Emirates Foundation announces second round of grants for enhancement of science laboratory classrooms

The Foundation now invites colleges and universities to apply for funding and this second year of funding will see grants awarded following a competitive selection process.

Peter Cleaves, CEO of the Emirates Foundation, commented:

"It is vital to the growth of the UAE as a centre of scientific excellence that we nurture the talents of our emerging scientists. This project works towards this goal by providing students with modern, well-equipped laboratories where they can obtain extensive hands-on experience."

The laboratory enhancement project was launched in the first term of the 2008-2009 academic year. From the applications submitted, six universities were selected to receive funding: Abu Dhabi University, College of Chemistry and Biology; Abu Dhabi University, College of Soil Mechanics and Geotechnical; American University of Dubai, Environmental Wet-Lab; American University of Sharjah, Environmental Science Program; Al Ain Science and Technology University, College of Chemistry and Biology; and Al Ain Science and Technology University, College of Science and Engineering.

Dr Cleaves added that the project had been renewed for the 2009-2010 academic year in order to extend the benefit of improved laboratory facilities to as many students as possible.

Applicants are invited to submit a two-page proposal describing their current laboratory facilities, objectives for the laboratory to be enhanced, laboratory enhancement proposed, budgetary analysis and anticipated impact of the proposed enhancement. Short-listed applicants will subsequently be invited to submit a detailed grant application form.