Khalifa University Empowers Women Scientists Through New Mentoring Initiative

A landmark programme to advance women's leadership in research and academia reflects the university's commitment to nurturing scientific excellence and innovation across the Emirates.

Women constitute a vital and flourishing presence within Khalifa University’s academic fabric. Nearly six in ten undergraduate students are women, as are two-fifths of doctoral researchers and a third of the broader research community. This dynamic composition speaks to a deeper institutional culture that recognises talent wherever it emerges, yet also presents an opportunity to elevate women’s visibility, influence and authority within the scientific disciplines.

The university has now formalised this commitment through the launch of KU-MIRA, a comprehensive initiative designed to strengthen women’s scientific and academic leadership across science, health and engineering. The acronym stands for Mentoring & Impact in Research & Academia, encapsulating three interconnected dimensions of scholarly life.

Professor Ebrahim Al Hajri, President of Khalifa University, contextualised the initiative within the broader landscape of national development. “The UAE has made significant investments in education, scientific capability, and the advancement of women, creating opportunities for talent to contribute to national development,” he observed. “KU-MIRA builds on this foundation by supporting women to excel in research and academia, expand their scientific influence, and assume greater leadership roles.”

The programme rests on three pillars. Producing Science aims to strengthen research productivity, academic progression and scientific excellence among women scholars. Amplifying Science seeks to elevate the visibility, recognition and influence of women scientists through dedicated platforms and resources. Sustaining Scientists focuses on mentorship, professional networks and institutional environments that enable enduring scientific careers and leadership pathways.

Practically, KU-MIRA will establish a comprehensive directory of women researchers at Khalifa University, creating a dedicated resource that showcases their expertise, research contributions and areas of specialisation. The initiative will also introduce Women Shaping Science, a platform that highlights the work of women scientists and academics whose research advances knowledge, addresses real-world challenges and contributes to developing future generations of scholars.

Dr. Maryam Khaleel Alhashmi, Associate Professor of Chemical and Petroleum Engineering, has been appointed as Founding Director, overseeing the initiative’s implementation across the university. The programme will adopt a phased approach, introducing activities methodically whilst establishing measures to assess participation, research and teaching outcomes, academic progression and institutional impact. This framework will guide the initiative’s evolution and support sustained progress over time.

The initiative aligns with the university’s role in strengthening the talent and capabilities that drive innovation and economic competitiveness. As Khalifa University has ascended to second place in the QS Arab Region University Rankings 2027, consolidating its position as the UAE’s highest-ranked institution, such programmes reinforce its commitment to excellence across all dimensions of academic life.

What it means for Abu Dhabi

KU-MIRA reflects a sophisticated understanding that advancing the UAE’s knowledge-based economy requires nurturing the full spectrum of talent. By formally supporting women’s progression into research leadership and academic authority, the university strengthens the intellectual foundations upon which innovation and scientific discovery depend. The initiative sends a clear signal that excellence in research knows no boundaries and that institutional support for women’s advancement remains central to Abu Dhabi’s intellectual ambitions.

Beyond the immediate benefits to individual scholars, the programme contributes to the broader national narrative of inclusive excellence. By creating visibility and recognition for women scientists through its researcher directory and Women Shaping Science platform, KU-MIRA ensures that future generations see themselves represented within the highest echelons of scientific endeavour, thereby cultivating a culture in which women’s participation in research and academia becomes increasingly normalised and celebrated.

Source: WAM