineering fields” - organized bythe Technology Transfer Office [TTO] at the Vice Chancellor for Research and Graduate Studies Office. The seminar covered several topics, including the process of innovation and the relationship between it and patent registration. The seminar also presented the different stages and steps of the inventions, from the idea to the product and how it’s important to have a patent protection for universities to pave the road to commercialize their inventions. The seminar was conducted by Eng. Ahmed Salih – from Al Tamimi & Co. and moderated by Dr. Mohamed Al Hemairy – Head of TTO. Research Meetings & Visits
1- Meeting with the Ministry of Community Development to Promote Cooperation
To strengthen cooperation between the Ministry of Community Development and the University of Sharjah an online meeting was conducted where both parties discussed ways of cooperation in the fields of applied scientific research aimed at serving and developing society in general and in the field of humanities and social sciences research in particular, as well as discussing cooperation in the field of training and employment and the introduction of new academic programs.
2- PhD Thesis Co-supervision Between UoS and Dubai Police on Operational Excellence
Prof. Ahmed Al-Shammaa, Dean of College of Engineering, and Rola Rasheed Hassan, Doctorate student in Engineering Management, conducted an online meeting with Dr. Jorge Roman and Dr. Issa Basaeed from Dubai Police. This in the presence of Dr. Manar Abu Talib, Chair of Research Outreach Department, to kick off the PhD Thesis Co-supervision with Dubai Police in the field of Operational Excellence.
3- Collaborative Research Project Between Dubai Police, Dubai Municipality and University of Sharjah
A team of researchers lead by Dr. Qassim Nasir and Dr. Manar Abu Talib conducted an online meeting for discussing a collaborative research project with Dubai Police and Dubai Municipality. The project objective is to develop a hybrid facility location solution for localizing candidate facilities viable as COVID testing/vaccinating centers.
4- Meeting Between UoS and RTA to Finalize Project Proposal
A team of researchers from the University of Sharjah conducted an online meeting with Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) to finalize the project proposal for designing an efficient and smart long-range drone for medical supplies delivery and transport in Dubai. 5- Meeting Between College of Law and General Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA) to Discuss Research Collaboration
The College of Law received a delegation from the General Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA) to discuss research collaboration opportunities. Researchers of various expertise within the College of Law shared their ideas with the aim offinding common ground between the two organizations and finding research areas that will serve both academia and real-world problems.
6- Authority of Social Contribution Ma’an Meets with the University of Sharjah for a New Collaborative Project
Authority of Social contribution Ma’an invited Prof. Faker Al Gharaibeh, Acting Director of the Research Institute of Humanities & Social Sciences (RIHSS), Dr. Manar Abu Talib, Chair of Research Outreach Department, and Dr. Shareefa Al- Marzooqi, Director of Media Center, for a meeting to discuss a new collaborative project on awareness consulting and divorce research.
7- Meeting with Dubai Police Innovation Center Team
Dr. Mohamed Al Hemairy, Head of Technology Transfer Office of the Office of the Vice-Chancellor for Research & Graduate Studies and member of the Advisory Board of the Innovation Centre at Dubai Police met with the Dubai Police Innovation Center team to discuss further cooperation between the two parties.
8- 5G Industry Application Center at Huawei
Online visit to “5G Industry Application Center” at Huawei, which is located in Shenzhen.
9- Visit of His Excellency Husin Bagis Baqees, Ambassador of the Republic of Indonesia
His Excellency Prof. Hamid M.K. Al Naimiy, Chancellor of the University of Sharjah, received His Excellency Husin Bagis Baqees, Ambassador of the Republic of Indonesia to the UAE and his accompanying delegation during their visit to the University of Sharjah. Several Vice Chancellors, the Director of the University’s International Cooperation Office, and faculty members attended the meeting. The purpose of the visit was to discuss opportunities for scientific and academic cooperation with several universities and academic institutions in the Republic of Indonesia, especially Binawan University specialized in the fields of medical, health and nursing sciences. As well as exchange of students to complete practical training in those fields at the University of Sharjah. College of Law Organized a Conference on Modern Technology and Legal Challenges
Under the sponsorship of His Highness Sheik Sultan Bin Mohammed Al-Qassimi, member of the Supreme Council and ruler of Sharjah and president of the University of Sharjah (God bless him and grant him sponsorship), the conference, which will be held on Tuesday, will run virtually over seven scientific sessions. The conference, “Modern Technology is one of the contemporary legal challenges”, will be attended by scholars and researchers from several Arab and foreign countries.
