The U.S. National Academies have partnered with the Kuwait Institute for Scientific Research (KISR) over the last two years to develop an Arab-American Frontiers of Science, Engineering, and Medicine program. The program envisions a series of symposia over the next five years to bring together young scientists, engineers, and medical professionals from the 22 countries of the Arab League and the United States to discuss exciting advances in their fields and topics that address challenges to the development of the region. It aims to provide a format for researchers under the age of 45 that encourages collective and one-on-one discussions among participants. The program thus aims to: enhance the scientific dialogue and exchange among young researchers in Arab countries and the United States, including the Arab science diaspora, through the initial meeting and the consequent development of an alumni network; encourage and strengthen scientific collaboration and the transfer of techniques and approaches across disciplines within and beyond the region; and empower young scientists, engineers, and medical professionals.

KISR will host the first Frontiers symposium from October 17 to 19, 2011. While this symposium will focus on the topics of water, renewable energy, agriculture, and diabetes.