Join the 3rd U.S.-Africa Frontiers of Science, Engineering, and Medicine Symposium in Kigali, February 2025

The U.S. National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine is excited to announce the 3rd U.S.-Africa Frontiers of Science, Engineering, and Medicine Symposium. This symposium, organized in partnership with and hosted by the Republic of Rwanda, will take place from February 18-20, 2025, in Kigali, Rwanda. Applications are now open for scientists, engineers, and medical professionals from the United States and African Union member countries to apply online by July 7, 2024, at 11:59 PM ET (Washington D.C. time).

Symposium Overview

The U.S.-Africa Frontiers program aims to bring together outstanding early to mid-career scientists, engineers, and medical professionals—within 15 years of their most recent degree—from the United States and African Union member countries. This series of symposia provides a platform for participants to discuss exciting advances and opportunities in their fields, fostering scientific exchange and dialogue. The program also seeks to enhance research collaboration within and beyond the region by facilitating interactions among participants with diverse backgrounds and research interests.

Goals and Objectives

One of the main objectives of this symposium is to advance the understanding of cutting-edge science and technology trends in the U.S. and Africa, fostering dialogue and collaborations across disciplines. The multidisciplinary nature of the event is designed to bridge various fields, promoting a holistic approach to research and innovation.

Sessions and Topics

The upcoming symposium will feature five plenary sessions, each led by two co-chairs, addressing the following topics:

1. New Solutions for Decarbonization: Exploring innovative approaches to reduce carbon emissions and combat climate change.
2. Biotechnology: Discussing advancements in biotechnology and their applications in medicine, agriculture, and industry.
3. Precision Agriculture: Highlighting the latest techniques and technologies in agriculture to increase efficiency and sustainability.
4. Advances in Space Research: Examining recent developments in space exploration and research.
5. Smart and Connected Cities: Investigating the integration of technology in urban planning to create smarter and more connected urban environments.

Eligibility Criteria: To qualify for the U.S.-Africa Frontiers program, applicants must meet the following criteria:

• Be an emerging leader in science, engineering, or medicine, with a terminal degree and active involvement in research or professional work in industry, academia, public service, non-profit, or other sectors.
• Have completed their highest degree within the past 15 years, typically within 10-12 years, holding a position equivalent to assistant/associate professor or similar in non-academic settings.
• Possess professional proficiency in English.
• Be employed in the U.S. or one of the African Union member countries, with citizenship of the country of residence not required.
• Demonstrate significant accomplishments in their field, contributing to advancing science, engineering, or medical research.
• Show interest in interdisciplinary developments and the ability to relate advances in other fields to their own work.
• Conduct research with strong potential for developmental impact in the U.S. and/or Africa, participating in scientific projects and promoting science and technology within society.

Application and Participation

Selected participants will have the opportunity to present their research during poster sessions. Travel expenses for selected participants will be covered. More details on the symposium, organization, and program can be found on the symposium webpage.

Application Deadline: July 7, 2024, at 11:59 PM ET

For more information on the U.S.-Africa Frontiers Program, please visit the program website Third U.S.-Africa Frontiers of Science, Engineering, and Medicine Symposium | National Academies

Or contact Rose Parker at (202) 334-2709 or via email at USAfricaSTEM@nas.edu.

Support and Sponsorship

This symposium is supported by the Republic of Rwanda, the Rutter Foundation, and Pennsylvania State University. The U.S.-Africa Frontiers of Science, Engineering, and Medicine program builds on the success of the NAS’s Kavli Frontiers of Science Program and the NAE’s Frontiers of Engineering, initiating a series of symposia to enhance scientific capacities in participating African countries.

By drawing from the scientific, engineering, and medical resources in Africa, each symposium is designed to discuss cutting-edge research and address critical issues relevant to the region, ultimately aiming to build capacities and foster collaboration.

Contact Information:

• Responsible Staff Officers: Dalal Najib
• Additional Project Staff: Rose Parker, Daniel Placht, Arianne Gandy

Join us in Kigali for the Third U.S.-Africa Frontiers of Science, Engineering, and Medicine Symposium, a unique opportunity to engage with leading minds from the United States and African Union member countries. This event promises to foster interdisciplinary collaboration and showcase groundbreaking advancements across various fields. Don’t miss your chance to be part of this transformative experience. Apply by July 7, 2024, and contribute to shaping the future of science, engineering, and medicine. For more information and to submit your application, visit the symposium webpage or contact Rose Parker at USAfricaSTEM@nas.edu. We look forward to seeing you in Kigali!