Shows
NYUAD InstituteIbrahim Al Koni and the World of the Tuareg (Arabic)This talk features a conversation with Ibrahim al-Koni, a prominent contemporary author in Arabic literature. Raised as a Tuareg in the Libyan desert, al-Koni's storytelling is informed by his educational background and extensive travels. His extensive body of work, encompassing over a hundred books, examines the history of the Mediterranean region and the desert. The discussion will focus on al-Koni's unique portrayal of the desert landscape and its cultural and historical significance.
Speaker
Ibrahim al-Koni, Libyan-Swiss Author, Winner of the 2008 Sheikh Zayed Award for Literature, and 2023 Sharjah Book Fair Cultural Personality of the Year
In conversation with
Maurice Pomerantz, Executive...
2025-07-011h 26
NYUAD InstituteCybersecurity & Ethics: Navigating Digital DangersExplore the intersection of cybersecurity, technology ethics, and disinformation with leading experts. This panel examines the human-centered aspects of cybertechnology, the global threats posed by state actors, and the ethical dilemmas at the forefront of our digital age. Join us for a thought-provoking discussion that uncovers the challenges and solutions in protecting our digital future.
Speakers
James Lewis, Senior Vice President, Pritzker Chair, and Director of the Strategic Technologies Program at the Center for Strategic and International Studies (CSIS)
Mayra Ruiz-McPherson, Cyber/Media Psychologist, Qualitative Futurist, Cognitive/Behavioral Scientist, Researcher & Ethicist
In conversation with
Muhammet Bas, Associate Professor of Political...
2025-06-161h 14
NYUAD InstituteDecoding Hindustani Music: Art and ScienceThis talk explores the profound artistry and scientific intricacies of Indian art music, with a focus on the Hindustani repertoire. Dr. Kaustuv Kanti Ganguli delves into the psychoacoustic and emotional dimensions of ragas, illustrating how pitch, timbre, and rhythm evoke deep responses. Bridging tradition with technology, he demonstrates the role of objective thinking in understanding melodic nuances and improvisation techniques.
Speaker
Kaustuv Kanti Ganguli, Associate Professor of Computing, Zayed University; Visiting Scholar, NYUAD
2025-05-231h 03
NYUAD InstituteClimate Justice and the Constitution: Reflections from the Global SouthThe Climate Crisis has created novel challenges for public policy in the Global South. Developing nations need to discover ways of continuing to grow without undermining the goals of the Paris Agreement, transitioning to green energy at the same time as addressing deep problems of economic growth and social inequality. They also need to mitigate some of the effects of extreme weather events, such as floods or forest fires. In this panel discussion four experienced judges will reflect on the role of the law on this process. Can a substantive conception of environmental rights make a difference? Does the constitution...
2025-05-161h 19
NYUAD InstituteSoviet Power and the Politics of the EastThis talk examines Soviet power through a transregional and global lens, focusing on its cultural and political exchanges with the Middle East. Drawing from a recently published book, The Eastern International: Arabs, Central Asians, and Jews in the Soviet Union's Anticolonial Empire, it traces how the Soviet concept of the “East” shaped both domestic policy and international influence, from the early Bolshevik era to Putin’s Russia. Through the stories of Soviet Jews, Central Asians, and Arab Marxists, it uncovers a fascinating web of cultural and political exchanges that blurred the lines between empire and anti-colonialism.
Speaker
Masha Kirasirova, Author, "The Ea...
2025-05-0151 min
NYUAD InstituteEnvironmental Toxins and Everyday LifeThis talk explores the role of environmental toxins in shaping health and well-being, examining their presence in everyday life and their impact on fertility, birth weight, and children’s academic and developmental outcomes. The discussion highlights the importance of collecting baseline data on environmental toxins in Abu Dhabi to inform policies and interventions that improve health and promote sustainability. Attendees will also learn about opportunities to support and participate in local research efforts, contributing to impactful studies that guide positive change for the community.
Speakers
Kirsten Edepli, Professor of Biology, NYUAD
Dr. Shaima Lari, Consultant Physician, Shiekh Shakhbot Medical City
Dr...
2025-04-141h 12
NYUAD InstituteCan Justice Be Achieved in the Devastation of Modern Wars?Have the great ambitions for the role of international criminal justice in the world been misplaced? Can international courts deliver meaningful justice for the victims of extreme crimes in conflict? This conversation will explore the challenges of seeking accountability for war time atrocities with Erik Møse, one the pioneering figures of international criminal justice. His perspectives will draw from decades of experience, having served as the President of the International Criminal Tribunal for Rwanda and presided over the trials of the leading figures of the 1994 Rwandan genocide, where an estimated 800,000 individuals were killed within 100 days. In his current role a...
2025-04-1458 min
NYUAD InstituteCricket in Pakistan: Nation, Identity, and PoliticsAli Khan, author of Cricket in Pakistan: Nation, Identity, and Politics, examines the profound connection between cricket and Pakistan's socio-political landscape. The talk explores how the sport has shaped national identity, influenced political narratives, and served as a cultural touchstone, reflecting the broader dynamics of society and politics in the region.
Speaker
Ali Khan, Professor of Anthropology, LUMS and Author of Cricket in Pakistan: Nation, Identity, and Politics (Oxford University Press, 2022)
In conversation with
Saba Khan, Instructor of Social Science, NYUAD
2025-04-1453 min
NYUAD InstituteStructured Luck: Downstream Effects of the U.S. Diversity Visa ProgramHow do immigration policies from economically advantaged countries affect people in less advantaged countries and the immigrants who come in with these policies? "Structured Luck" takes us on a transnational journey to explore the societal, personal, and political implications of the US Diversity Immigrant Visa Program, a US immigration policy that is an annual economic and cultural event in many economically disadvantaged countries. It illuminates the trauma, resilience, determination, and mobility of immigrants who come to the U.S. through the DV program and closes with a call for the U.S. and other economically advantaged countries to develop policies...
2025-02-2451 min
NYUAD InstituteDe/Colonial BotanyCan we reimagine the complex relationships among nature, culture, and homeland through the lens of a decolonial botany? In this conversation, Robert Zhao Renhui and Tuấn Mami explore plants as contemporary symbols of resilience and adaptation that can shape our understanding of multispecies ecosystems and migrating communities and enrich our collective existence. In a world grappling with the climate crisis, the artists invite the audience to rethink exclusionary binaries such as invasive vs native species and to see plants as matters of emotion, memory, history, and politics.
Speakers
Tuấn Mami, Artist; Co-founder, Nhà Sàn Collective
Robert Zhao Renhui...
2025-02-211h 09
NYUAD InstituteResonating Worlds: Art, Science, and the Soundscapes of DiscoveryBy introducing artists to science and research institutions, sci-art collaborations are establishing new perspectives and interdisciplinary approaches, and artistic work is contributing to scientific inquiry. In this talk, musician and sound artist Sam Nester introduces his work and how it has led to collaborative projects with institutions in the USA, Europe, and the UAE. From working alongside scientists at the European Joint Research Centre and policy officers of the Directorate General for Environment, to collaborating with members of the Center for Genomics & Systems Biology at NYU Abu Dhabi as the inaugural artist-in-residence.
Speaker
Sam Nester, Artist-in-Residence, Center for Genomics & Systems...
2025-02-2147 min
NYUAD InstituteResilient Futures: Innovating Water and Environmental SecurityThis talk will showcase how innovative solutions recognized by the Prize are successfully bridging economic growth, social equity, and environmental sustainability. The speakers will explore how AI and cutting-edge technology in environmental sustainability and water security empower vulnerable communities to build resilience and self-sufficiency. Highlighting the work of Prize finalists, the discussion will demonstrate practical solutions in water security, their role in driving climate adaptation, strengthening communities, and fostering sustainable progress, inspiring students to think globally and act locally through sustainable projects.
Speakers
Rhett Butler, CEO, SkyJuice Foundation
Jane Glavan, Co-founder, Distant Imagery
Walter J.R. Buydens, CEO, Turbulent
Moderated...
