Dubai Biotechnology and Research Park signs Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with UAE University
The Dubai Biotechnology and Research Park (DuBiotech), the region’s first biotechnology cluster, announced today that it has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the UAE University to create the framework for a partnership to foster research in the UAE.
Through this new partnership DuBiotech and UAE University aim to promote academic-industry links that will advance excellence in biotechnology and pharmaceutical research.
Under the terms of the MoU, DuBiotech and UAE University will combine their research expertise to initiate joint projects, programmes and activities. Another key objective of the partnership is to work together in developing biotechnology talent in the region. Select UAE University students will be awarded internships to work for projects initiated by both DuBiotech and companies in its cluster.
“The MoU identifies productive areas of cooperation between DuBiotech and UAE University, and creates the framework for joint efforts aimed at raising awareness about the importance of academic research, specially in the field of biotechnology,” commented Dr. Hadif Bin Jua’an Al Dhahiri, Director of UAE University.
The organisations will also jointly develop an online employment resource called the ‘Regional Job Bank.’ The ‘Job Bank’ will serve as a resource pool for the industry to source biotechnology and pharmaceutical talent. It will facilitate placements for a large number of students and professionals from the region in the industry. Dr. Al Dhahiri said the online Job Bank would be an important means of enhancing the biotechnology industry at both local and regional levels.
A joint working group consisting of three members each from DuBiotech and UAE University will be set up to further the objectives of the MoU.
DuBiotech and UAE University will partner to secure grants and funding for joint research projects from various multilateral international organisations. The two will develop a framework, processes and criteria for optimally investing this external funding in joint research projects.
“Joining forces with UAE University is a strategic step towards enhancing biotechnology and pharmaceutical research in the region,” said Dr. Abdulqader Al Khayat, Executive Director of Dubai Biotechnology and Research Park. “DuBiotech is very keen on building close ties with academic institutions, particularly in the fields of research and job creation. We are confident that our cooperation with UAE University will assist in maximising research opportunities in the UAE and the region” he added.
“There is an increasing need to develop strong platforms for scientific research within the UAE and we are glad to work together with DuBiotech in initiating such a platform”, said Dr. Maithaa Salim Al Shamsi, UAE University. “Our collaboration will certainly enhance research projects, particularly through securing necessary funding which is a key catalyst in developing scientific innovation”, she explained.
In addition, the organisations will collaborate to introduce or enhance regulatory frameworks to meet international standards in cooperation with local and federal government bodies such as the Ministry of Health (MoH).
The organisations will also work together to raise awareness on the importance and value of biotech research in region, through various means including training of selected scientists and students, hosting of researchers in the UAE and joint awareness campaigns and conferences.
Source : www.dubiotech.com
