Graphene Flagship and Khalifa University’s RIC2D co-host first UAE - EU Symposium on graphene and 2D materials

To innovate effectively in the fields of graphene and 2D materials research, collaboration is often of key importance. With this in mind, in 2023, the Graphene Flagship is expanding its international network of collaborators and building new connections in the United Arab Emirates (UAE).

In mid-May, in partnership with the Graphene Flagship, the UAE’s Research and Innovation Center for Graphene and 2D Materials (RIC2D), at Khalifa University, hosted the first ever United Arab Emirates - EU Graphene Flagship Symposium on graphene and 2D materials. This landmark event, which took place over 15 and 16 May, enabled academic researchers and industry leaders based in the UAE and the EU to present ongoing research activities on both sides and discuss possible international collaborations.

The event attracted more than 140 attendees interested in graphene and its applications. It also provided the opportunity for researchers and industry stakeholders in the UAE and Europe to identify topics of common interest, share research results with promising application potential, and explore the possible incubation of joint ventures.

The EU’s Graphene Flagship delegation comprised of key leaders in research, materials production, and applications of graphene-related materials (GRM), and included representatives from Graphene Flagship startups.

Both symposium chairs, Dr. Hassan Arafat of RIC2D and Dr. Kari Hjelt of the Graphene Flagship, spoke highly of the symposium and its impact.

Dr. Arafat emphasised the UAE’s growing global recognition in scientific developments in various fields, including advanced materials, and attraction of innovators from across the world.

“This event reinforces the UAE’s position as a global centre for continued scientific advancements and innovations.” said Dr. Arafat.

“Research centers like RIC2D are emerging as new powerhouses for research into graphene and 2D materials – meaning we are enthusiastic about engaging further with our counterparts in research and industry, such as those in the Graphene Flagship.”

Dr. Hjelt spoke warmly about the symposium and highlighted the value of developing new collaborations.

“The Graphene Flagship delegation saw impressive presentations at the UAE - EU symposium – it is clear that we have much to gain from working with researchers based in the UAE and the Middle East,” said Dr. Hjelt.

“Khalifa University and RIC2D in particular are emerging as a hub for research into the science and applications of advanced materials. Building new partnerships with RIC2D and UAE industry will open up exciting new possibilities for graphene researchers in Europe and beyond.”

As the Graphene Flagship continues to focus increasingly on the applications of graphene and 2D materials, hearing from UAE-based innovators from across academia and industry was of great benefit to project delegates. Further collaboration in this field between the UAE and the EU looks promising.