2025-02-1847 min
NYUAD InstituteRethinking AntibioticsThe specter of widespread drug-resistant bacterial infections is a looming public health crisis and especially pronounced for so-called “Gram-negative” pathogens. In addition, all approved antibiotics also kill the “good” bacteria in our gut, resulting in many deleterious effects on human health. This lecture will describe this problem and what is being done to solve it. Recent advances in fundamental science that has led to the discovery of novel antibiotics, and the development of antibiotics effective against Gram-negative infections that also spare the gut microbiome will be discussed.
Speaker
Paul J. Hergenrother, Kenneth L. Rinehart Jr. Endowed Chair in Natural Products Chemistr...
2025-01-2051 min
NYUAD InstituteStructured Luck: How U.S. Immigration Policy Affects ImmigrantsThis talk explores the impact of immigration policies from economically advantaged countries on both the people in less advantaged nations, particularly in the Global South, and the immigrants who enter under these policies. The speaker will take us on a transnational journey, delving into the societal, personal, and political implications of the U.S. Diversity Immigrant Visa Program. Highlighting the trauma, resilience, determination, and mobility of those who immigrate to the U.S. through the DV program, the talk will conclude with a call for economically advantaged countries to adopt policies that better integrate immigrants into their societies.
Speaker
Onoso...
2025-01-2051 min
NYUAD InstituteGlobalization and Multinational Investment in an Institutionally Risky WorldDean Salomon will introduce the principal risks that multinational corporations (MNCs) face in the global marketplace. He will discuss the critical institutional investment challenges that underpin globalization and the tools that multinational investors can use to better navigate globalization's risks.
Speaker
Robert Salomon, Dean of Stern, NYUAD
In collaboration with
Stern at NYUAD
2025-01-2053 minNYUAD InstituteIbrahim Al Koni and the World of the Tuareg (English)This talk features a conversation with Ibrahim al-Koni, a prominent contemporary author in Arabic literature. Raised as a Tuareg in the Libyan desert, al-Koni's storytelling is informed by his educational background and extensive travels. His extensive body of work, encompassing over a hundred books, examines the history of the Mediterranean region and the desert. The discussion will focus on al-Koni's unique portrayal of the desert landscape and its cultural and historical significance.
Speaker
Ibrahim al-Koni, Libyan-Swiss Author, Winner of the 2008 Sheikh Zayed Award for Literature, and 2023 Sharjah Book Fair Cultural Personality of the Year
In conversation with
Maurice Pomerantz, Executive...
2024-11-221h 26
NYUAD InstituteGlobal Shifts: U.S. Elections and the Future of PowerAs the U.S. elections draw near, this panel will examine how leadership changes could influence global power structures, with a particular focus on the Middle East. The discussion will explore what impacts leadership changes might have on the broader geopolitical landscape and consider possible ripple effects in critical regions of the world as the US recalibrates its global strategies.
Speakers
David McCourt, Visiting Associate Professor of Social Research and Public Policy, NYUAD
Jarrett Blanc, Former Energy and National Security Advisor to the Secretary of Energy, Former Deputy Special Envoy for Iran, and Former Acting Special Representative for Afghanistan and...
2024-11-1157 min
NYUAD InstituteExperiencing Maqam: An Introduction to Arabic MusicThis presentation explores the Arabic Maqam system of melodic modes, a pillar of traditional Arabic music, focusing on its distinctive structures and sounds. Using examples and guided listening exercises, the session offers a clear and engaging starting point for understanding Arabic music's depth and complexity. By complementing the deep dive into Maqam with insights into how it shapes specific musical traditions, the presentation provides a launchpad for further individual exploration of Arabic music.
Speaker
Layth Sidiq, Artistic Director of the New York Arabic Orchestra; Artist in Residence, NYUAD
In conversation with
Andrew Eisenberg, Associate Professor of Music, NYUAD; Global Network...
2024-10-251h 06
NYUAD InstituteThe Scary but Still Fixable Threat of Climate ChangeThis talk focuses on the escalating issue of carbon emissions, which exceed levels year after year. The rising CO2 concentration exacerbates various climatic challenges, affecting human well-being and ecosystems, particularly for the nearly one billion people facing hunger daily. The speaker will discuss global analyses of climate change's impact on marine and terrestrial ecosystems, highlighting how these changes threaten vital sources of income, food, and jobs for many. The talk also underscores the importance of public engagement in proactive solutions to this crisis.
Speakers
Asryelle Mora Rollo, Student
Camilo Mora, Professor, Department of Geography and Environment, University of Hawai`i
...
2024-10-091h 01
NYUAD InstituteMedia Dynamics: Identity, Challenges, and Future VisionThe panel explores the evolving identity of contemporary media and its pivotal role in shaping national identity; focusing on the historic contributions of women in journalism and the influence of editorial control on the intellectual landscape. Discussions will address the challenges and barriers to innovation, particularly those related to institutional and societal norms. Speakers will explore the future trajectory of media, emphasizing the role of academic and professional environments in media evolution. The panel aims to shed light on how media shapes and reflects a nation’s voice, culture, and future.
Speakers
Amer bin Jassas, Broadcaster and Interviewer
Yusra Adel, Me...
2024-06-101h 00
NYUAD InstituteOn the Path to Net Zero: Critical Minerals, the Climate Crisis, and the Tech ImperiumEven while the climate crisis deepens, the decarbonization of the global economy and the fourth industrial revolution have been subsumed by geopolitics that remain anchored in realist power struggles, now revolving around Sino-American hyper-competition. Access to indispensable minerals for a net zero future has become securitized undermining ties of global interdependence. The panel of interdisciplinary scholars, institutional stakeholders, and industry experts provides insight into this latest manifestation of resource competition and discusses their contributions to the book Critical Minerals, the Climate Crisis, and the Tech Imperium (Springer Nature, 2023).
Panel Members
Constantine Karayannopoulos, Former CEO, Neo Performance Materials
Kristin Vekasi, Associate...
2024-06-041h 30
NYUAD InstituteTheatre Work: Reimagining the Labor of Theatrical ProductionThere is a common sentiment that working in the arts is exceptional. It’s not just a workplace, it’s a passion. But loving it doesn’t change the fact that it’s a job. In Theatre Work: Reimagining the Labor of Theatrical Production, Brídín Clements Cotton and Natalie Robin investigate the question of artmaking, specifically theatrical production, as work. When the art is the work, how do employers navigate the balance between creative freedom and consistent personnel processes that promote accessibility, equity, and sustainability? Do theatrical production operations value the worker? Celebrating the release of the book, this event...
2024-05-2942 min
NYUAD InstituteHaptic Feedback for Local Anesthesia TrainingThis talk presents the design and development of a custom 3D printed haptic syringe interface aimed to augment a virtual reality local anesthesia simulation (VRLA) with realistic tactile feedback. The VRLA previously used an Oculus Quest 2 head mounted device (HMD) with out of the box hand controllers to immerse students in the simulation and complete the necessary tasks. One controller (with the dominant hand) was used to perform a local anesthesia injection with a virtual hand that held a virtual syringe. This was subsequently replaced with a custom 3D printed haptic syringe to simulate physical interactions between the syringe and...
2024-05-2435 min
NYUAD InstituteA Natural History of the United Arab EmiratesOften, the United Arab Emirates is envisioned as a land of ultramodern skyscrapers or vast sand dunes. Yet, the Emirates are much more: a diverse tapestry of ecosystems that are home to a surprising array of life forms uniquely adapted to the Arabian environment. This talk explores the UAE's unique ecosystems, its terrestrial and marine biodiversity, and humanity's role in this young, rapidly evolving nation.
Speaker
John A. Burt, Author, "A Natural History of the Emirates" (Springer Nature, 2023); Head of the Marine Biology Lab and Associate Professor of Biology, NYUAD
2024-05-1657 min
NYUAD InstituteThe Golden HarvestThe Golden Harvest is a 6,000-year old love story in which the filmmaker tries to understand the profound, often troubled, relationship between olive trees and the people of the Mediterranean, including her own father. It is a complicated romance, sometimes funny, sometimes tragic, set in a region that includes some of the poorest and most conflicted areas of Europe and the Middle East.
