NYU Abu Dhabi Institute

How do we understand the minds of others? This talk explores the foundations of "commonsense psychology" by comparing how infants, adults, and AI systems infer intentions from actions alone. By pitting human intuition against state-of-the-art neural networks, this work tackles foundational debates across psychology, philosophy, and computer science — revealing the origins of intelligence, the divide between natural and artificial minds, and what it will take to build truly human-like, trustworthy AI. Speaker Moira R. Dillon, Assistant Professor of Psychology, NYU

The talk explores the historical relationships that exist between the development and the evolution of embryos. What is the link between our developmental origin as individuals (a fertilized egg), on the one hand, and our evolutionary origin as a group of individuals (an ancestral population), on the other hand? And these embryos, are they really extraordinary constructions relying on carefully accumulated, multiple sets of precisely encoded instructions or instead, could they be the mere and only obligatory result of a chaotic program haphazardly built during the past hundreds million years? Speaker Denis Duboule, Professor of Genetics and Chair of Evolution of Development and Genomes, Collège de France, Paris Organized by Claude Desplan, Silver Professor of Biology and Neuroscience, Department of Biology, NYU

Engineering a solution is one thing; making it work in a high-stakes clinical environment is another. This panel discussion features the minds who build the tech and the hands that use it. Leading bioengineers and frontline clinicians from NYU, NYU Abu Dhabi, the University of Michigan and the University of Maine deconstruct the challenges of medical device innovation. The topics include glaucoma and other chronic diseases such as metabolic, cardiovascular, and neurologic diseases. The discussion also touches on AI, robotics, and wearable technology to improve patient care. Panel Members Andreas Hielscher, Professor of of Biomedical Engineering, NYU Tandon School of Engineering Shy Shoham, Professor of Neuroscience and Ophthalmology, NYU School of Medicine and Tech4Health Giovanna Guidoboni, Professor of Electrical and Computer Engineering and Dean of Engineering and Computing, University of Maine Manjool Shah, Clinical Associate Professor of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences and Associate Chair of Innovation, University of Michigan Sefy Paulose Joshi, Assistant Professor of Ophthalmology, NYU Langone Health Moderated by Yong-Ak (Rafael) Song, Professor of Mechanical Engineering and Bioengineering and 19 Washington Square North Faculty Fellow, NYUAD

The Volatility and Risk Institute (VRI) explores the interplay between risks that shape our global economy. In this session, VRI Co-Directors Robert Engle and Richard Berner explain how the VRI measures complex global risks, focusing on the financial challenges posed by climate change and the effects of geopolitical risks on financial stability. As the VRI celebrates its recent expansion to NYU Abu Dhabi, this talk offers a unique look into how leading experts track systemic vulnerabilities and the future of global risk research. Speaker Richard Berner, Co-Director, The Volatility and Risk Institute and Clinical Professor Emeritus of Finance and Professor of Management Practice, NYU Stern School of Business

The FIFA World Cup 2026 represents a pivotal moment in the globalization of sport, as North America prepares for a tournament of unprecedented scale. This panel investigates the sociopolitical and structural dimensions of hosting a cross-continental mega-event. Panelists will discuss the intersection of international sports diplomacy, the evolution of regional athletic identity, and the challenges inherent in global tournament expansion. By examining the synergy between sports governance, media representation, and local community engagement, the discussion situates the 2026 World Cup within a broader discourse on the role of professional club development and sport in 21st-century global society. Speakers Sophia Cai, White House Reporter, Politico Bruce Revman, Co-Host City Manager, FIFA World Cup 2026 NYNJ Host Committee Irv Smalls Jr., President, FC HARLEM Moderated by Paul C. Hardart, Distinguished Clinical Professor and Director, Entertainment, Media and Technology Program and Academic Director, Berkley Center for Entrepreneurship, NYU Stern School of Business In collaboration with Preston Robert Tisch Institute for Global Sport, NYU School of Professional Studies