The Director of Sharjah University Dr. Hussein al-Mahmoudi, CEO of At the launch of the “Modern raised the highest level of thanks the Sharjah Research, Technology Technology is one of the and gratitude to His Highness Sheik and Innovation Complex, a contemporary legal challenges” Sultan Bin Mohammed Al-Qasimi, keynote speaker at the conference conference, Professor Dr. Imad member of the Supreme Council “Modern Technology is one of the Eddine Abdul Hai, dean of the Faculty and Governor of Sharjah, President contemporary legal challenges”, of Law, said that Sharjah University of the University of Sharjah (may discussed the challenges and is in a constant race with a distinct God protect him and his sponsors), obstacles facing research and and different logic, and that the during the launch of the conference, development in the country. He current era is characterized by the “Modern Technology is one of the said the emirate seeks to become a imprint of technology that leaves contemporary legal challenges”. leading global center for innovation, its mark in all fields. Therefore, The conference recommendations research and digital technology to we need an effective legislative should be applicable and could be become one of the world’s smart framework that regulates the work implemented in our Arab societies cities. of modern technology, especially in in a way that suits the nature of the the area of responsibility for acts of countries of the region. artificial intelligence.
“Modern Technology is one of the contemporary legal challenges”, which makes 15 important recommendations at its closing session. The most prominent of these recommendations was: Patent smart applications as an independent electronic legal personality, add a legislative provision criminalizing the falsification of electronic signatures, the eligibility of heirs to continue to exploit the deceased’s social networking sites, conclude an international agreement to protect and secure the peaceful use of AI applications, and establish a law school legislative laboratory to support the enactment of AI application legislation. Press Conference for Announcing the Preparations for The Second Forum for Women in Research “Quwa: Empowering Women in Research and Innovation”
in Conjunction with ArabWIC 7th International Conference on Arab Women in Computing
The University of Sharjah will hold the Second Forum for Women in Research under the theme “Quwa: Empowering Women in Research and Innovation” in conjunction with the in conjunction with ArabWIC 7th International Conference on Arab Women in Computing over a two-day period from the 25th to the 26th of August 2021.
Golden Sponsors
During the virtual press conference held Tuesday March 23, 2021, His Excellency Prof. Hamid Al- Naimiy, Chancellor of University of Sharjah began his speech by raising the highest and deepest meanings of pride to Her Highness (Mother of the UAE) Sheikha Fatima Bint Mubarak, chairwoman of the General Women’s Union, the Supreme Council for Motherhood and Childhood and the Family Development Foundation, and to Her Highness Sheikha Jawaher bint Muhammad Al Qasimi, the wife of His Highness the Ruler of Sharjah, President of the Supreme Council for Family Affairs in Sharjah. He also congratulated all female colleagues and researchers at the University of Sharjah as well as all the pioneers of humanitarian, social and scientific work in the United Arab Emirates and abroad on the International Women’s Day. The Chancellor added, “I am very proud of your initiative in launching this forum as it represents the contributions women researchers and specialist make in elevating the United Arab Emirates on national, regional and global levels. Additionally, I would like to highlight that the increase of publications by University of Sharjah female researchers in international journals has been greatly reflected in the Scopes global database”. Prof. Maamar Bettayeb, Vice Chancellor for Research and Graduate Studies, also expressed his happiness and stressed on the importance of women at the University of Sharjah in all positions be it administrative, research, or leadership positions. He also emphasized the role of women in the field of scientific research in improving the university within the international rankings. Representing GlaxoSmithKline (GSK) one of the forum’s golden sponsor, Dr. Sherine Lazar, Director of Pharmacovigilance and Clinical Governance in the Gulf Region at GlaxoSmithKline, presented a brief introduction about the pharmaceutical company and shared several of its initiatives for supporting women such as their Women Leaders Initiative, their program for accelerating differences for high-performance managers, in addition to women-friendly policies within the organization such as the work flexibility and extended maternity leave. Dr. Sherine also emphasized that cooperation with the University of Sharjah aims to support female students in the UAE and to encourage them to innovate, discover and contribute positively to the field of scientific research. Representing