WAM Abu Dhabi, May 24th, 2012 (WAM)--Masdar Institute of Science and Technology today announced the launch of Ektashif program, a 12-day residential program for UAE nationals to learn about cutting-edge research in renewable energy, sustainability and the environment.

An integral part of Masdar Institute's outreach program, Ektashif program begins from 8 July and will see students participating in design challenges, field trips, evening lectures, and recreational activities, in addition to their laboratory activities. The program will aim to bring together talented UAE national undergraduate engineering and science students from various nation-wide universities to participate in exciting hands-on labs conducted by Masdar Institute faculty.

In addition to being a UAE national majoring in engineering or science, potential candidates are required to be among the top performers academically with a GPA of at least 3.50 on a scale of 4.00. Demonstrated interest, talent or scholastic output relating to renewable energy and/or environmental issues will also be mandatory to become eligible for the Ektashif program.

Dr Lamya Nawaf Fawwaz, Executive Director, Public Affairs, Masdar Institute, said: "Through the support and encouragement of the UAE's leadership, Masdar Institute continues to develop educational opportunities for talented young UAE nationals. The Ektashif program has been specially developed to spur the creatively-tuned UAE national undergraduates in Engineering and Science to strengthen their research knowledge horizons. The program as its name suggests, is an opportunity for the students to explore the learning streams in clean energy and advanced technology areas and assess their own suitability for pursuing higher studies. We anticipate a large number of students to take part in this program and acquire additional insights in environment and sustainability-related subjects." Some of the lab topics that will be hosted at Masdar Institute as part of the Ektashif program include �Introduction to Nanotechnology', �Desalination Technologies', �Artificial Intelligence', �Testing the Energy Output of Bio Fuels', �Introduction to Masdar Institute's Imaging Lab', �Wind Turbine Design and Efficiency Testing', �PV Theory, Design '&' Testing', �Radiometer Platform and Associated Equipment', and �Polyethylene Testing for Recycling' as well as areas that are strategically relevant and important to the UAE and Abu Dhabi in research and development.

Evening lectures in energy, environment or sustainability may include �Addressing Sustainability and Energy Demands in the UAE', �Economic and Technical Assessment of Solar Cooling Technologies', �Health Risks of New Materials and Products', and �Renewable Energy Needs and Technologies in Developing Countries'.

Established as an ongoing collaboration with the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), Masdar Institute integrates theory and practice to incubate a culture of innovation and entrepreneurship, working to develop the critical thinkers and leaders of tomorrow. With its world-class faculty and top-tier students, the Institute is committed to finding solutions to the challenges of clean energy and climate change through education and research.

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