Qatar Foundation advises aspiring young Qatari scientists and researchers

A meeting was held last week at Qatar Foundation for Education, Science and Community Development (QF) to showcase the ‘Qatar Science Leadership Program (QSLP)’. Now accepting applications, all recent Qatari graduates at the session, and those striving to lead the nation’s future in scientific research, were encouraged to apply.

“The goal of this information session was to make the point to young, talented Qataris that now is the time to jump start their careers. There is no doubt that the Qatar Science Leadership Program will give them the strong foundation they need for success in their future jobs in Qatar,” said Dr Ayman Bassil, Head of Research Training & Development at QF’s Research Division, who led the session. 

“More importantly, by working alongside world-class, skilled scientists and researchers while in the program, they will receive the necessary training to become the nation’s future leaders in their chosen fields,” he continued.

To maintain Qatar’s position as a forerunner in ground-breaking research, QSLP aims to mould young Qataris into top scientists and researchers. And, if accepted into the program, students have the opportunity to pursue their studies in the areas of science and research at elite universities in the United Kingdom and the United States. 

“Qatar Foundation is responding to the need for a highly qualified, research-leading workforce, and I hope that this unique gathering of faculty and recent Qatar Science Leadership Program participants will encourage young Qatari students to step forward and apply,” explained Dr Dirar Khoury, Acting Executive Director of QF’s Research Division. 

Since its beginnings, QSLP has not only evolved into a unique human capacity building program for QF, but for Qatar at large. The program represents a rare opportunity for students to be a part of the rising science revolution and help to build Qatar’s future knowledge economy. Those who have taken part in the initiative are already reaping the benefits.

“I joined this program because both Qatar Foundation and Qatar are really focusing on science. I really want to encourage young Qataris to join a career path that the country is investing in,” said Abeer Al-Hammadi, a QSLP graduate and current QF employee working in its Research Division.

And Abeer’s message is clearly being heeded by Qatar’s next generation of budding scientists and researchers. 

“I hope that I get a sponsorship program for QSLP, but that means I need to work hard. I think it could be a great opportunity, especially to get experience in universities abroad, that’s what mainly impresses me and encourages me to apply,” said Omayma Al Saei, a student in her third year of Biomedical Sciences at Qatar University, who was present at the session.