The UAE Research Programme for Rain Enhancement Science recently hosted the 17th virtual seminar of its “Rain Enhancement Platform” series, titled “From Theory to Application: Insights from the Recipients of the Sixth Cycle Grant and Perspectives for the Next Phase.” This event gathered experts in the field to discuss advancements in rain enhancement research and future initiatives.
Prominent speakers included Professor Linda Zhu from the University of Victoria, Australia, and Dr. Oliver Branch, a senior researcher at the Institute of Physics and Meteorology at the University of Hohenheim in Germany. The session was skillfully moderated by Dr. Dion Terblanche, a member of the strategic advisory committee for the programme.
During the seminar, speakers outlined their research projects funded by the UAE Programme, highlighting significant preliminary outcomes and sharing experiences learned from international activities, including recent promotional tours conducted in Australia and Germany.
Dr. Abdullah Al Mandous, President of the World Meteorological Organisation and Director of the National Centre of Meteorology, noted, “Through our pioneering initiatives, particularly the UAE Research Programme for Rain Enhancement Science and the Rain Enhancement Platform seminar series, we are committed to enhancing knowledge exchange, fostering scientific innovation, and accelerating the development of practical solutions to support water security and advance adaptation to the impacts of climate change at both national and global levels.”
Dr. Ahmed Al Kamali, Acting Director of the UAE Research Programme for Rain Enhancement Science and Head of Cloud Seeding Operations at the National Centre of Meteorology, added, “The contributions of Professor Linda Zhu and Dr. Oliver Branch, along with Dr. Dion Terblanche’s expertise shared during this seminar, reflect the advanced level of research supported by the programme and its growing impact on the international scientific community.”
Professor Linda Zhu presented her research on “AI-Driven Development and Enhancement of Cold Cloud Seeding Materials,” aimed at improving the efficiency of rain enhancement materials through advanced nanotechnology, laboratory experiments, and artificial intelligence. The project focuses on enhancing the understanding of how to stimulate ice crystal formation within clouds to develop more effective rain enhancement techniques.
Conversely, Dr. Oliver Branch discussed his project, “Enhancing Rainfall through Land Cover and Terrain Modification (Rainland),” which investigates the influence of surface properties on atmospheric processes and rainfall patterns. His presentation highlighted the potential of utilizing various natural features and land uses, such as sand dunes and solar energy stations, to impact weather conditions and consequently increase rainfall opportunities, thereby supporting sustainable water resource management across diverse climate environments.
The seminar concluded with a set of practical guidelines for researchers wishing to apply for the next cycle of the programme. These included fundamental principles for preparing integrated research proposals, the importance of forming effective scientific partnerships, and insights into key factors that enhance the likelihood of success for grant applications.