This talk focuses on the work of Dorothy Berry, author of The House Archives Built and Other Thoughts on Black Archival Possibilities (We Here Press, 2025), which is currently sold out in its third printing since being published in October 2025. Berry discusses family materials offered up to “the altar of higher learning” and struggles for access, accuracy, and locating joy in family photographs stewarded by institutional archives. Speaker Dorothy Berry, Archivist and Writer In conversation with Laylah Amatullah Barrayn, Documentary Photographer, Writer and Curator; Professor of Photography, Rutgers University–Newark Organized by Gregory Pardlo, Professor of Literature and Creative Writing and 19 Washington Square North Faculty Fellow, NYUAD Montana Ray, Clinical Assistant Professor of Liberal Studies, NYU; 19 Washington Square North Faculty Fellow, NYUAD In collaboration with 19 Washington Square North Faculty Fellows Program

What is African theatre today? Bob Vorlicky and Judy Miller have some answers to that question through their work as editors and translators of contemporary African plays. Vorlicky brings to light the otherwise neglected work of eight African women playwrights from seven different countries and linguistic spheres. He explores the politics of translating indigenous languages into English. Miller surveys exemplary works of Francophone African authors from the immediate post-colonial period to the present. She also addresses the difficulties of translating these works for the American stage. Speakers Robert H. Vorlicky, Author, “Speaking Our Selves: New Plays by African Women” (Ann Arbor: University of Michigan Press, 2025); Professor of Theatre, NYUAD and Tisch School of the Arts, NYU Judith G. Miller, Author, “Contemporary Francophone African Plays: An Anthology” (Lewisburg: Bucknell University Press, 2024); Former Dean of Arts and Humanities, NYUAD; Professor of French Literature, NYU In conversation with Adam Ashraf Elsayigh, Playwright; NYUAD alumnus

We assume laws of nature govern the universe, but how exactly do abstract laws make concrete objects move? This talk explores three rival philosophical models and their surprising consequences. Does the past actually produce the future? Can laws exist without affecting anything? The answers challenge our basic intuitions about time, matter, and why nature behaves predictably. Speaker Mario Hubert, Assistant Professor of Philosophy, Ludwig-Maximilians University Munich

By 2050, 70% of the world will live in cities, and those cities will be powered by the data centers we build today. Far from being isolated in the periphery, 97.5% of US data centers are hidden in plain sight within urban centers, driven primarily by electricity-grid capacity. Drawing on research from the recently launched Urban Institute at NYU Tandon, Professor Maurizio Porfiri demonstrates how we can leverage data science and AI to address these complex urban interdependencies—from climate change and grid stability to the needs of aging populations and economic volatility. This talk reveals how urban science is being used to safeguard grid stability and shape the resilient cities of tomorrow. Speaker Maurizio Porfiri, Director, NYU Urban Institute

This conversation explores a question that defines both professional and personal life: how to live with intention and purpose. Drawing on her work as a scholar, educator, and three-time New York Times–Bestselling Author, Suzy Welch introduces the Becoming You methodology, emphasizing the importance of surfacing core values and cultivating self-awareness in navigating contemporary careers. In conversation with Rob Salomon, Welch reflects on leadership, decision-making, and the pursuit of clarity in an increasingly complex professional landscape. Speaker Suzy Welch, New York Times Best-Selling Author; Professor of Management Practice, NYU Stern In conversation with Robert Salomon, Dean, Stern at NYU Abu Dhabi; Professor of International Management, NYU Stern School of Business; NEC Faculty Fellow, NYU Stern School of Business In collaboration with Stern at NYUAD

For nearly two million years, humans lived as mobile hunters and gatherers. Around 15,000 years ago, communities in the Fertile Crescent began to settle, and by 10,000 years ago, agriculture emerged. The first cities and states emerged around 5,000 years ago. Originating in the Middle East and later spreading worldwide, this transformation reshaped human societies. This talk examines how and why humans made this shift—and asks whether the rise of civilization ultimately improved human well-being. Speaker Robert Allen, Global Distinguished Professor of Economic History, NYUAD