the second golden sponsor, Emirates NBD, the leading banking group in the Middle East, North Africa and Turkey and a major player in the global digital banking-industry, Ms. Samira Abdullah Al Balooshi, Vice President and Head of Diversity, Inclusion and Culture at Emirates NBD, explained that the bank adopts a strategy based on innovation, supporting talent, and enhancing the role of women as a driver for its achievements. In addition, the company empowers female employees to lead senior positions and provisions various solutions such as flexible working hours and remote working. She concluded her speech by thanking the University of Sharjah for the opportunity to participate in this event which is in line with its policy and strategies. One of the presidents of the Seventh Conference on Arab Women in Computing, Dr. Kawthar El Maghraoui, a researcher, data scientist and artificial intelligence engineer at the IBM Watson Research Center, shared that the t the establishment and purpose of the Arab Women in Computing Conference is to inspire, support and celebrate women in the field of computing in the Arab world and to establish links with the global technology organizations. she also listed the research topics and key areas for this year such as artificial intelligence, data science, cloud computing, Internet of things and robotics, as well as other important subjects in research innovation in computing and entrepreneurship, the role of women in emerging technology companies, the gender gap, positive trends and challenges. Prof. Leila Benhalima, a professor of higher education, Muhammadiyah School of Engineers, Mohammed V University in Rabat, and a president of the Seventh International Conference on Arab Women in Computing, confirmed that the conference, in its successive versions, encouraged scientific research in which women are the main researcher. She hopes to receive more publication this year in all areas of computing, and in light of the pandemic, she also encourages publication related to Covid-19. Prof. Leila concluded by saying she strongly believes that women in general and Arab women in particular are able to occupy an important place in innovation, and development their countries.
Dr. Manar Abu Talib, Chair of the Research Outreach Department at the University of Sharjah, confirmed that the Seventh International Conference on Arab Women in Computing aims to support, inspire, and encourage women in the field of computing. It also creates a platform for exchanging ideas and experiences and opening channels of communication and cooperation in the Arab region and beyond. The second forum for women in research aims to encourage and motivate women to continue pursuing the field of scientific research by presenting the achievements women have made in research. The forum will include many research awards in various fields that address important issues, topics and pressing research challenges.
The second Forum for Women in Research announces the “Excellence in Scientific Research Award for Female Students” and the “Excellence in Scientific Research Award for Female Faculty Members” with a total prize values of (150,000 dirhams). The judging criteria will be based on academic partnership with industry, innovation and impact on society, provided that the research work has not been previously published and that the researcher presenting the research is affiliated a universities in United Arab Emirates. The deadline for submitting abstracts is May 16, 2021. The forum will be hosted jointly by the University of Sharjah and the Research and Development Center of the Dubai Electricity and Water Authority. The center, in cooperation with the University of Sharjah, will provide technical workshops by Emirati researchers and international experts. “Police, Legal and Economic Technical Exchange Meeting:
Social Responsibility and Quality of Life”
The University of Sharjah held the third RIHSS Technical Exchange Meeting titled “Police, Legal and Economic Technical Exchange Meeting: Social Responsibility and Quality of Life” organized by Office of the Vice Chancellor for Research and Graduate Studies through the collaboration of Research Outreach Department and Research Institute for Humanities and Social Sciences at the University of Sharjah. This edition of the Technical Exchange Meeting for RIHSS was aimed to discuss various imperative topics such as enhancing the quality of interdependence and community relations within the family and society, enhancing the quality of digital life, encouraging positive and purposeful digital societies, adopting the concept of quality of life in learning and work environments and focusing on consolidating the values of giving, cooperation, volunteering, cohesion and solidarity to serve society and enhancing the viability, attractiveness and sustainability of cities. The Technical Exchange Meeting also discussed research opportunities that can achieve those visions through partnership with police and economic institutions to serve the community in all fields.
