Texas A&M University at Qatar wins 23 awards at QNRF forum

Texas A&M University at Qatar (TAMUQ) recently was recognized with 23 awards from the Qatar National Research Fund's (QNRF) National Priorities Research Program (NPRP) at the seventh annual QNRF Research Forum in Doha.

“Our research is contributing new knowledge, which is critical for the foundation of a knowledge-based economy,” Mark Weichold, dean and CEO of TAMUQ, said. “This latest round of awards and recognition from QNRF demonstrates the high quality of research conducted at TAMUQ and the world-class caliber of our faculty and research staff.”

The winning research projects encompass the entire spectrum of TAMUQ's offerings, in several branches of engineering, including electrical, computer, petroleum and mechanical.

Certain professors also were recognized for their work in their respective fields. Tingwen Huang, a professor in TAMUQ's science program was awarded the Best Research Project Award. His project focuses on the optimization and control of neural networks.

Haitham Abu-Rub, professor and chairman of the Electrical and Computer Engineering Program, was recognized as Best Researcher of the Year. His work focuses on renewable energy, electronics and their power, AC drives and smart-grid technology. A solar-conversion grant request was recognized by the NPRP in 2013 as being a strong proposal.

The university's research administration also was recognized with the Best Research Office award.