Power up: UET invites independent energy researchers

Grants of up to $30,000 available for interested candidates

PESHAWAR: To conduct independent research on day-to-day challenges faced by the country in the energy sector, the US-Pakistan Centre for Advanced Studies in Energy (USPCAS-E) has invited proposals from interested engineers.

The USPCAS-E programme at the University of Engineering and Technology (UET) Peshawar is designed to focus on applied research relevant to Pakistan’s energy needs and serve as a bridge between the government and industries, and academia to undertake sustainable policy formulation.

Talking to The Express Tribune, USPCAS-E Director Najeebullah said the basic aim was to jumpstart training and innovation for sustainable energy in Pakistan. He said the centre is partnered with Arizona State University and National University of Science and Technology (NUST).

He said interested candidates can apply for research in power, energy policy, solar photovoltaic, thermal energy and energy materials. Najeebullah said each research grant shall not exceed $30,000. Applicants should enter projects focused on energy materials and devices, including fuel cells, batteries, solar cells, wind energy and super capacitors.

According to Najeebullah, each proposal would go through a blind review by three individuals and would be based on merit and technical content. He said the USPCAS-E research committee will finalise the selection and recommend the proposals to the chairman of the research and policy committee for final approval.

The USPCAS-E director said December 4 was the last date and candidates could apply via email.

Eligibility

Najeebullah also encouraged researchers of other universities, especially women, to apply for this grant. He said researchers from the Federally Administered Tribal Areas should take full advantage of the opportunity as it would not only assist them financially, but also boost their experience in relevant fields.

The director said the project would last a maximum 12 months and applicants should be fulltime faculty members at a Higher Education Commission-recognised university. The applicants should have an advanced academic degree and relevant research experience.

Published in The Express Tribune, November 26^th,  2015.