Increasing Jordan's research capacity Scientific research in Jordan is being raised to new heights thanks to fresh collaborations, training and networking initiatives. Energy © Thinkstock The aim of the JORIEW (Improving capacity of Jordanian research in integrated renewable energy and water supply) project was to reinforce the cooperation capacities of Jordanian research centres. This was achieved by promoting closer scientific collaboration with a number of European Research Area (ERA) research centres and universities. Specifically, JORIEW promoted networking, developed training modules and set up joint research activities. The project also focused on developing the Jordanian research strategy for sustainable and renewable energy and water desalination. Establishing the JORIEW scientific network was a significant accomplishment. Network members include universities, research centres, non-governmental organisations and governmental bodies. The network helped to identify the scientific needs and challenges of Jordanian members. Four training sessions were held and training modules on specific topics were conducted at Jordan's Hashemite University. The training modules included topics such as ‘Planning of renewable and sustainable energy’ and ‘Water systems, modelling and optimisation of energy systems’. The project was also concerned with capacity building for the holders of advanced degrees. This included research into the depletion of the Dead Sea, currently falling to an alarming level, due to extraction from the Jordan River. To compensate for this depletion, the Red Sea and Dead Sea canal was proposed, whose high cost could be offset by incorporating renewable energy and water desalination schemes. Such schemes would have a profound and lasting impact on Jordanian society by resolving the depletion of the Dead Sea as well as supplying freshwater. Such work requires highly trained personnel and this is where the contribution of JORIEW through capacity building plays such an important role. The project therefore enabled Jordanian researchers to contribute to the solution of local, regional and global problems and help further social and economic development in the region. In addition, enhanced research capacity will encourage researchers to compete internationally in terms of scientific excellence and increase their incentives to continue to base research activities in Jordan. Keywords Research capacity, renewable energy, water supply, scientific collaboration, water desalination
