Become a Board Member

Join the distinguished scientists, researchers, and prominent personalities who guide ASTF's mission to advance science and technology across the Arab world.

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What is Board Membership?

The Board of Directors is the body responsible for managing the Foundation's affairs and organizing its general work. It comprises distinguished scientists, researchers, and prominent personalities active in business and fields connected to science and technology.

The Arab Science & Technology Foundation was established by Decree Law No. 26 of 2000, issued by His Highness Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Muhammad Al Qasimi, Member of the Supreme Council of the UAE and Ruler of Sharjah. Operating for nearly 25 years, the Foundation promotes science and technology across the Arab world through research, development, and innovation initiatives.

7-13

Board Members

(including chairman)

Year Term

One renewal permitted

Arab Regions

Geographic balance

25%

Annual Rotation

~1/4 rotate yearly

Board Composition

The board aims to balance multiple dimensions of diversity and expertise

Composition Principles

The organization considers these standards when forming the board:

Balance of Representation: Appropriate balance between representing scientists from inside and outside the Arab world
Scientific Diversity: Diversity across scientific specializations and disciplines
Geographic Coverage: Representation across all Arab geographic regions
Periodic Rotation: Ensuring periodic membership rotation to bring fresh perspectives
Gender Inclusion: Adequate female representation on the board
Youth Participation: Inclusion of young scientists and researchers

Board Authority & Responsibilities

The Board holds comprehensive governance power over the Foundation

Strategic Planning

Setting strategic plans, programs, and long-term direction for the Foundation

Financial Management

Approving budgets, financial regulations, and managing investments

Donations & Funding

Accepting donations without compromising nonprofit principles

Committee Formation

Establishing specialized committees for various Foundation activities

Grants & Awards

Approving research grants, fellowships, and recognition awards

Member Selection

Selecting new board members and leadership positions

Mini Board

The Board of Directors establishes a "Mini Board" consisting of 3-5 members, including the chairman, delegated to exercise some of the board's powers during the intervals between its regular meetings to handle urgent matters requiring quick decisions, and also to support the chairman in managing the Foundation's daily affairs when necessary.

Member Qualifications

Seven key qualifications that guide our selection process

Passion for the Mission

Board members should demonstrate genuine enthusiasm for carrying the organization's objectives and work diligently to achieve them. A deep commitment to advancing science and technology in the Arab world is essential.

Experience & Skills

Candidates need expertise in sciences, technology, or related fields, including financial, legal, and strategic competencies. A diverse skill set enhances the board's collective capability.

Ethical Integrity

Members must maintain high moral standards, as trust and transparency are critical elements for effective governance. Integrity in all dealings is non-negotiable.

Strategic Vision

The ability to think strategically, offer innovative ideas, and help guide the institution toward fulfilling its goals and purpose. Forward-thinking perspective is valued.

Collaborative Spirit

Candidates should possess teamwork capabilities, work effectively with others, listen actively, and build consensus. The ability to collaborate across diverse backgrounds is essential.

Diversity of Perspective

The board benefits from members with varied skills, backgrounds, and perspectives, which enhances decision-making quality and brings fresh viewpoints to discussions.

Time Commitment

Members must dedicate sufficient time to board duties, attend meetings consistently, participate in committees, and maintain ongoing engagement with organizational activities. Active participation is expected throughout the term.

Basic Conditions for Candidacy

Fundamental requirements that all candidates must meet

Arab Nationality or Origin

Candidate must be of Arab nationality or of Arab origin from any Arab country.

Science & Technology Connection

Demonstrated involvement in science or technology through specialization, employment, research, or business activities in related fields.

Track Record of Excellence

Achievements and accomplishments that demonstrate excellence and distinction in their field of specialization.

Integrity & Good Reputation

Must possess integrity in work performance, good conduct, and positive reputation in their professional and personal life.

Volunteer Commitment

Willingness and capacity to volunteer in serving the Foundation and working toward achieving its established objectives.

No Conflicts or Harmful Associations

Cannot have associations with entities or work that harmed Arab nations or communities, nor collaborated with parties pursuing such goals.

Geographic Representation

Board seats are allocated across four Arab regions to ensure balanced representation

Arabian Peninsula & Yemen

United Arab Emirates, Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, Qatar, Bahrain, Oman, Yemen

Levant & Euphrates Valley

Jordan, Lebanon, Syria, Iraq, Palestine

Nile Valley & Horn of Africa

Egypt, Sudan, Somalia, Djibouti, Comoros

Maghreb

Morocco, Algeria, Tunisia, Libya, Mauritania

Note: The Board may modify this distribution as needed based on institutional requirements.

