Idaho State University Inks Research Collaboration MoUs with Australian University and University of Doha for Science and Technology

Recently, representatives from Idaho State University (ISU) signed memorandums of understanding with Australian University (AU) in Kuwait and the University of Doha for Science and Technology (UDST) located in Doha, Qatar. Over the next three years, ISU and AU plan to collaborate on research projects ranging from artificial intelligence to green and resilient construction methods. Meanwhile, the five-year MoU with UDST sees ISU working together on research projects in civil and environmental engineering, energy, as well as disaster response and training. 

“We are excited for our students to engage in these shared research initiatives,” said Martin Blair, vice president for research and economic development at Idaho State University. “ISU is recognized as a leader, and our faculty and research facilities are sought after by experts worldwide. We view our partnerships with Australian University and the University of Doha for Science and Technology as another opportunity to lead and learn.”

“We at Australian University are enthusiastic about this collaborative venture with Idaho State University, which we see as a significant milestone in our commitment to fostering international academic and research partnerships, said Dr. Mohammed Abdul-Niby, Dean of the College of Engineering at AU. "This partnership represents a transformative step for both institutions, enhancing our research capabilities and providing unparalleled opportunities for our students and faculty.” He added, “This MoU symbolizes a shared vision of innovation and excellence in higher education, particularly in the fields of artificial intelligence and sustainable construction methods. Our collaboration with ISU not only broadens the research horizons for both institutions but also creates a vibrant, cross-continental educational platform for our faculty and students”.

“This important agreement with ISU reinforces our shared focus on both research-based, and technological education,” said Dr. Salem Al-Naemi, President of UDST. “It will strengthen our cooperation in joint program creation, academic exchanges and research publication, and it enables us to offer our students and staff many more interesting possibilities. More than anything, it demonstrates UDST’s commitment to providing as broad an experience as possible in terms of educational opportunities.”

In addition to collaborating on research projects, ISU plans to facilitate faculty exchanges with the two international institutions and work on other shared academic efforts. 

The genesis for the MoUs was while Mustafa Mashal, associate professor of civil and environmental engineering at Idaho State University and associate director for the Center for Advanced Energy Studies (CAES) at ISU, was serving as a Fulbright U.S. Scholar in Qatar. During his time, Mashal visited AU and UDST and spoke with their leadership and fellow faculty about ways the universities could collaborate. From there, leaders worked out the nonbinding MoUs with the support of the U.S. Embassy Doha Public Affairs Section.

"I would like to see more joint research proposals, quality peer-reviewed publications, and other scholarly/training activities as a result of the MoUs,” Mashal said. “We have an excellent collaborative relationship with our international colleagues and have already started submitting joint research proposals to external agencies."

For more information on Idaho State University, Australian University, and the University of Doha for Science and Technology, visit isu.edu, au.edu.kw, and udst.edu.qa.