Alia Yunis, Writer/Film Director, "The Golden Harvest", NYUAD
In conversation with
Jamal Rayyis, Wine and Food Writer
2024-05-1643 min
NYUAD InstituteUnfettered by Boundaries: Filmmaker Shekhar KapurA conversation with filmmaker Shekhar Kapur about his journey through diverse film industries and film genres, across national boundaries. From Masoom (Innocence); India, 1983 to his most recent What's Love Got to Do with it? UK, 2022, from the fantasy film, Mr. India; India, 1987, to realism, Bandit Queen; India, 1994 and historical fiction, Elizabeth; UK 1998, Kapur will share his experiences and insight. Not limited to the single screen, Kapur will share his future projects that include multi-screen installations, gaming, comics and animation.
Speakers
Shekhar Kapur, Film Director, Producer, Actor; Recipient of National Film Award, Filmfare Awards, BAFTA Nominations
In conversation with
Surabhi Sharma...
2024-04-2550 min
NYUAD InstituteInvest in Women: Accelerate ProgressJoin us in celebrating International Women's Day 2024 with an inspiring event themed Invest in Women: Accelerate Progress. The program features a lineup of speakers who are at the forefront of women and youth empowerment across the globe and will discuss the interplay of education and diplomacy regionally and globally, with a focus on women in innovative leadership.
Speakers
Gugu Ndebele, Executive Director, Oprah Winfrey Leadership Academy for Girls
Ouided Bouchamaoui, Nobel Peace Prize Co-Laureate, Former President of the Tunisian Confederation of Industry, Trade and Handicrafts
Opening Remarks
Wana Udobang, Multidisciplinary Artist and Storyteller
Lisa Coleman, Visiting Professor, NYU Stern School...
2024-04-251h 59
NYUAD InstituteInformation and Disinformation in Global ConflictObtaining accurate and current information from conflict zones has long posed numerous challenges for global media. The rise of generative AI and its use in targeted disinformation campaigns presents many new challenges that threaten to undermine the credibility of reporting and sway opinion. In this panel, four distinguished panelists will consider the problems posed by disinformation and generative AI from various perspectives, focusing in particular on the current research about the role of disinformation in today's rapidly changing media landscape.
Panel Members
Donald Jensen, Senior Advisor for Russia and Europe, US Institute of Peace
Joshua Tucker, Professor of Politics, Director...
2024-04-0458 min
NYUAD InstituteBoom.Diwan: Musical Cosmopolitanism from the Arabian Gulf to the Swahili CoastKicking off a week-long New York City residency by Kuwaiti music ensemble Boom.Diwan, this panel explores the history and intercultural dynamics of musical cultures in the Arabian Gulf and Africa’s Swahili Coast. Based in mercantile trade and cultural exchange dating back many centuries, the music of the Gulf and Western Indian Ocean have developed uniquely rich and cosmopolitan song forms and styles infrequently explored and heard in the West. The panel discusses their ongoing research on this musical nexus and offers musical demonstrations.
Panel Members
Ghazi Faisal al-Mulaifi, Visiting Assistant Professor of Music, NYUAD
Andrew Eisenberg, Program Head an...
2024-03-281h 01
NYUAD InstituteWhat Is the Role of Motherhood in the Public Domain?The roles of mothers across the public/private divide have long been contested and negotiated. How have women leveraged their identities as mothers to assert change in the public sphere? Beyond their achievements, what are the costs borne from these sacrifices? How has motherhood been instrumentalized or weaponized, and whose motherhood counts and whose is discounted? This talk will bring together three speakers to discuss the ways mothers assert agency in public domains and discourses. Their research and experiences - focusing on Argentina, Bangladesh and Egypt - provide insight from across geographies of the Global South on past and present...
2024-03-221h 10
NYUAD InstituteHarmonizing HopeIn this talk, Dr. Sarmast, Founder and Director of the Afghanistan National Institute of Music (ANIM), shares the inspiring journey of ANIM—a remarkable institution that has overcome adversity to emerge as a national and global symbol of hope, resilience, and artistic freedom. The presentation explores how ANIM—known as Afghanistan’s happiest place— plays a critical role in preserving the nation’s rich musical heritage, while offering a platform for all young Afghans to find their voices and develop their musical abilities. The narrative illustrates the unbreakable spirit of human creativity and music's transformative power in overcoming difficult circumstances by highlig...
2024-03-221h 06
NYUAD InstituteShehan Karunatilaka: Writing Across BordersExplore the captivating realm of Shehan Karunatilaka’s fiction, which masterfully intertwines the surreal and humorously dark. "The Seven Moons of Maali Almeida" is noted as “an afterlife noir” that reflects Sri Lanka’s tumultuous history through a unique lens. In this session, Shehan will share excerpts from his work and discuss his artistic craft, inspiration, and the nuances of addressing conflict and contested memories in writing. Drawing influence from global literary icons like Kurt Vonnegut and Margaret Atwood, Shehan's writing effortlessly connects local experiences to a worldwide audience.
Speaker
Shehan Karunatilaka, 2022 Booker Prize Winner, Author of 'The Seven Moons of Maali...
2024-03-221h 02
NYUAD InstituteSands, Seas, and Stars: Tracing Emirati History and Culture through Its CuisineIn celebration of UAE National Day, this talk offers an overview of the origins and evolution of Emirati cuisine as an expression of Emirati culture and history. Emirati foodways have grown in tandem with the development of the region within the contexts of trade across the Arabian Peninsula and Indian Ocean regions. The rise of an Emirati cuisine parallels the remarkable transformation of the UAE into a global leader in technology and culture, as well as in the transition to a more sustainable and secure future.
Speaker
Jonathan H. Shannon, Professor of Anthropology, Hunter College and Graduate Center, CUNY; Faculty...
2024-03-2140 min
NYUAD InstituteExposing the Secrets of Black HolesBlack holes are one of the most interesting and confusing objects in the universe. Their inevitable possibility is predicted by Einstein’s theory of general relativity, and their existence is confirmed by numerous experimental observations. Thus, we have to contend with the reality of black holes and seek to understand their ins and outs. In this talk, we journey from the knowns of black holes as one-way streets into an unavoidable end and venture into the unknowns which suggest that the inside of a black hole is secretly on the outside.
Speaker
Ahmed Almheiri, Assistant Professor of Physics, NYUAD
2024-03-2155 min
NYUAD InstituteThe Search for a Contemporary Art Scene in the UAE: From the Sand Palace to the Venice BiennaleDoes the UAE have an art scene? A group of European curators concluded it did not, after they visited in search of contemporary art and artists in the 1990s. In fact, that decade was a vibrant period in the UAE, and a tightly-knit cluster of artists was experimenting with the outer limits of what art can be. At the heart of that group was Mohamed Ahmed Ibrahim. Maya Allison curated his solo exhibition at the Venice Biennale in 2022, and in this presentation, she traces why the UAE’s art history evaded the radar of those curators in the 1990s, while gi...
2024-03-211h 05
NYUAD InstituteNYUAD Alumni: On Training and Becoming Professional ArtistsThis panel focuses on the journeys of four outstanding theater professionals who found their voices at NYU Abu Dhabi and are making their way in the US as playwrights, screenwriters and actors—each unique, but having shared the experience of studying and exploring the arts in Abu Dhabi.
Image credit: Rubén Polendo
Panel Members
Fatima Maan, Playwright, NYUAD ’18
Adam El Sayigh, Playwright, Screenwriter and Dramaturg, NYUAD ‘18
Arianna Gayle Stucki, Actor and Playwright, NYUAD ‘18
Attilio Rigotti, Theater Maker, Game Designer, Teacher, NYUAD ‘14
Moderated by
Rubén Polendo, Associate Dean for the Institute of Performing Arts, NYU Tisch School of the Arts; Foundi...
