Fraunhofer, Europe’s largest application-oriented research organisation, has signed an agreement with Sharjah Research, Technology and Innovation Park (SRTI Park) to set up its research and development centre at the Science Park.

Launch of the Research and Development Centre for Fraunhofer will enable university researchers and organisations from the public and private sectors to utilise of the facility.

It will also provide technical consulting and expertise for the Science Park and companies in the UAE to initiate research and development projects in selected fields.

HE Hussain Al Mahmoudi, CEO of SRTI Park said: “We are proud to partner with a world-class institution such as Fraunhofer, and this is a demonstration of Sharjah’s global standing, represented by the SRTI Park and its pivotal role in supporting and developing the region’s innovation ecosystem.”

The agreement was signed by HE Al Mahmoudi and a number of senior officials and researchers representing various specialised research institutes from Fraunhofer.

The agreement is also said to include efforts to promote cooperation and exchange of experts and services between the two entities for the purpose of mutual benefits.

Moreover, a global team of scientists and researchers from Fraunhofer’s HQ held a series of meetings at the Science Park in topics related to water technology, water desalination, energy and sustainability. The meeting was attended by UAE’s leading companies and government institutions and was used as a platform to discuss opportunities and joint technological research projects.