The Qatar University Young Scientists Centre (QUYSC) successfully completed the 6th cycle of the Summer Research Internship Programme 2024 (SRIP24), which imparted hands-on experience in cutting-edge scientific disciplines to the participants.
The adjourning event celebrated their accomplishments, concluding a summer rich in research, capacity building and innovative ventures.
The event commenced with a welcome speech from QUYSC director and research support director Dr Saeed Hashim al-Meer, who congratulated the students and mentors, emphasising the importance of their contributions to the national research landscape. This year witnessed a huge surge of registered projects, with 650 students participating in 82 projects, reflecting a more than 100% increase compared to the previous year. In recognition of their hard work, 381 students who met the Key Performance Indicators and requirements were awarded certificates for their participation in research projects across multiple disciplines, including artificial intelligence, nanotechnology, medical sciences, sustainable energy, and social sciences. The ceremony concluded with the recognition of the best projects, all of which aligned with the Qatar National Vision 2030 in promoting sustainable innovation and development. The first-place went to ‘Development of Invisible Cloak to Hide the Object’. ‘IoT-based Air Quality Monitoring’ and ‘Investigating Antioxidant and Antimicrobial Activity of Pulicaria Undulata Plants’ shared second place. The third place went to ‘Advanced Fabrication Technologies for Dental Implants: Exploring the Role of 3D and 4D Printing’. These projects stood out for their alignment with national priorities and their contribution to future scientific advancements. The event also featured a poster exhibition showcasing novel research projects, highlighting the range of innovative work undertaken by students. SRIP24 introduced a novel pedagogical approach, ‘Innovation through Cognition Challenge’, which resulted in various tangible outcomes such as prototypes, research publications, and posters, some of which were displayed at the event. This unique framework empowered students to transform theoretical research into real-world application.
In his reflective assessment of the programme, Prof Aiman Erbad, vice president for Research and Graduate Studies at QU, highlighted the critical role of research internships in national development. He remarked: “Initiatives such as SRIP24 are fundamental in enhancing our national expertise and nurturing the next generation of innovators. By presenting our students with real-world challenges and equipping them with the tools to solve them, we are fostering a cadre of thought leaders who will drive Qatar’s development and innovative progress.”
