Intelligent CIO Middle East Issue 110 | Page 55

CASE STUDY

The Technology Innovation Institute is a leading global scientific research centre dedicated to the development of cutting-edge technologies to solve society ’ s greatest challenges today and in the future . The institute , headed by CEO Dr Najwa Aaraj , was founded in May 2020 and serves as the applied research pillar of Abu Dhabi ’ s Advanced Technology Research Council , which oversees technology research in Abu Dhabi .

Over the past four years , the institute has expanded its projects in the field of AI with noteworthy achievements such as the launch of Falcon , the UAE ’ s first Generative AI Large Language Model , the establishment of the Falcon Foundation for open sourcing of Generative AI models and the development of the Arab World ’ s first Quantum Qubit .
Leadership role
Teams of international scientists and researchers work across ten research centres at Technology Innovation Institute focused on advanced materials , autonomous robotics , cryptography , AI and digital science , directed energy , quantum , secure systems , propulsion and space , biotechnology , and renewable and sustainable energy . In addition to its own research , Technology Innovation Institute partners with universities , research institutions and industry partners from all over the world .
Dr Chaouki Kasmi oversees Technology Innovation Institute ’ s research centres by ensuring that their efforts align with the Institute ’ s broader mission . This includes setting clear objectives for each centre , fostering cross-centre collaboration , and implementing structures that enhance productivity and creativity .
He plays a hands-on role in innovation initiatives by introducing frameworks like open innovation challenges that encourage researchers to creatively address real-world problems . Regularly reviewing progress , facilitating strategic partnerships , and encouraging interdisciplinary work are some of the ways he ensures productivity and impactful outcomes .
As Chief Innovation Officer at the Technology Innovation Institute , Dr Kasmi fosters a collaborative environment for cutting-edge research and innovative solutions . He oversees research teams , defines strategic priorities , and aligns initiatives with national and global technology goals .
Dr Kasmi leads open innovation efforts , such as micro and crowd challenges , to inspire creativity and problem-solving . He finds fulfilment in transforming ideas into impactful solutions and supporting researchers in pioneering technologies . He is dedicated to balancing immediate innovation needs with long-term goals and translating foundational research into practical applications .
Dr Kasmi ’ s responsibility lies in fostering collaboration , talent development , and infrastructure readiness to advance progress across the research centres . Ensuring alignment of projects with strategic objectives , Dr Kasmi provides resources , support , and cross-disciplinary expertise to drive innovation .
Driving innovation
Research , productivity , and innovation across Technology Innovation Institute ’ s research centres are measured using key metrics such as research output , including publications and patents , and progress against project milestones . Real-world impact is assessed through commercialisation , application rates , and the success of transitioning technologies from lab
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