U.S.-Egypt Science & Technology Joint Fund Quarterly Report

The program aims to promote scientific research and technological innovation in Egypt through collaborative projects between U.S. and Egyptian researchers. During the first quarter of fiscal year 2020, program activity was dominated by the eligibility check and review processes for the Cycle 20 collaborative program. The 2019 Joint Fund Symposium was held in Cairo, bringing together U.S. and Egyptian principal investigators from Cycles 17-19 to discuss their research plans and present the outcomes of past collaborative scientific research projects. The event provided an opportunity for grantees to meet other program participants, discuss their research plans, and present the outcomes of past collaborative scientific research projects. The second phase of the Innovate Egypt program, the AIMS (Advanced Innovation Mentoring and Support) Accelerator, was organized for six selected teams. This three-month training program aimed to provide support and mentoring to the selected teams, helping them to develop their innovative ideas and projects. The program included a range of activities, including training sessions, workshops, and individual team meetings. Throughout the quarter, NAS staff corresponded with U.S. principal investigators from Cycles 17, 18, and 19 regarding various issues, including budget concerns, travel questions, and program guidelines. The NAS also inquired whether any of the two-year Cycle 18 projects set to end in the U.S. on February 29, 2020 would need to request a no-cost extension (NCE). The technical reviews of the eligible collaborative research proposals began with parallel review processes occurring in both the U.S. and Egypt. NAS began organizing the U.S. review process, while STDF began organizing the Egyptian review process. The review process will continue in the upcoming quarter, with planning and preparations moving forward for the eventual approval of the final list of proposals by the U.S.-Egypt S&T Joint Board. The program's annual report was submitted to USAID, and a quarterly accrual report was sent to USAID on December 12. The program's administration also included organizing calls with USAID, the Department of State, and the U.S. Embassy in Cairo to discuss program updates.