2024-03-2144 min
NYUAD InstituteThe Necessity of Young Adult Literature: A ConversationWhat can young adult literature teach us about the problems confronting the world today? Can these books possibly help us find potential solutions to these problems, no matter how old we are? The panel explores these questions, discusses the importance of grownups reading YA, and offers suggestions about what to put on your YA reading list.
Panel Members
Nur'aishah Shafiq, NYUAD Alumnus 2022, NYU Liberal Studies
Zoe Patterson, NYUAD Alumnus 2020, NYU Liberal Studies
Deborah Williams, Author, "The Necessity of Young Adult Fiction" (Oxford University Press, 2023); Clinical Professor, NYU Liberal Studies
2024-03-211h 13
NYUAD InstituteTrue Grit: Striving in the Face of AdversityThis talk discusses how it's common to embark on a challenging pursuit without knowing the likelihood of success. As we encounter hurdles and setbacks, we face a crucial decision: to give up or persevere. Optimism about our chances can prevent premature despair. The talk argues that "grit"—persisting in adversity—is rational only if it avoids unrealistic optimism. Rational striving requires close attention to our abilities and strengths and assessing whether our circumstances will likely support our success. We present a model of striving that seeks to encapsulate the multifaceted nature of this essential capacity of agents.
Speakers
Jennifer Morton, Asso...
2024-02-0644 min
NYUAD InstituteField Notes from Aridly Abundant LandscapesFaysal Tabbarah, the 2023 NPUAE Curator, leads a compelling exploration into the potential of arid environments at the National Pavilion UAE during the 18th International Architecture Exhibition. His work focuses on unveiling the hidden possibilities within arid landscapes, especially those in the UAE, such as desert plateaus, wadis, and coastal plains. This talk highlights innovative architectural designs tailored for arid climates, challenging traditional perceptions and exploring these environments as spaces rich in opportunity. The aim is to shift the narrative around aridity, presenting these regions as fertile grounds for architectural innovation and abundance.
This event is part of NYUAD Art Gallery's...
2024-02-0646 min
NYUAD InstituteClimate Law and Net Zero: Challenges and OpportunitiesAddressing the urgency of climate change and the foundational role of international agreements like the Paris Agreement of 2015, countries are urged to adopt concrete domestic measures. Beyond the realms of international directives, the evolution of 'climate law' encompasses various sectors, including administrative, commercial, human rights, and more. As nations worldwide adopt distinctive models for this, such as the UK, France, and the USA, understanding these shifts becomes paramount. This panel's primary focus is to assemble legal experts to extensively explore the intricacies and challenges of climate law and its domestic implications, particularly emphasizing the path toward achieving Net Zero.
Speakers
...
2024-02-0656 min
NYUAD InstituteThe Jazz of the CosmosExplore the intriguing connections between the realms of physics, cosmology, and quantum physics with the music that defines an era. This talk examines the narrative of cosmic structure, interpreting it through the elements of jazz music, and unveiling the harmonious relationship between these diverse yet unified fields.
Speakers
Stephon Alexander, Professor of Physics, Brown University
In conversation with
Arlie Petters, Provost, NYUAD
2024-02-061h 06
NYUAD InstituteCooling the Arab Gulf: How Air-Conditioning Changed EverythingIn the Arab Gulf, air-conditioning consumes about 60% of the domestic consumption of electricity. Yet, the ascendency of this technology is far from simple. Beyond simply providing coolness, air-conditioning transformed life as people knew it. In a remarkably short period of time, this seemingly innocent device reshaped houses, cities, practices of daily life, social relations, and even, bodies. Today, one can argue there is no society that is more air-conditioned than in the Gulf, where even the outdoors is being air-conditioned. This talk brings historical and ethnographic insights to explore how this energy-intensive technology became ubiquitous in the Gulf and to...
2024-01-0542 min
NYUAD InstituteDocumenting a Performing Arts HistoryKey figures involved in The Arts Center’s creation explore the significance and meaning of arts documentation while reflecting on their collaborative journey capturing seven years of The Arts Center’s history. They offer unique perspectives on their approaches and their individual and collective contributions toward this effort.
Speakers
Waleed Shah, Photographer, Creative Thinker, and Entrepreneur
Bill Bragin, Executive Artistic Director, The Arts Center, NYUAD
Nadine Khalil, Editor, Curator, and Critic
Moderated by
Mariët Westermann, Vice Chancellor, NYUAD
2023-10-241h 26
NYUAD InstituteWhy Experiment with Ancient Technologies?This talk explores the groundbreaking achievements of our ancestors in ancient Abu Dhabi, highlighting the complexity and significance of their pioneering innovations in archaeology. Discover the techniques and methods employed by ancient societies to craft stone axes, domesticate animals, transport goods over long distances, and develop bronze, humanity's first composite artificial material. The talk also discusses the UAE's global role as an exporter of copper long before the advent of oil.
Speakers
Ivan Semian, Director of Karmir Bloor Archeo Park in Yerevan, Armenia
In Collaboration with
Dhakira Center for Heritage Studies in the UAE, NYUAD
2023-10-2442 min
NYUAD InstituteConnecting WorldsPresenting two captivating works by director Ursula Biemann, explore the profound connections of Indigenous communities to their natural environments.
In the enthralling oceanic journey titled "Acoustic Ocean," we are transported to the Arctic Islands of Lofoten. Here, a scientist delves into the realm of acoustic ecology, probing the mysteries of the oceans and forging connections across species. The film's poetic portrayal invites us to contemplate the ocean's hidden symphony—replete with nascent life forms, imaginative interconnections, and the evolution of the planetary ecosystem. Through this science-fictional lens, Ursula Biemann unveils the intricate tapestry that binds life beneath the waves.
[Director: Ur...
2023-10-2443 min
NYUAD InstituteShattered Glass of Beirut: Conserving Lebanese History TogetherThe explosion at Beirut's port in 2020 wreaked havoc on the American University of Beirut (AUB) Archaeological Museum, shattering 72 valuable glass artifacts. This talk reveals the story of these vessels' journey from Beirut to the British Museum in London, through their recovery, conservation, and exhibition phases. And it underscores the pivotal role of international collaboration, training, and outreach in heritage conservation.
Speakers
Dr. Duygu Çamurcuoğlu, Senior Conservator and Researcher, Department of Collection Care, The British Museum
In Collaboration with
Dhakira Center for Heritage Studies in the UAE, NYUAD
2023-09-281h 26
NYUAD InstituteThe Way We Move: Can Information and Technology Change It?This talk focuses on the issue of urban mobility and the associated traffic congestion that is a concern in cities worldwide. With the increasing urban population and motorization rates, it is expected that congestion levels will continue to rise, along with negative externalities. The talk explores whether it is possible to predict how congestion spreads in a city, to develop proactive mitigation strategies, and to alleviate congestion by promoting more sustainable transportation modes. The talk also discusses how technology and information can be used to understand current mobility patterns and propose more sustainable alternatives for the future.
Speakers
Monica Menendez...
2023-06-1258 min
NYUAD InstituteUrban Modernity in the Contemporary Gulf: Obsolescence and OpportunitiesThis panel delves into the 20th century architectural production in the modernization era of the Arabian Gulf and its impact on the notions of locality, cosmopolitanism, and modernity. The speakers will examine the initiatives that have re-engaged with the ville moderne and reflect on the role of the urban fabric in narrating social growth, East–West dynamics, and citizens’ memories. The panel explores the concept of modern heritage in the context of the contemporary city, interrogate the value of modern architecture in the non-West, and discusses the expanding academic research on Gulf urbanism.
Speakers
Sultan Sooud Al Qassemi, Founder of Barj...
2023-05-1646 min
NYUAD InstituteDecoding Mars with the "Hope" Probe: Uncovering the Red Planet's Secrets of LifeThis talk will examine the question of whether life existed on Mars and its transformation from a warm, wet planet to a cold, dry desert world. The speaker will discuss the Emirates Mars Mission, also known as the "Hope" probe, which is providing insight into the surface and atmospheric processes of Mars. The Mars research group at NYU Abu Dhabi's Center for Space Science is analyzing data from the probe to uncover answers to questions about Mars and its potential for life. The speaker will present their latest findings, ongoing research, and outreach projects.