The event began with an opening speech from His Excellency Prof. Hamid Al Naimiy, Chancellor of University of Sharjah where he stated that this forum confirms the role of the University of Sharjah in partnership with the various institutions to achieve societal and economic stability, confronting crime and reducing the chances of its impact which falls in line with the country’s strategy for quality-of-life 2031. The strategy focuses on three main aspects: individuals, society, and the country. The 2031 strategy aims to promote the pattern of Individuals’ lives by encouraging the practice of positive and healthy behavior, mental health, and positive thinking. Prof. Maamar Bettayeb, Vice Chancellor for Research and Graduate Studies, added that through the infrastructure formed by the University of Sharjah to bring together professors, students, researchers and scientists within institutes, centers and research groups, we look forward to stronger cooperation with local institutions to activate projects and applied research in the field under the supervision of specialists to achieve social and economic development by highlighting societal issues and finding solutions to them.
His Excellency Brigadier General Abdullah Mubarak bin Amer, Deputy Commander-in-Chief of Sharjah Police and His Excellency Brigadier General Dr. Salem Ahmed Al Mazrouei, Deputy Commander-in-Chief of Umm Al Quwain Police also emphasized the importance of collaborative research in enhancing social responsibility and safety.
The first panel discussion was chaired by Prof. Dr. Faker Al-Gharaibeh, Director of the Institute for Human and Social Research, titled “Scientific Research and Community, Police and Legal Partnerships” with the participation of His Excellency Colonel Ali Al-Dhabhi, Deputy Director of the Sharjah Police Research Center, and His Excellency Lieutenant Colonel Dr. Jasim Abdullah bin Omair, Head of the Security Information Department, Police Umm Al Quwain, His Excellency Fatima Khalil bin Touq, a social worker from Umm Al Quwain Police, His Excellency Major, expert Dr. Rawda Al Shamsi, Chairman of the Charity Committee, representative of the Dubai Police Scholars Council, and His Excellency Captain Muhammad Saif Al Hinai, Director of the Center for Research and Police Studies at the Abu Dhabi Police General Command.
The second panel discussion was chaired by Prof. Dr. Hussain Al-Tamimi, Director of Postgraduate Programs at the College of Business Administration, titled “Scientific Research and Community and Economic Partnerships” with the participation of His Excellency Awatif Al-Harmoudi, Director General of Operations and Governance at Emirates Islamic Bank, His Excellency Hassan Al-Bulghouni, Head of Institutional Communication at Sharjah Islamic Bank, and His Excellency Ahmed Amin Al Hajri, Director of Legislation and Legal Studies Department at the Department of Economic Development in the Emirate of Dubai, Her Excellency Saqr Muhammad Al Attar, Legal Auditor at the Audit Bureau, Her Excellency Aisha Al Shamsi, Head of Payroll Section at the Accounts Department of the Central Finance Department in the Emirate of Sharjah, and H.E. Maitha Al Mulla, Community Services Officer at the Dubai Financial Market.
The Technical Exchange Meeting was concluded with the below recommendation focused on scientific research related to digital societies, cybersecurity, quality of life, drug abuse and road accidents.
