U.S.-EGYPT SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY JOINT FUND QUARTERLY REPORT

The joint fund aims to promote scientific and technological cooperation between the two countries. In May 2015, the Request for Application (RFA) for Cycle 17 of the joint fund closed, with 154 application accounts for Collaborative Research Grants and 89 application accounts for Junior Scientist Development Visits. The application process was managed by STDF, with NAS providing administrative support. The NAS and STDF agreed to divide the proposal-screening process, with NAS screening all collaborative and undesignated proposals, and STDF screening all junior proposals. A total of 113 collaborative proposals were found eligible for further review, while all undesignated proposals were deemed ineligible. The NAS contacted all U.S. applicants to inform them of the status of their proposals. The reviewer recruitment process for collaborative proposals began in June 2015, with NAS contacting 108 prospective reviewers. Thirty-five reviewers agreed to participate in the review process, including a mix of U.S. S&T Joint Fund alumni and expert scientists. The reviewers will use a newly drafted review form, which has been shared with STDF and USAID. Multiple Skype discussions were held in May and June with STDF to discuss the closing of the RFA and steps going forward. The next quarter's plans include finalizing the reviewer recruitment process, holding virtual and in-person panel meetings, and planning the joint selection meeting. NAS and STDF will also discuss the next steps for Cycle 18. Quarterly progress and accrual reports will be prepared and acquitted. The joint fund's activities are focused on promoting scientific and technological cooperation between the U.S. and Egypt, with a goal of improving the country's scientific and technological capacity. The joint fund's efforts are concentrated in the area of collaborative research, with a focus on building capacity in Egypt. The fund's activities are designed to promote the development of scientific and technological capabilities in Egypt, with a goal of improving the country's economic and social development. The joint fund's work is closely aligned with the goals of the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID) and the Egyptian government. The joint fund's activities are overseen by the NAS, with STDF providing administrative support. The fund's operations are governed by a cooperative agreement between the NAS and STDF, which outlines the terms and conditions of the partnership. The joint fund's activities are subject to regular review and evaluation, with a focus on ensuring that the fund's goals and objectives are being met.