Speakers
Dimitra Atri, Group Leader, Mars...
2023-03-091h 00
NYUAD InstituteThe Cairo Genizah as a Treasury of Arabic LiteratureThe Cairo Genizah is a collection of Jewish manuscripts from the Middle Ages found in an ancient synagogue in Al-Fustat, Egypt. It is a valuable resource for understanding the history, culture, and everyday life of Jews in the medieval Islamic world. Recently, it has been recognized for its significance in the study of Arabic literature and culture, as Jews in the Genizah also wrote and copied poetry in Arabic for both sacred and leisurely purposes. This panel discusses the Genizah Collection’s role in helping us understand medieval culture, and highlights the collection’s Arabic poetic literature, showcasing the enduring role...
2023-03-091h 25
NYUAD InstituteThe (Impossible) Decolonization of the Western MuseumFor decades now, the “universal museum,” an institution invented in Western Europe, has been challenged, and its decolonization has become a subject of debate within the institution itself. Yet, Françoise Vergès argues that the decolonization of the Western museum is impossible if we adopt Frantz Fanon’s remark that "Decolonization is a program of absolute disorder” (1961). In this conversation, Vergès retraces the connection between collecting and colonialism, explores the capacity of neoliberalism to commodify critiques, and presents the project of a “museum without objects” and different decolonial practices of the arts.
Speakers
Françoise Vergès, Political Scientist, Histor...
2023-02-1436 min
NYUAD InstituteSpeaking English: Staging the Dialectics of Identity, Culture and SurvivalThe wildly successful world premiere of Iranian-American Sanaz Toossi’s award-winning play and production English (2022) captivated audiences who had never before seen their story captured in live performance. Set in a TOEFL classroom in Karaj, Iran in 2008, English occurs during a period of political transformation resulting in travel restrictions and family separations. The play focuses on the many personal, cultural and political questions raised by “foreign” language acquisition that are both specific and expansive upon its Iranian context. In conversation about this theatrical work, the award-winning English creative team discusses these topics and the process from script to production.
Speakers
Knud A...
2022-11-1540 min
NYUAD InstituteMaking Decisions in a World of UncertaintyPandemic, war, rising oil prices, food shortages, … there is no uncertainty about how uncertain these times are. Yet, we have to make decisions at all scales—from individuals trying to decide how to financially invest to policy-makers trying to curb epidemics with sound public health interventions. Faced with many decision-making complexities, we look to technology with its promise of data-driven insights and artificial intelligence to come to our aid. This talk examines how prescriptive analytics can help with these challenges but also discusses their limitations and what the landscape of computational decision-making looks like.
Speaker
Azza Abouzied, Associate Professor of Comp...
2022-11-101h 07
NYUAD InstituteLegacies of ViolenceRecent research in the social sciences suggests that families’ past experiences of violence –notably, war and displacement – shape descendants’ preferences and behaviors for generations and influence economic, political, and social decisions within these families over decades and, at times, centuries. This talk provides an overview of the cutting-edge research on the legacies of violence and describes what we know about the intergenerational effects of violence and the social processes by which family trauma is inherited. To illustrate the argument, the talk draws in part on fieldwork among victims and their descendants in Ukraine, Catalonia, Cambodia, and Guatemala.
Speaker
Leonid Peisakhin, Associat...
2022-11-1052 min
NYUAD InstituteGlobal Water Security Challenges Threats And Solutions For A Thirsty PlanetEvery part of existence is fueled by water. It supports the most important industries in society including the energy sector, agriculture, and transportation. Water resources are under increasing strain as the world’s population rises and the economy grows, resulting in decreased river flows, the loss of lakes and wetlands, and declining ground-water levels. This panel explores the main threats to water security, shares insights, and identifies actions to tackle water-related security risks, specifically in the UAE, based on a shared understanding and close collaboration among government, private sector, and academia.
Opening Remarks
Mariët Westermann, Vice Chancellor, NYUAD
Panelists
Nid...
2022-06-151h 43
NYUAD InstituteA Brief History Of The UniverseA roller coaster through cosmic time, this talk truncates the 13.7 billion years of life of our Universe into 60 minutes. Starting from a very hot cosmic soup, the Universe evolved from tiny initial perturbations to the large variety of structures we can observe today. The talk also explores the biggest mystery in modern physics: the dark side of the Universe.
Speakers
Andrea Valerio Macciò, Associate Professor of Physics and Director of the Center for Astro, Particle, and Planetary Physics, NYUAD
2022-05-311h 20
NYUAD Institute“Migrants Through Time”; An Insight Into The Female Diasporic VoiceThis talk discusses the role of place in diasporic literature and the universality of women's voices. Who can speak for whom? What role do distance and diasporic privilege play? Does nostalgia take on dangerous potential, and does it really matter if writing is about the confluence of one's imagination and memory?
Speakers
Saba Khan, Author, "Skyfall" (Bloomsbury, 2020); Instructor of Social Science, NYUAD
Sabyn Javeri, Author, "Hijabistan" (Harper Collins, 2019); Senior Lecturer of Writing, NYUAD
In conversation with
Tishani Doshi, Associate Professor of Practice, Literature and Creative Writing, NYUAD
2021-12-081h 04
NYUAD InstitutePride & Future- Cultural Heritage In AfghanistanWith the return of the Taliban to power in Afghanistan, many may remember the destruction of the Bamiyan Buddhas in 2001. Since then, Afghans in the culture sector have established many cultural heritage development initiatives, which highlight the country’s diverse regional identities. Although heritage might not seem to be the highest priority during times of uncertainty, in the past 20 years it has proven to be a basic need and an effective tool for peace and development. This conversation reflects on Afghanistan’s diverse heritage and discusses a path into the future.
Speaker
Omar Sultan, Former Deputy Minister of Culture in Afgh...
2021-12-081h 23
NYUAD InstituteFive Days That Shaped The UAEThe five days between November 28 and December 2, 1971 saw Abu Dhabi mark the fifth anniversary of Sheikh Zayed as Ruler, an invasion by Iran, and a never-to-be-forgotten appearance by the Star of the East herself—Umm Kulthum. This talk reflects on this period of celebration, turmoil, and anticipation.
Speaker
James Langton, Journalist, Writer & Editor
In Collaboration with
NYUAD Cultural Engagement - Student Life
2021-12-081h 05
NYUAD InstituteA Map Of Many Cities; The Making Of Building SharjahThis talk explores the collaborative research efforts to produce “Building Sharjah,” the first book--not only in the UAE but in the region--to document the history of a Gulf city. The panelists share the driving force behind the book and describe the journey of documenting the rise of the city through stories from its citizens, residents, and immigrants.
Speakers
Todd Reisz, Author, "Showpiece City: How Architecture Made Dubai" (Stanford University Press, 2020); Co-Editor, "Building Sharjah" (Birkhauser, 2021)
Sultan Sooud Al Qassemi, Kuwait Foundation Visiting Scholar, Middle
East Initiative, Harvard Kennedy School; Co-Editor "Building Sharjah"
Farah Fayyad, Graphic Designer, "Building Sharjah"
Reem Khorshid, Lead Rese...
2021-12-081h 21
NYUAD InstituteSpace Exploration And Extraterrestrial MiningAs population and pollution increase, humans are looking at high frontiers. Potential benefits of extraterrestrial mining are immense. For example, NASA has identified an asteroid, 16 Psyche, to be worth more than 10,000 quadrillion dollars, while the economy of our planet is about 80 trillion dollars. But there are also challenges, including: mining in Space (planets and asteroids); exploration, transport, manufacture, waste management of space; effects on humans; optimal design of tests; bio(microbial) approach, etc. This talk discusses aspects of these possible explorations and their challenges.
* Time: 7:00pm Gulf Standard Time
10:00am Eastern Standard Time
To access the live stream click here
...