• Setting priorities for postgraduate students and researchers at the University of Sharjah and the participating bodies • Employing the results of scientific research in decision-making in the policing, legislative and economic fields • Studying the causes of drug abuse and addiction and its impact on families in the emirate of Sharjah • Implementing joint research projects in the field of digital quality of life and quality of life. • Studying the characteristics of a positive digital society in the UAE • Studying proactive traffic services, road accidents and compliance with the law • Carrying out multidisciplinary studies and research in the field of economic and cyber security • Building scientific metrics to predict the risks of crime, electronic fraud and attacking bank accounts Research Projects in Collaboration with SEWA
The purpose of this circular is to highlight the joint research collaboration between researchers in the Research Institute of Sciences & Engineering (RISE) at the University of Sharjah (UoS) and professionals from the Sharjah Electricity, Water and gas Authority (SEWA). In this circular, the following projects are highlighted:
•Grey-water Reuse Policies and Practice in Sharjah •Circulation Modeling near Al-Hamriyah Lagoon •Spatiotemporal Analysis of Groundwater in Sharjah •Solar Absorption Air Conditioning System in Sharjah •Hybrid PV-thermal collector •Demand Side Management Using Hybrid Power Systems •Techno-Economic and Environmental Analysis of Drinkable Air Systems Under Hot and Humid Weather Conditions in Sharjah
H.E. Prof. Hamid Al-Naimiy H.E. Saeed Sultan Al Suwaidi Prof. Maamar Bettayeb Chancellor of UoS Chairman of SEWA Vice Chancellor for Research & Graduate Studies, UoS
Previously, a research chair position in the name of SEWA was established at UoS to support research and educational activities related to energy, water and environmental protection. As an addendum to the agreement and following discussions, a number of projects were agreed between the two parties in the areas of water and energy. The coordinators of collaboration and the chair position from the two parties are: 1.Prof. Abdallah Shanableh, from UoS 2.Eng. Mayyada AlBardan, from SEWA
Prof. Abdallah Shanableh Eng. Mayyada Al Bardan Prof. Abdallah Shanableh (PI), Dr. Chaouki Ghenai (PI), UoS UoS
Greywater Reuse in Sharjah - Policies and Practice Solar Powered Absorption Chiller Air Conditioning System Sharjah is highly dependent on desalination for water supply in urban areas, which comes at significant financial and Future energy demand in the UAE will increase due to environmental costs. Therefore, reducing the demand for population growth, economic activities and high consumption water is a strategic objective of the Sharjah Electricity, Water rates. This is not sustainable in the long term. Based on the and Gas Authority (SEWA). Residential water conservation and latest estimates from the UAE Ministry of Energy, there is 9% greywater recycling (GWR) are potentially feasible options increase annually of the demand of energy in the UAE. The for reducing water demand and wastewater generation. UAE’s energy sector is undergoing a major transformation In 2004, SEWA became the first authority in the region to targeting diversification of UAE’s energy mix – increase the demand greywater reuse from large consumers, such as penetration of renewable (solar) and nuclear energy in the shopping centers, government buildings, and hotels. The energy mix and the deployment and intensification of energy program however faced some difficulties related to policies, efficiency efforts. The development of sustained energy technologies, and implementation. A joint team from the efficiency strategy will help to slow the growth of energy University of Sharjah (UoS) and SEWA was established consumption. The energy consumption in UAE buildings to assess the Sharjah’s GWR program, including policies, mainly in air conditioning accounts for about 60-70% of the technologies, and implementation, and propose appropriate total energy of the building. The challenge is to design and modifications and improvements. build houses and buildings of low energy consumption that suits the gulf environment in general and UAE in particular. The UAE weather is a challenge for building designer because of the high temperatures and high humidity in summer. The main objective of the proposed research study is to design a solar thermal absorption cooling system with 10 tones capacity in Sharjah. The study will include (1) simulation and modeling analysis to optimize the solar cooling system; (2) set up and test the performance of the system under Sharjah weather conditions; and (3) determine the conditions to achieve and maintain cooling conditions (temperature, humidity, cleanliness and distribution) to meet the requirement of the conditioned space.
