News
Ambassador Quarrey announces new UK-Israel water research projects
Just a week after taking office, UK Ambassador to Israel David Quarrey yesterday unveiled three new schemes enabling British and Israeli scientists to collaborate more closely on water research.
Quarrey announced the new initiatives while visiting Tel Aviv University and the Weizmann Institute of Science. The Department for Business, Innovation and Skills has awarded £200,000 for a pilot programme called the Trilateral Water Scheme, which under the auspices of the British Council will promote joint research among academics from Britain, Israel and other Middle Easter countries. The UK Embassy said that the scheme will “provide opportunities for world-class researchers in water science, technology, and policy from the UK and the Middle East to work together.”
Two other joint research funds were also announced. The UK-Israel Researcher Links Fellowships in water science will allow early career water sciences researchers in the UK and Israel to form partnerships. Meanwhile, the UK-Israel Science and Innovation Lectureship Grants in water science will allow established scientists to work together more easily.
Quarrey commented, “I’m delighted that UK scientists will now be able to deepen their cooperation in water research with Israeli counterparts … The work of Israeli research institutions … continues to improve the lives of those in water-poor countries. The UK, with its cutting-edge research facilities and vibrant scientific community, is determined to contribute to this effort with the cluster of new research initiatives we announced today.”
Alan Gemmell, the British Council Israel Director said, “Our new fund will bring researchers from different countries and disciplines together – across natural and social sciences as well the UK and the Middle East – to tackle one of our most urgent problems and identify new approaches for some of the world’s most water poor societies.”
During the past several years, UK-Israel bilateral relations have grown impressively in numerous fields including science, health and education. Meanwhile, UK-Israel trade has grown rapidly in recent years and is currently worth in excess of £4.5 billion.