Masdar Institute of Science and Technology
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The Masdar Institute of Science and Technology (MIST) is a graduate level, research-oriented university which is focused on alternative energy, sustainability, and the environment. It is located in Masdar City in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates.
MIST is an integral part of the non-profit side of the Masdar Initiative[1] and will be the first institution to occupy Masdar City. Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) is supporting the initial phases of the establishment of the university and is also monitoring the quality of the programs offered by certifying to graduating students that the MIST program quality meets MIT standards.
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[edit] History
The establishment of MIST is part of a resource diversification policy for the Emirate of Abu Dhabi. Abu Dhabi's leadership views research and education in alternative energy as a keystone for the future development of the emirate and have expressed their commitment through the establishment of Masdar Initiative, Masdar City, MIST, and the Zayed Future Energy Prize.[2]
MIST was established in 2007 and is accepting applications for the first round of students that will be admitted for the Fall 2009 semester.
[edit] Campus
The campus, like Masdar City, is designed by architectural firm Foster + Partners[3]. Empasis is placed on flexibility, use of traditional architectural elements and modern materials to provide for an optimized combination of natural lighting and cooling that minimize energy needs both indoors and outdoors.
[edit] Organization
MIST is emphasizing interdisciplinary collaboration and an early decision was made to establish programs rather than departments. The currently existing programs are:
- Mechanical Engineering
- Material Science and Engineering
- Engineering Systems and Management
- Water and Environment
- Information Technology
MIST's first President is Dr. Russel Jones.
[edit] Students
MIST is prepared to accept 100 students in the first year of its operation and is planning to have a steady state population of about 800 students.
Qualified students from around the world are offered a full tuition scholarship, stipend, and living spaces once accepted to any of MIST programs.
[edit] Faculty and Research
MIST will commence teaching with at least 24 faculty members by Fall 2009. They will be conducting research individually and in collaboration with MIT on a variety of topics.
[edit] References
- ^ Masdar Initiative - Masdar Institute
- ^ Opening address of the World Future Energy Summit by H.H. Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi and Deputy Supreme Commander of The U.A.E. Armed Forces. Available at: WFES presentations
- ^ Foster + Partners Masdar City project website