Techno-Economic and Environmental Analysis of Drinkable Air Systems Under Hot and Humid Weather Conditions in Sharjah
The University of Sharjah (UoS), Sharjah Electricity and Water Authority (SEWA), and Drinkable Air Company are proposing to develop a collaborative research project on the performance and optimization of Drinkable Air units (water production from humid air) under Sharjah weather conditions. The amount and quality of water production; Prof. Abdallah Shanableh (PI), the energy consumed by the system; the design, performance and optimization of UoS renewable and clean energy system (solar PV) for drinkable air system, forecasting of the water production using training data and Sharjah input weather conditions, Dr. Chaouki Ghenai (PI), and economic (cost of the water production) and environmental analysis will be UoS investigated in this study. The main objective of the research study is to test the performance (quality and quantity of water production, specific energy consumption kWh/m3) of the C3, C8, and C60 drinkable air systems under Sharjah weather conditions and to develop forecasting model for water production. The project goal is to develop sustainable system to produce fresh and clean drinking water from humid air using renewable and clean power system (water-energy nexus). Dr. Abdallah Gokhan Yilmaz Dr. Tareq Salameh (PI), UoS (PI), UoS
Spatio-Temporal Analysis of Ground Water in Demand Side Management using Stand-Alone Sharjah Hybrid Power Systems
Groundwater is an essential source of water in Sharjah, The location of Sharjah is closed to equator region, this which is located in one of the most water-stressed regions make the Emirate of Sharjah has high potential of solar in the world. Sharjah is highly dependent on desalination energy during the year. The solar energy can be used for and groundwater to satisfy rapidly increasing water demand. many applications depend on the conversion of solar energy Therefore, a joint team from the University of Sharjah (UoS) to thermal energy or electrical energy as in solar heater, and SEWA was established to analyze groundwater level solar cooler, concentrated solar power plant (CSP) and and quality for sustainable management of groundwater photovoltaic. There for the hybrid system used in UAE must resources. Comprehensive analysis of available groundwater include at least one of these applications for solar energy data provides information on Spatio-temporal changes work together with another nomination type of renewable in groundwater level and quality, leading to a better resource. In this study, the simulation will perform for similar understanding of groundwater problems in the region. Given condition load in Sharjah, where the weather data and load the fact that groundwater is a key resource for freshwater will consider in order to know how the hybrid system will supply in the UAE and Sharjah Emirate, the outcome of cover the energy demand and reduce the energy cost and this research is anticipated to contribute to sustainable carbon foot print. groundwater management in Sharjah. Therefore, this project aligns with SEWA’s strategic water management plan for the upcoming years.
Dr. Mohsin Siddique (PI), Dr. Ahmed Amine Hachicha UoS (PI) UoS
Circulation and Water Quality Modelling in and Hybrid PV-Thermal Collector Around the Al-Hamriyah Lagoon (Sharjah) Following the strategic vision of the UAE towards Hamriyah desalination and power plant is located on the implementing alternative sources of energy, the study coastline along Al-Hamriyah City in the Emirates of Sharjah. of hybrid PV-thermal collector may help to increase the To supply water for the plant, an intake structure inside a penetration of renewable energy and harness more solar purpose-build lagoon, called Hamriyah Lagoon. Hamriyah energy for water heating and electricity applications. lagoon is connected to the Arabian Gulf where the water is Hybrid PV-thermal collector is a promising technology that exchanged between the lagoon and the Gulf. The plant has combines both technologies: PV and solar thermal collector been reported to experience biological fouling related issues. in one compact design to produce electricity and hot water A recent autopsy of membrane sample, that is included in the at the same time. In this project, the main purpose isto Hydronations SWC5 reverse osmosis (RO) system of plant, explore the maximum potential of this solution under UAE confirmed the presence of foulant layer. A joint team from conditions using different cooling strategies. Therefore, a the University of Sharjah (UoS) and SEWA was established unique all in one installation that includes various cooling to develop a comprehensive 2D hydrodynamic and water strategies (front/back cooling, nanofluids, PCM) has been quality model using Delft3D software to understand the designed using an innovative hybrid PV-thermal collector. hydrodynamics and water quality in/around the Hamriyah The project involves the study of dust effect and predict lagoon with the goal to identify the causes of biological the soiling losses in PV technology which is considered one fouling and make recommendations that could improve the of the major challenges of implementing such technology plant operation. under UAE weather conditions. Editorial Team
Editorial’s Team Note: We are delighted to introduce you to UOS Research Newsletter, which keeps you and the society posted with up-to-date research news and activities of our prominent Faculty Members and Students at the University of Sharjah. Therefore, we invite you to share your research achievements and contributions to be posted in our future periodical issues and highlight them to our colleagues and the society.
Dr. Mohamed Al Hemairy Dr. Manar Abu Talib Head, Technology Transfer Office Chair, Research Outreach Department 050 222 0015 052 908 1891 [email protected] [email protected]
Ayesha Ahli - Technology Transfer Office Bayan Mahfood - Research Outreach Department Rama Rezq Al-Jaber - Media Editor Salah Shanableh - Marketing and Student Recruitment
Previous Issues https://www.sharjah.ac.ae/en/Research/Outreach/Pages/Research-Newsletter.aspx http://www.sharjah.ac.ae/en/Research/Pages/default.aspx