2021-12-081h 15
NYUAD InstituteMaking Social SpacesHow do architectural design and users’ practices inform the creation of social space? In which spaces and through which modalities do people come together and “make” space in a city as diverse as Abu Dhabi? How are these processes approached by various disciplines—from architecture and urban design to the social sciences and the arts? This talk brings together scholars and practitioners to discuss urban planning, public spaces, and social and cultural practices in Abu Dhabi.
Speakers
Ji Young Kim, Event Specialist, Sheikh Saud bin Saqr Al Qasimi Foundation for Policy Research, NYUAD Alumna
Adina Hempel, Associate Professor of Interior Design...
2021-07-051h 30
NYUAD InstituteStories We Continue to Tell: The Many Returns of the Thousand and One NightsThe Thousand and One Nights has been fueling the imagination and craft of storytellers since the 18th century. This conversation between two winners of the Sheikh Zayed Book Award traces the returns and afterlives of the Nights until today, and discusses why these tales continue to inspire and affect the stories of writers from all over the globe.
Speakers
Richard van Leeuwen, Senior Lecturer in Islamic Studies, University of Amsterdam; Winner of the Sheikh Zayed Book Award for Arabic Culture in Other Languages (2020)
Philip Kennedy, Professor of Middle Eastern and Islamic Studies, Comparative Literature, NYUAD; Winner of the Sheikh Zayed...
2021-07-051h 31
NYUAD InstituteScientific Research and Development in the UAE: Challenges and ProspectsThe UAE has built an instrumental ecosystem of research around the local, governmental, and independent academic institutions, research and technology industrial organizations, and scientific innovation parks, among others. This talk discusses current efforts to improve research and development infrastructure, expand its capacity, and influence impactful research outcomes and productions globally. It addresses the challenges that persist and how they can be addressed to build a robust local scientific research and development ecosystem in the UAE.
Speakers
Behjat Al Yousuf, Executive Vice President for Outreach and Engagement, MBZUAI
In conversation with
Hoda Al Khzaimi, Research Assistant Professor, Electrical & Computer Engineering; Director...
2021-07-051h 31
NYUAD InstituteSport in the Middle East: Promoting Gender EqualityWomen and women's sport are playing a growing role in promoting equality and cooperation across business and society in the Middle East. From the grassroots level to professional ranks, sport is being used to break down barriers, unite people, and contribute to a tolerant and diverse society. Why does sport--and the rising prominence of women's sport, in particular--have such power to help transform society? What examples are having an impact today? What work lies ahead if we are to continue making progress in this area?
Speakers
Salma Al Busaeedi, Intercollegiate Athletics and External Sports Relations Manager, NYUAD
Ronit Glasman, Head...
2021-07-051h 08
NYUAD Institute(Re)imagining Borders: The Performing Arts in Global DialogueAt a moment when we are confronted by the changing nature and conditions of borders and borderlands, can the performing arts serve as a catalyst for (re)imagining current border logics, shaped not only by long-standing territorial and political disputes but also by the effects of globalization? This panel engages with the meaning of borders not only as physical sites of conflict and contestation but also as cultural and imagined spaces, where competing interests, ideologies, and narratives are brought into dialogue through music, dance, and theater.
Speakers
Joanna Sherman, Founder-Artistic Director Bond Street Theatre
Amal Murkus, Palestinian Singer and Activist
...
2021-07-051h 29
NYUAD InstitutePrivacy in a Globally Interconnected WorldNovember 8, 2020
In 2019 it was estimated that more than 20 billion internet-of-things (IoT) devices were active around the world. This includes all computational devices capable of holding and processing personal data, such as smartphones, fitness trackers, smart bulbs, cleaning robots, etc.
The wealth of data collected and processed by IoT devices raises questions about privacy since much of the data collection and processing takes place through the public internet and in servers around the world.
This talk discusses the technological enforcement of privacy, explains the concept of end-to-end-encryption, and presents solutions for privacy-preserving computation.
Speaker
Michail Maniatakos, Director of the Modern Microprocessors...
2020-12-221h 14
NYUAD InstituteNature's Shapes and Patterns and the Instabilities That Create ThemNovember 22, 2020
It could be argued that mathematics was born with the purpose of making sense of nature's patterns. The mathematics of simple and regular shapes was developed first, and with great success, so much so that predictable regularity and mathematics have become somewhat synonymous in common speech. But, unbeknownst to most of the general public, mathematicians have long been working at conceptual tools for making sense of nature’s irregular, never-repeating, and time-changing patterns.
This talk illustrates some examples and general ideas stemming from the theory of instability, one of the most powerful ways to understand why natural phenomena look th...
2020-12-221h 20
NYUAD InstitutePlague And Contagion In The Premodern Muslim MediterraneanSeptember 22, 2020
Muslims have been familiar with infectious disease since the time of the Prophet in the seventh century.
This talk reviews the diversity of Muslim views on contagion and plague within the context of Islamic law, Sufism, and medicine. What did Muslim scholars say about how one should respond to the challenge of a pandemic, how did Muslims actually respond, and how do we know?
These questions have clear contemporary relevance in this time of the coronavirus and throw the stakes of framing the history of Muslim responses to contagious disease into stark relief.
Speaker
Justin Stearns, Associate Professor in...
2020-11-011h 18
NYUAD InstituteAs Far As Isolation Goes A Conversation With Tania El KhourySeptember 29, 2020
Lebanese artist Tania El Khoury is known for her genre-bending interactive live artworks performed in unique spaces and concerned with the ethical and political potential of such encounters.
El Khoury discusses her latest micro-theater work, As Far as Isolation Goes (Online), which explores the mental health of asylum seekers through one-on-one zoom performances, as well as other works that redefine the role of the audience as an active participant.
Speakers
Tania El Khoury, Live Artist; Co-director, MA in Human Rights & The Arts, Bard College
In conversation with Joanna Settle, Arts Professor and Program Head of Theater, NYUAD
In collaboration...
2020-11-011h 15
NYUAD InstituteWhat On Earth They SayingOctober 4, 2020
Award-winning author and journalist Charles Siebert discusses his many experiences visiting with, and writing about, non-human animals, and what they reveal to us about themselves and us.
Through his interludes with everyone from a former cellist in an all-chimpanzee circus orchestra; to an octopus escape artist; to elephant and whale ventriloquists; to traumatized orphaned parrots who heal equally traumatized war veterans, Siebert introduces us to the animal within all humans; the common biology and languages we share with other beings; and the costs of failing to ask "What On Earth Are They Saying."
Speakers
Charles Siebert, Professor of Practice...
2020-11-011h 31
YouCan PodcastEp. 2: Veronica Lee - NYUAD/ Nature Inc. TokyoToday’s guest is Veronica Lee - NYUAD alumna and mechanical engineer at Nature Inc. in Tokyo.
Since Veronica writes a lot on NYUAD admissions and even has an IGTV video on her admissions story, in this episode we discussed the importance of extracurricular activities in high school and university, talked about empowering women in STEM which led Veronica to join imagiLabs, a startup found by NYUAD alumnae. We also talked about moving to Japan, starting a job in Tokyo and discussed Veronica’s favorite books.
Aidana Assylbekova - https://www.instagram.com/aidana.assylbekova/
Veronica Lee - https://www.inst...
2020-04-2546 min
NYUAD InstituteOceans Under Climate Stress- Warming Up, Losing Breath, Turning Sour2019.10.30
Our oceans are becoming increasingly acidic as a result of rising atmospheric concentrations of carbon dioxide. Simultaneously, more than 90 percent of the warming caused by human carbon emissions is absorbed by the world’s oceans. As they warm up, oceans lose oxygen, essential for marine life. Together, these effects amplify one another and put marine species and ecosystems under great stress, threatening a vital source of food and income for human societies. This talk discusses the causes of these environmental changes and explores their interactions and how they are impacting marine ecosystems.
Zouhair Lachkar, Senior Scientist, Center for Prototype Climate Mo...
