UAEREP’s 17th Webinar Convenes Global Researchers to Advance Rain Enhancement Science
The UAE Research Programme for Rain Enhancement Science hosted its latest webinar session, bringing together international experts to discuss innovative approaches to water security and climate resilience through cutting-edge scientific research.
The UAE Research Programme for Rain Enhancement Science (UAEREP) convened the 17th edition of its Rain Enhancement Hub Webinar Series, exploring research opportunities and future directions in addressing the critical challenge of water security. The session, entitled “Bridging Science and Impact: Insights from UAEREP’s 6th Cycle Awardees on the Journey Ahead,” assembled leading researchers from across the globe to share insights from their pioneering work.
The webinar featured presentations from Prof. Linda Zou, Professor of Materials Science and Engineering at Victoria University in Australia, and Dr. Oliver Branch, Senior Scientist at the Institute of Physics and Meteorology at the University of Hohenheim in Germany. The session was moderated by Dr. Deon Terblanche, member of UAEREP’s Strategic Directions Committee. The speakers reflected upon their research experiences and highlighted lessons learnt through the programme’s international engagement activities, including recent roadshows conducted in Australia and Germany.
Dr. Abdulla Al Mandous, President of the World Meteorological Organisation and Chairman of the National Center of Meteorology, emphasised the significance of UAEREP’s work. “Water security remains one of the most pressing challenges facing countries around the world,” Dr. Al Mandous stated. “The UAE continues to invest in advanced scientific research, innovation and international collaboration to support sustainable water resources and strengthen resilience to climate variability.”
Prof. Zou’s research project focuses on the artificial intelligence-assisted development and optimisation of glaciogenic cloud seeding materials. Her work integrates advanced nanotechnology, laboratory experimentation and artificial intelligence to improve the design and performance of cloud seeding materials, whilst enhancing understanding of ice nucleation processes and supporting the development of more efficient rain enhancement technologies.
Dr. Branch presented his project, “Rainfall Enhancement through Modification of Land Cover and Land Form (RAINLAND),” which investigates how land surface modification may influence atmospheric processes and precipitation patterns. The research examines potential applications of landform management, such as sand dune configuration, and landcover strategies, including solar parks, to rainfall enhancement across different climatic environments.
Dr. Ahmad Al Kamali, Director of UAEREP and Acting Head of Cloud Seeding Operations at the National Center of Meteorology, praised the contributions of the speakers. “By bringing together leading researchers and members of the international scientific community, the webinar provides an excellent platform to explore recent advances in rain enhancement science and discuss strategies for addressing growing water security challenges,” Dr. Al Kamali observed.
The session reviewed significant outcomes from UAEREP’s scientific roadshows, highlighting opportunities for expanding international collaboration and engaging new research communities. Speakers discussed initial progress reports from their projects, anticipated research impacts, and the value of advancing innovative solutions through multidisciplinary scientific cooperation.
The webinar concluded with practical guidance for researchers considering applications for UAEREP’s seventh grant cycle, offering insights into proposal development, partnership building and factors contributing to successful submissions. The Rain Enhancement Hub Webinar Series continues to serve as a global platform for fostering knowledge exchange and strengthening international cooperation in addressing water scarcity and climate-related challenges.
Source: WAM