Our History
The Environmental Science Center (ESC) at Qatar University has a distinguished track record of conducting fundamental and applied research, providing consultancy services, and contributing to developing national capabilities since its establishment. Established as the Scientific and Applied Research Center (SARC) by Emiri Decree 13/1980. In 2005, it underwent restructuring and a name change to the Environmental Studies Center, specifically emphasizing environmentally sustainable development. In 2015, the center's name was changed to the Environmental Science Center to represent its goals focused on research more accurately.
After 2017, the ESC underwent a transformation, adopting a new mission and restructuring. It organized its research activities into multiple clusters. Every cluster is headed by a Science Leader and comprises highly ranked, Qatari and international scholars, research assistants, and lab technicians. The ESC's research strategy is aligned with Qatar's 2030 National Vision, which prioritizes the balanced management of the environment, economic growth, and social development.
Key Research Disciplines
The Environmental Science Center (ESC) at Qatar University is dedicated to conducting innovative research across various disciplines to address contemporary and historical environmental challenges. This interdisciplinary research is conducted by collaborative research teams, supported by state-of-the-art facilities, including ten on-campus laboratories, four labs at the Aquatic Fisheries Research Center, and the research vessel RV Janan. Our research is enabling us to make significant contributions to environmental science and sustainability. The main present research disciplines include:
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Marine and Terrestrial Biology and Ecology: Study the interactions between organisms and their environments, both in marine and terrestrial settings, to understand biodiversity and ecosystem dynamics.
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Atmospheric and Earth Sciences: This research focuses on studying atmospheric processes, weather patterns, and geological phenomena to enhance our comprehension of the Earth's physical systems.
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Chemical and Physical Oceanography: Monitoring marine health and contributing to the sustainable management of marine resources by investigating the chemical composition and physical properties of the ocean.
Janan: A Vessel of Scientific Exploration
Janan, a distinguished gift from HH the Emir Sheikh Tamim Bin Hamad Al Thani, is equipped with state-of-the-art scientific and research facilities to promote research in different marine settings and weather conditions. This vessel has marked a new era of scientific research by attracting prominent scholars from Qatar and around the world to study Qatari marine and territorial waters. Additionally, Janan serves as a training station for students and future scientists, offering advanced laboratories and modern equipment to enhance their research skills and knowledge.
Community Outreach and Services
The Environmental Science Center collaborates closely with the wider community on issues related to environmental awareness and sustainability. We strive to make our assets and facilities accessible to governmental authorities, key industry players, and the community. Our goal is to bridge the gap between research and students and between research and industry, fostering a collaborative environment that drives innovation and practical solutions.