2019-11-2048 min
NYUAD InstituteStanding For Reason- The University In A Dogmatic Age2019.11.03
Our national discourse has become increasingly toxic, irrational, self-absorbed; our leaders and our citizens suffer from an allergy to nuance and complexity. In his new book, Standing for Reason: The University in a Dogmatic Age, John Sexton, NYU president from 2002 to 2015, argues that universities must make the fight against this "secular dogmatism" central to their missions. In conversation with journalist, author, and NYU teacher James Traub, Sexton speaks about the "secular ecumenism" for which the university has long stood, and about the need for a new model of the “global network university” to serve an increasingly interconnected world.
John Sexton, Auth...
2019-11-201h 06
NYUAD InstituteBuilding From The Sea The Coral Masonry Of Jezirat Al Hamra, Ras Al Khaimah2019.11.11
A mysterious cluster of over 500 buildings constructed almost entirely from coral, Jezirat Al Hamra, Ras Al Khaimah is a coastal village that was abandoned over half a century ago. This talk traces the evolution of this community, which represents a unique archaeological and architectural asset for the Emirates, into the future, and examines the practice of coral masonry. Using geochemical dating techniques, we can understand the history of the coral structures and calculate the type and volume of corals that were mined from the sea to support the expansion of this early urban setting.
John Burt, Head of the Marine...
2019-11-2050 min
NYUAD InstituteStorytelling For A Jaded World- Conversation With Caroline Brothers2019.09.10
The story of child refugees alone on the highways of Europe originally appeared as newspaper reportage, was reconceived as the fiction work “Hinterland” by Caroline Brothers, and then adapted by Scottish theater company Vox Motus into “Flight,” a groundbreaking, award-winning theatrical work. In this talk, Brothers shares her experience of the story’s double adaptation. What considerations governed the decisions to carry out the new forms? What might be lost, and what might be gained?
Caroline Brothers, Author "Hinterland" (Bloomsbury, 2011),
In conversation with Piia Mustamaki, Lecturer of Writing, NYUAD
In Collaboration with The Arts Center at NYU Abu Dhabi
2019-11-1051 min
NYUAD InstituteThe Three Pillars Of Radicalization- Needs, Narratives, And Networks2019.09.22
What fuels radicalization to violence? Is de-radicalization a possibility? How can societies build sustainable peace and reinforce people’s commitment to coexist in harmony? Based on rare field research with terrorists spanning the ideological spectrum, The Three Pillars of Radicalization explores the drivers of radicalization. Evidence collected across the globe suggests that when conjoined, the drivers create a combustible psychological mixture that threatens social stability and global peace. Yet, interventions exist that can reverse this psychological process and mitigate contemporary terrorism. Panelists discuss the ways in which community-led initiatives can build societies resilient to unpredictability, divisiveness, and disasters.
Speakers
Rohan Gu...
2019-11-1000 min
NYUAD InstituteGetting NYUAD In The Groove2019.09.25
This presentation reviews five years of research conducted at NYU Abu Dhabi exploring the cross-cultural practices and understanding of musical rhythm. Three previously held workshops bringing together experts from musicology, computational modeling, cognition, and neuroscience informed the formation of a large corpus of music from the region, machine learning techniques that can analyze and characterize this corpus, and algorithmic music generation tools that emulate important musical traditions, including that of the Carnatic tradition in South India. The presentation includes a live performance of Carnatic music and a duet between a human master of the tradition and a computer-generated emulation of...
2019-11-101h 25
NYUAD InstituteBrexit In Historical Perspective2019.09.30
It is more than three years since the British people voted to leave the European Union (EU), which it is set to do on October 31. If it does so without a deal then this will have serious economic and political repercussions throughout Europe, but especially in Britain. How did we get here? This talk explores how the separate but interwoven histories of Britain, Ireland, and the rest of Europe have led us to the current crisis.
Kevin O'Rourke, Professor of Economics, NYUAD; Author of "A Short History of Brexit: From Brentry to Backstop" (Pelican, 2019)
2019-11-1059 min
NYUAD InstituteGender And Globalization In Contemporary Visual Art10.04.2019
Gender And Globalization In Contemporary Visual Art
This program features the work of renowned feminist visual artist Shahzia Sikander. As an artist that hails from the Pakistani diaspora, Sikander’s work engages multiple national and transnational frames simultaneously, drawing attention to the imbrication of race, class, gender, and religion. The artist’s talk is followed by a panel discussion featuring noted art curators and historians Salwa Mikdadi (NYU Abu Dhabi) and Atteqa Ali (Zayed University, College of Art and Animation) who will situate Sikander's work in the context of contemporary visual art in the region.
Speakers
Shahzia Sikander, Award-Winning Visual Arti...
2019-05-0652 min
NYUAD InstituteIslands Of Heritage Conservation And Transformation In SoqotraIslands Of Heritage Conservation And Transformation In Soqotra
2019.02.13
Soqotra, the largest island of Yemen’s Soqotra Archipelago, is one of the most biologically diverse places in the world. A UNESCO natural World Heritage Site, the island is home not only to birds, reptiles, and plants found nowhere else on earth, but also to a rich cultural history and the endangered Soqotri language. Within the span of a decade this archipelago went from being among the most marginalized regions of Yemen to being promoted for its outstanding global value. Discussing the 21st-century environmental conservation, development, and heritage projects in Soqotra that af...
2019-02-2753 min
NYUAD InstituteGender and STEM: Insights from the Arab WorldApril 30, 2018
Gender diversity in science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) is a global challenge in this rapidly growing industry. Experts studying the gender ratio in STEM have found that it is far more balanced in the Arab world than in the West. The many examples of highly successful women entrepreneurs in the technology sector emerging from Arab countries is contrasted with some remaining challenges faced by Arab women in their education and employment trajectory in STEM. This panel of experts in gender, STEM and technology highlights the inspiring contributions Arab women have made to the STEM fields and cover the...
2018-06-1257 min
NYUAD InstituteEmpowerment on Trial: Encountering Emirati Women’s VoicesMarch 29, 2018
For a long time, Emirati women were mainly associated with the concealed space of the domestic household and considered as the guardians and transmitters of Emirati tradition and religious values. During the last years, however, Emirati women figure more prominently on the public stage – not least due to a variety of state-sponsored programs aiming at the empowerment of women, particularly in the domain of education, political representation and economic performance. In this context, the term women leadership looms largely in public and governmental discourses highlighting the success that Emirati women meanwhile have achieved by venturing into a great variety of...
2018-06-121h 30
NYUAD InstituteExtreme Poverty in the Modern World: Measurement and Global TrendsMarch 5, 2018
The elimination of extreme poverty has been recognized as a global goal. Extreme Poverty was defined in the 1990s by the World Bank in terms of its famous ‘$-a-day’ poverty line. The line has been controversial, in part because it is not clear how anyone could live on one dollar per day. This talk examines a more transparent approach. This new approach is based on people’s needs for food, shelter, and clothing, and it indicates there is more extreme poverty in the world than the $-a-day line shows. This talk also focuses on trends in poverty and inequality.
Speake...
2018-06-121h 10
NYUAD InstituteOn the First Arabic Novella from the 11th Century:: The Doctors' Dinner Party by Ibn Butlan12/12/2017
his talk showcases a little-known gem of medieval Arabic creative literature, the Da`wat al-Aṭibbā’ or Doctors' Dinner Party by Ibn Butlan (d.1066 CE). This text is an important, but little-known, milestone in the history of pre-modern Arabic narrative. This talk also focuses on the significance of the work along with the challenges of translating such a work into English in the 21st century as well as why it still appeals to a contemporary audience.
Speaker
Philip Kennedy, General Editor, Library of Arabic Literature and Professor of Middle Eastern and Islamic Studies, NYUAD
2017-12-311h 13
NYUAD InstituteCrypto Wars: From Ceasar to Quantum Powers and Smart Cities11/26/2017
People live in an era of smart cities empowered by Autonomous systems, FinTech technologies, Quantum computations and Artificial Intelligence. The new-age information revolution is pushing the limits of all electronic representations in terms of computational complexity, power, and area. The security of any hardware devices, embedded systems and generic system used within these environments will be dependent on the robustness and strength of Cryptographic primitives used as atomic security components. This talk addresses the evolutions of different cryptographic landscapes through presenting (software and hardware-centric) designs that fit into different environments, especially environments with extreme computational limitations, and the potential attacks...
