Fulbright-Egypt hosts its Annual Research Center Directors’ Meeting in collaboration with the Supreme Council of Research Centers

The Fulbright Commission held its annual meeting for the presidents of research centers under the theme “Translating Scientific Research into Solutions for Egypt and the World.” The event was attended by Dr. Yasser Refaat, Senior Advisor to H.E. the Minister of Higher Education and Scientific Research for Governance, Policies, and Scientific Research Applications, and Dr. Emad Hassan, Secretary-General of the Supreme Council for Research Centers. Leaders of research centers, Fulbright program alumni, and industry representatives participated with the goal of enhancing the role of scientific research in supporting sustainable development and addressing national and global challenges.

The Fulbright team, led by Dr. Maggie Nassif, Executive Director of the Commission, welcomed the guests and presented an overview of the academic and research exchange programs and opportunities as part of Fulbright’s ongoing efforts to promote academic excellence, foster international cooperation, and build research capacity. Prof. Dr. Yasser Refaat delivered the opening address on the strategic priorities of research centers in a rapidly changing world.

Discussions focused on successful models for connecting scientific research with industry. Dr. Ibrahim Ghayad, President of the Central Metallurgical Research and Development Institute (CMRDI), Dr. Sherin Mohram, President of the Electronics Research Institute (ERI), and Dr. Tarek El-Shazly, Director of the Egyptian Petroleum Research Institute (EPRI), reviewed pioneering experiences in technology transfer, localizing innovation, and transforming research outputs into practical applications that support economic and industrial development, with the participation of several industry partners.

The event also featured a dedicated session highlighting the success stories of Fulbright alumni. Dr. Tamer Sakr, Professor at the Atomic Energy Authority, presented his experience in the field of nuclear sciences titled “Building Bridges in Nuclear Science: Fostering Bilateral Innovation Through the Fulbright Experience.” Additionally, Dr. Ghada Saleh, Associate Professor at the Faculty of Medicine, Ain Shams University, delivered a presentation titled “The Importance of Leadership and Management for Researchers,” addressing the impact of professional and leadership development in advancing research and institutional excellence.