AUS Expands Academic Horizon With New Research Centers And Data Science Program

Chaired by Sheikha Bodour bint Sultan Al Qasimi, President and Chairperson of the Board of Trustees of American University of Sharjah (AUS), the AUS Board of Trustees approved the establishment of three new research centres, the launch of a Bachelor of Science in Data Science (BSDS) Programme, and several high-level appointments at its June 2024 meeting.

Following the Board’s decisions, Sheikha Bodour Al Qasimi stated: "Our vision for AUS is one of nonstop evolution and improvement as a globally renowned learning and research institution. The addition of three further research centres represents an important enlargement of our overall proposition as we interrogate the forces that shape our world and confront the big questions facing humanity and our planet. We are fortunate to have a Board of Trustees that shares that vision and supports it through decisions that propel AUS forward and increase our appeal as a leading educational and research institution with global reputation for academic and research excellence."

The board approved the establishment of the Centre for Arab Studies and Islamic Civilisations (CASIC); Advanced Biosciences and Bioengineering Research Center (ABSBERC); and Artificial Intelligence, Smart Infrastructure and Robotics Research Center (AISIRC). These new centres follow the launch of three advanced research centres in May, each dedicated to addressing critical challenges in their respective fields.

CASIC will focus on meeting the demand for comprehensive insights into the intertwined histories, cultures, arts, societies, economies, and current dynamics of the Arab and Islamic worlds. It will leverage an established body of over 70 research-active faculty members.

ABSBERC will pioneer innovative and interdisciplinary biosciences and bioengineering research for global impact while addressing regional needs. This centre is bolstered by a robust cohort of research-active faculty and backed by established doctoral and master’s programmes, laboratories, and research facilities.

AISIRC aims to emerge as a premier research hub for artificial intelligence, smart infrastructure, robotics, and technological ecosystems. It will tackle global, regional, and UAE-specific challenges, facilitated by a strong cohort of research-active faculty and supported by existing doctoral and master’s programmes, laboratories, and research facilities.

Bachelor of Science in Data Science Programme

Members of the Board of Trustees endorsed the launch of a Bachelor of Science in Data Science (BSDS) Programme. The proposed four-year programme aligns with CAA standards. It capitalizes on the robust departments of mathematics, statistics, computer science, information systems, and business analytics at AUS. The new programme is expected to launch in the 2026–2027 Academic Year.

High-Level Appointments

The Board of Trustees confirmed several high-level appointments. Dr. Steven Griffiths was appointed as Vice-Chancellor for Research at AUS. Dr. Mohamed El Tarhuni was named Interim Vice-Chancellor for Academic Affairs and Provost. Additionally, Ali Alsuwaidi was assigned as Acting Vice-Chancellor for Finance and Administration, while Shaima Bin Taliah was appointed Acting Vice-Chancellor for Student Experience.

Budget Approvals

During the meeting, the Board approved the university’s general operating budget, research and graduate studies budget, and capital projects budget for the 2024–2025 Academic Year.

Emiratisation Strategy

The Board also reviewed the university’s Emiratisation Strategy. They explored partnerships with several federal programs to enhance the competitiveness of Emirati human resources.

With inputs from WAM