2017-12-3149 min
NYUAD InstituteSleep Less Smile More: Interplay Between Sleep and Mood Disorders11/15/2017
Most people have experienced the close links between their body rhythms and mood. For example, changes in sleep-wake cycle during jet lag can temporarily affect mood. In light of the fact that most people feel good, and function better, after a good night’s sleep, it is surprising that sleep deprivation therapy can rapidly treat depression in psychiatric patients. One of the leading hypotheses for the therapeutic effect of sleep deprivation is that it resets abnormal rhythms in depressed patients. This talk explores how stress affects the neurophysiology of brain circuits linking mood and rhythmic processes such as sleep.
Dipesh Ch...
2017-12-281h 05
NYUAD InstituteThe Everyday Lives Of Muslim American Teenage Boys10/30/2017
Based on his new book, Keeping It Halal: The Everyday Lives of Muslim American Teenage Boys (Princeton University Press, 2017), sociologist John O’Brien provides a uniquely personal look at the social worlds of a group of young male friends as they navigate the complexities of growing up Muslim in America. This talk offers a portrait of Muslim American teenage boys concerned with typical teenage issues—girlfriends, school, parents, being cool— and describes their efforts to devise novel and dynamic modes of Muslim American identity in a new and changing America.
John O’Brien, Author, "Keeping It Halal: The Everyday Lives of Musli...
2017-12-0747 min
NYUAD InstituteDo You Trust Your Chip10/18/2017
Ubiquity of electronic devices—mostly smart ones with electronic chips embedded in them—is attributed to the desire to improve the quality of our lives, but can we really trust these chips? Driven by cost-conscious consumer electronics, outsourcing of various crucial steps in chip design and fabrication is forcing chip designers and users to re-assess their trust in hardware. Chips are increasingly prone to hardware-level threats such as reverse engineering, counterfeiting, Intellectual Property (IP) piracy, and malicious tampering (i.e., hardware trojans).
This talk covers various forms of threats that the electronic chip supply chain is up against as well as d...
2017-11-2342 min
NYUAD InstituteWhat On Earth Are Animals Saying?September 19, 2017
Award winning author and journalist, Charles Siebert, talks of his many experiences visiting with, and writing about, non-human animals, and what they reveal to us about themselves and us. Through his interludes with everyone from a former cellist in an all chimpanzee circus orchestra; to an octopus escape artist; to elephant and whale ventriloquists; to traumatized orphaned parrots who heal equally traumatized war veterans, Siebert introduces us to the animal within all humans; the common biology and languages we share with other beings; and the costs of failing to hear “What On Earth Animals Are Saying.”
Charles Siebert Professor of P...
2017-10-161h 05
NYUAD InstituteResearch Using a Little Fish for Solving Big Health ProblemsMay 3, 2017
Diabetes. Obesity. Cancer. Chronic diseases are taking their toll on the world’s population, and their threat is rising. The instinct to accelerate research with a laser focus on finding treatments to halt these diseases in their tracks is shared by researchers, physicians, patients and the general public; but the race to the cure is not always the path to transformative discoveries. Basic understanding of the cellular, genetic, epigenetic and physiological processes that underlie all diseases is the primary way to figure out what has gone wrong. Using the model system, zebrafish, our work is uncovering the fundamental processes th...
2017-07-1048 min
NYUAD InstituteNarrating Palestine: A Conversation with Rashid Khalidi and Ismail KhalidiApril 27, 2017
How can Palestinians most effectively represent their past and present to Western and Arab audiences? This event brings the scholar Rashid Khalidi into conversation with playwright Ismail Khalidi to discuss their academic and artistic trajectories and the ways in which art and scholarship approach Palestinian history and society in differing, complementary ways.
Ismail Khalidi Playwright, Poet and Director
Rashid Khalidi Edward Said Professor of Modern Arab Studies, Columbia University
Moderated by
Justin Stearns Associate Professor in Arab Crossroads Studies, NYUAD
2017-06-251h 08
NYUAD InstituteWhat On Earth Is A Citizen Of The World2017.04.11
In the 4th century BCE, Diogenes of Sinope claimed that the whole world was his hometown. Since then, that idea has influenced hundreds of generations of people including figures as diverse as Rumi in 13th century Persia, and Montaigne in 16th century France. Surely Diogenes’ claim was ahead of its time, since up to quite recently, the large majority of people didn’t know about or have the capacity to influence most other people in our “global village.” Today, in a world that is interconnected in so many ways—technically, culturally, economically, ecologically—the idea seems much more apt. But how do we un...
2017-05-0351 min
NYUAD InstituteTajdeed- Bringing Contemporary Arabic Stories To America2017.04.06
In 2016, American literary magazine The Common published a special issue devoted to contemporary Arabic fiction. Co-edited by the journal's editor-in-chief Jennifer Acker and prominent Jordanian writer Hisham Bustani, the issue was the result of four years of collaboration that began in Abu Dhabi. Today, award-winning Egyptian writer Youssef Rakha, who contributed an introduction to the volume, joins the issue’s editors to discuss the 25 stories representing 15 countries across the Middle East, as well as the topics of translation from Arabic to English and international artistic collaboration.
NOTE: This event will be in English with simultaneous Arabic translation.
Youssef Rakha Writer
Hi...
2017-05-031h 20
NYUAD InstituteWorkforce Needs, Security Imperatives: The Liberal Arts in the 21st Century2017.03.15
Universities are proliferating around the world to meet the growing demand for graduates equipped with work-ready skills, and for research that produces innovative approaches to human security. But what kind of study and inquiry actually serves those purposes? Is the rush to address today’s problems leaving us ill-prepared for tomorrow’s tasks? In fact, what happens when students are exposed to a variety of approaches to their world, and researchers are encouraged to follow their curiosity? This lecture examines how the less hurried and more measured liberal arts tradition provides better preparation for the unknowable challenges of the future.
Spea...
2017-05-0342 min
NYUAD InstituteMuslim Millennials Today Identity And Religion2017.03.12
The Arab world’s experience over the last two years has cast more light on questions of religion, religious leadership and religious life than at any time in the region’s recent history. Common narratives about the “problem” abound, but few, if any, people have asked critical questions like: How do young Arabs think of their faith today? Who do they go to for religious concerns? How do they make sense of their religious identity and their faith’s role in society? This panel showcases the results of the survey conducted by the Tabah Foundation's Futures Initiative:“Arab-Muslim Millennial Attitudes on Religion...
2017-05-0352 min
2017-02-2602 min
NYUAD InstituteServing the God of Justice and Mercy- Muslim and Christian Perspectives2017.01.11
Islam and Christianity share the vision of being universal and missionary religions, both about equally strong in number of followers. Focusing on the relationship of Christianity and Islam, this panel considers the following question: how do Muslims and Christians serve the same God, who for both is God of Justice and Mercy, God of Majesty and Beauty, omnipotent and omnipresent? Both Muslims and Christians know that their ultimate destiny is anchored in the justice and mercy of God who alone offers life eternal beyond death to everyone. This session explores various aspects of these insights.
Gerhard Böwering Professor of I...
2017-02-2050 min
NYUAD InstituteGlobal Warming: Environment, Arts, Legislation and Research2016.11.19
This panel explores issues of global warming and rising water levels, in connection with the research and artistic movements that have emerged in response to these issues. The speakers also share their insight on the UAE’s response to climate change.
This panel discussion is organized in conjunction with Holoscenes, a powerful performance piece presented by the NYUAD Arts Center on the theme of climate change and rising water levels.
2017-01-171h 23
NYUAD InstituteThe Art of Outer Space in the Information Age2016.10.26
This conversation explores art and technology in the context of the NYUAD Art Gallery exhibition "Invisible Threads: Technology and its Discontents," framed by the region and upcoming Emirates Mission to Mars. The speakers lead a discussion about the philosophical and creative drive behind humankind's desire to travel into space.
2017-01-0848 min