Qatar Environment and Energy Research Institute (QEERI), a research and development entity under Qatar Foundation for Education, Science and Community Development (QF), has signed a strategic agreement with Swiss-based Ecole Polytechnique Federale De Lausanne (EPFL) that will allow QEERI scientists to work closely with other world-leading scientists in addressing key research issues related to Qatar's energy security grand challenge.

"We are thrilled about this strategic collaboration with EPFL as it will enable the exchange of visitors and training for QEERI staff members regarding advanced tools and equipment. The agreement will also provide QEERI access to state-of-the-art laboratories until our own facilities are completed," QEERI Executive Director Mohammad Khaleel said.

As a key research and development entity of QF, QEERI supports QF's mission to build Qatar's innovation and research capacity and address critical national priorities concerning energy. It does this by establishing the necessary facilities towards sustainable development and management of energy and natural resources that benefit Qatar and the rest of the world. The collaboration with EPFL in coordinating research efforts is a vital element of its work.

QEERI and EPFL's joint research activities will specifically focus on development, fabrication and testing for Photovoltaics solar cell traditional and innovative materials. Research collaboration also includes development of models and tools that will enable the integration of solar power into the grid, along with a study of how people's practices and demand on buildings' energy affect the grid.