Selection Process

A comprehensive two-phase process overseen by the Central Nomination Committee

Phase 1: Candidate List Development

The Central Nomination Committee oversees building the candidate roster through a structured process:

Current Structure Review
In cooperation with the Board of Directors, the committee reviews the current composition of the council, membership rotation, and characteristics required to ensure institutional effectiveness and identify expertise gaps.
Public Announcement
The committee announces the opening of nominations with specified member qualifications, eligibility criteria, and application deadlines.
Application Review & Interviews
Following candidate identification, the committee may conduct a series of interviews to assess each candidate's commitment and understanding of the Foundation's objectives. Candidates present their vision for contributing to board operations during these conversations.
Recommended List
The committee produces a final nominee recommendation with supporting documentation, which the board may accept fully or return for further review.

Phase 2: Formal Election

New members are elected through secret ballot voting by current board members during the annual board meeting.

Two months (January through February) are allocated for board members to review applications and form their assessments
Board members study all candidate files and supporting documentation
Election follows procedures outlined in the Foundation's bylaws
Newly elected members are announced following the regular board meeting (typically March-May)

Annual Timeline

The nomination and selection cycle follows this schedule each year

October 14

Announcement Opening

Official announcement of nomination opening with eligibility criteria and requirements

Oct 15 - Nov 30

Application Period

Candidates submit their applications via the official nomination form with all required documentation

December 30

Review Completion

Committee completes application review, screening, and initial evaluation of all candidates

January 6

Candidate Discussion

Discussion of candidates with the Compact Council for preliminary assessment

January 15

Final Recommendations

Final recommendations and candidate list submitted with all supporting documents

Jan - Feb

Board Review Period

Board members study all applicant files and form their individual assessments before voting

March - May

Election & Announcement

Secret ballot voting during regular board meeting, followed by public announcement of newly elected members

Candidate Commitments

Upon selection, board members pledge to fulfill these binding obligations

Service & Mission Adoption

Candidates must demonstrate full readiness to serve the Foundation and adopt its mission. This includes dedicating necessary time and effort to board responsibilities throughout the membership term.

Promotion & Advocacy

Nominees pledge to actively promote the organization, defend its objectives, leverage its name across their activities for marketing purposes, and work to expand its reach and reputation. This includes facilitating fundraising projects and building relationships with donor entities.

Confidentiality Obligation

Candidates commit to maintaining complete confidentiality regarding all decisions, data, information, and documents of all types encountered during board service. This obligation extends for three full years after membership ends.

Strategic Proposal Requirement

Each candidate must submit a concrete proposal for a vision or initiative they intend to implement during their tenure. The submission should present an implementable project or program aligned with the Foundation's established purposes and interests.

Volunteer Service: Board members serve without payment. The Foundation covers attendance expenses for meetings and official activities.

Application Requirements

Information and documents you need to prepare before applying

Required Information

Before completing the application form, prepare the following:

Personal Data

Full name (Arabic and English)
Arab country of origin/citizenship
Other nationalities (if applicable)
Current residence country
Current address
Email address
Phone number

Professional Information

Current job title
Current employer/institution
Scientific/technological specialization
Highest educational degree
Work experience in science/technology
Curriculum Vitae (CV)

Achievements & Activities

Professional Accomplishments: Summary of achievements and projects completed in science/technology fields
Volunteer Activities: Record of voluntary and development activities participation history
Community Service: Description of valuable, unique initiatives for community service

Essay Questions

The application includes several essay questions that you should prepare thoughtful responses for:

"Why do you deserve selection for board membership?"
Explain your qualifications, experience, and what makes you a strong candidate.
Description of unique initiatives for community service
Share examples of valuable contributions you've made to your community or field.
Vision for programs during your board tenure
Present your proposed project or program to be implemented, including potential funding strategies.
Demonstration of leadership and initiative capabilities
Provide examples that showcase your leadership skills and ability to take initiative.

Apply for Board Membership

Ready to contribute to the advancement of science and technology in the Arab world? Submit your nomination during the open application period (October 15 - November 30).

Submit Application

Board Regulations (PDF - Arabic)

Applications are accepted annually from October 15 to November 30

Membership Terms

Important information about board membership duration and renewal

Term Duration

Members serve four-year terms. The Board selects replacements for vacant positions, also for four-year terms.

Renewal

One additional renewal term is permitted after completing the initial four-year term, for a maximum of eight years total.

Annual Rotation

Approximately one-quarter of members rotate annually through resignation or election completion, ensuring continuous renewal.

Compensation

Members serve voluntarily without payment. The Foundation covers attendance expenses for meetings and official activities.

Current Board Members

Meet the distinguished scientists and leaders currently serving on ASTF's Board of Directors, guiding the Foundation's mission and programs.

View Board Members

ASTF Structure

Learn more about ASTF's organizational framework, three-tier governance, and how the Board fits into the Foundation's structure.

View Structure

Questions?

If you have questions about the board nomination process or need additional information, please contact the Central Nomination Committee.