This roundtable brings together scholars in cognition and neuroscience from around the world to examine the contributions, challenges, and emerging opportunities for women in the field. While women continue to advance major discoveries and shape our understanding of the brain, they remain underrepresented in some areas, particularly in senior and leadership roles. Through research insights and personal reflections, the panel considers progress to date, the barriers that persist, and how the discipline can better support diverse talent and perspectives. Speakers Yanchao Bi, Professor, School of Psychological and Cognitive Sciences, Peking University Ida Gobbini, Professor of Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Bologna Angelika Lingnau, Professor of Cognitive Neuroscience, University of Regensburg Liuba Papeo, Research Director, CNRS; Director, Cognitive Neuropsychology and Development Team, Institute of Cognitive Sciences Marc Jeannerod; Marie Curie Fellow Meera AlKaabi, Acting President, Executive Director of Academic Affairs, National Academy for Childhood Development; Associate Professor of Linguistics, UAEU Moderated by Claudine Habak, Associate Professor of Psychology and Cognitive Neuroscience, Emirates College for Advanced Education (ECAE)

This talk examines how artworks operate across different contexts, from museums and galleries to public space and digital circulation. Drawing on over fifteen years of practice, artist Bahia Shehab reflects on how audience engagement shifts when art is encountered within institutional settings versus when it is publicly displayed and exposed to everyday life. Through examples from projects realized in cities such as New York, Istanbul, Marrakesh, and Hawaii, the talk considers how artworks travel, remain relevant across geographies, and are shaped by social media—particularly in regions where cultural infrastructure is limited. Speaker Bahia Shehab, Professor of Practice, Arts, Founding Director, TypeLab@AUC, AUC

Artificial intelligence is rapidly reshaping how societies address climate change, resource management, and inclusive growth. This event brings together a keynote address and a panel discussion to examine how AI-driven innovations in technology and finance can advance sustainable development. Designed for a broad audience that includes policymakers, business leaders, and the general public, the program offers a clear and timely overview of how data, automation, and intelligent systems are influencing decision-making and long-term sustainability strategies across sectors. Speakers Harald Freissmuth, CEO, Group & Start-Ups; Lecturer, Executive Education for Sustainability, NYUAD Amro Zakaria, Director, Kyoto Network; CEO, Madarik Ventures Christen Bear, CEO, Bear Strategies Moderated by Yassin Yassin, CPA, FCA, MBA, Director and Co-Chair, Florida Accounting & Consulting Services, AmCham Banking & Finance Working Group In collaboration with Office of Sustainability and Stewardship, NYUAD American Chamber of Commerce Abu Dhabi

Nearly one-third of the world's population lacks reliable access to safe water or sanitation, with serious consequences for health, education, and economic opportunity. This talk examines the global water crisis through the lenses of policy, finance, and development, asking why access remains uneven despite available solutions. Drawing on the experience of Water.org, founded in 2009 by Matt Damon and Gary White, the discussion explores financial innovation and cross-sector partnerships as pathways to expanding access. Looking ahead to the 2026 UN Water Conference, the talk considers long-term, scalable approaches to improving public health, fairness, and shared prosperity worldwide. Speakers Gary White, Co-founder and CEO, Water.org Moderated by Gareth Wynn, Chief Communications Officer, TAQA

The origin of the most energetic particles in the Universe—known as ultrahigh energy cosmic rays (UHECRs)—is one of astrophysics' most perplexling mysteries. These particles are incredibly rare and powerful, traveling across space with energies far beyond what humans can generate on Earth. In this talk, the speaker presents a groundbreaking theory that traces the source of UHECRs to the merger of two neutron stars to form a black hole—cosmic events so extreme they create precious elements like gold and platinum and produce gravitational waves recently detected for the first time. Could the Universe's most powerful particles be made of the same materials we treasure on Earth? This lecture explores the cutting-edge science behind a bold new answer to a decades-old question. Speaker Glennys Farrar, Professor of Physics, Silver Professor, NYU

Some piano music resists memory, even for accomplished performers. For more than a century, post-tonal works have challenged musicians without offering clear strategies for learning and recall. This lecture-recital introduces Conceptual Simplification, a new approach developed through recent doctoral research that rethinks how complex music can be understood and memorised. Drawing on ideas from mathematics and computer science, the method offers fresh perspectives on musical structure and memory. Live piano performances accompany the talk, bringing these ideas vividly to life. Speaker Laura Farré Rozada, Award winning pianist “American Classical Young Musician Award"; Associate Professor, Polytechnic University of Catalonia; Visiting Professor, Catalonia College of Music

