Abu Dhabi-based Masdar Institute of Science and Technology began its recruitment drive in the US with a presentation to Boston-area students at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT).

Masdar Institute, a graduate-level institution dedicated to renewable energy and clean technology research, was established with the advice and assistance of MIT. It focuses its academic and research agenda on renewable energy and sustainable technologies and offers full scholarships to all successful admitted students.

'Masdar Institute is dedicated to developing students from the UAE and abroad in the renewable energy and sustainability fields,' said Dr Lamya N. Fawwaz, executive director of public affairs, Masdar Institute.

'The development of human capacity is paramount to solving pressing global sustainability issues and climate change,' she noted.

During the presentation at MIT, the Masdar Institute also discussed its research facilities set in a unique sustainable campus which is a test bed for innovative technologies.

Masdar Institute currently offers eight Master's programs including the recently announced Chemical Engineering program which will be offered September 2011, as well as an interdisciplinary Ph.D.

Steven Meyers, a second year student, said: 'It is a privilege for me to be able to study at the Masdar Institute, where I can bring real benefit to the UAE and beyond through my research in mechanical engineering.'

'It is a huge incentive for all the students knowing that the work we do is helping to build a better future,' he added.

Duane Boning, MIT Professor and director of the MIT Abu Dhabi Program said, ''MIT is very excited about this important collaboration with Masdar Institute.'

'We look forward to working together to further advance studies in the strategic and highly important renewable energy and sustainability sectors. Masdar Institute began its recruitment tour in the US with a visit to the UAE Embassy in Washington DC.

As the Institute targets the next generation of students interested in the renewable energy and sustainability sectors, it is visiting several elite universities over the course of the week, including Harvard University, Princeton University and Yale University.-TradeArabia News Service