In this talk, the speaker will explore a series of objects that highlight the tension between two divergent ways of understanding the Indian Ocean: as a maritime thoroughfare shaped by the forces of trade and intrepid merchants, and as a deep, watery, and populated space brought into focus by the urgencies of rising ecological devastation. The talk discusses how these competing frameworks continue to shape oceanic thinking today. Speaker Nancy Um, Associate Director for Research and Knowledge Creation, Getty Research Institute

Nobel Laureate Abhijit Banerjee revisits the central ideas of his seminal work Poor Economics, co-authored with Esther Duflo, fifteen years after its publication. In this talk, Professor Banerjee reflects on what we've learned about poverty alleviation from a decade and a half of field experiments, policy interventions, and global upheavals. From the evolution of evidence-based development policy to the impact of new crises such as COVID-19 and climate change, this session will provide a thought-provoking look at the shifting landscape of poverty research—and what the future may hold. Speaker Abhijit V. Banerjee, Ford Foundation International Professor of Economics, MIT; Co‑Founder & Director, Abdul Latif Jameel Poverty Action Lab (J‑PAL); Nobel Laureate in Economic Sciences (2019) In conversation with Tishani Doshi, Visiting Associate Professor of Practice, Literature and Creative Writing, NYUAD

This talk explores the tensions between infinite economic growth and the planet's finite resources, drawing on Professor Anders Levermann's groundbreaking work in climate science and economics. The speaker will present innovative approaches to reconciling climate protection with continued development, offering bold ideas for sustainable prosperity. Bridging scientific insight, economic theory, and societal responsibility, the talk offers critical perspectives for those seeking solutions to the climate crisis at the intersection of environment and economy. Speaker Anders Levermann, Professor of the Dynamics of the Climate System, Institute of Physics and Astrophysics, University of Potsdam In collaboration with Climate Talks Office of Sustainability and Stewardship, NYUAD

In this talk, the speaker will explore the future of health care through the lens of Tissue Engineering, Regenerative Medicine, and Precision Medicine. These approaches offer promising therapies for a wide range of diseases and traumas, while also enabling the development of advanced 3D disease models—including for cancer—that can reduce reliance on animal testing. The speaker will discuss the role of innovative materials, stem cell integration, and cutting-edge processing techniques in creating bioresponsive therapies, implants, and research models. Drawing on groundbreaking work by the 3B's Research Group, the talk highlights key breakthroughs at the intersection of biology and engineering. Speaker Rui L. Reis, Professor of Tissue Engineering, Regenerative Medicine and Stem Cells, University of Minho

Although women still hold only about 21% of ambassadorial posts worldwide, recent years have seen notable progress. This panel brings together senior officials, leading practitioners, and international scholars to examine women's leadership in diplomacy, foreign affairs, and multilateral organizations. Drawing on AGDA's Women in Diplomacy Index and LSE/IDEAS's Strengthening the Representation of Women in Diplomacy Report, the discussion will explore persistent gender disparities, variations across countries and regions, and the impact of structural reforms. Panelists will also share professional experiences and policy solutions to advance women's leadership and shape a more accessible and representative global diplomatic landscape. Speakers Karen Smith, Professor of International Relations, London School of Economics and Political Science Nouf Al Hamly, Advanced Sciences and Technology Advisor, UAE Ministry of Foreign Affairs Sara Chehab, Acting Graduate Programmes Director & Senior Research Fellow, Anwar Gargash Diplomatic Academy Moderated by Henriette Mueller, Assistant Professor of Gender, Governance and Society, NYUAD Casted by Ouided Bouchamaoui, Nobel Laureate (2015) and Director of the Art & Humanities Institute for Peace, NYUAD

Pressure Cooker, curated by Azza Aboualam, 2025 National Pavilion UAE Curator, Assistant Professor at Zayed University, and Co-Founder of Holesum Studio, explores the intersection of architecture and food production in the UAE, posing the important question: Using the UAE as a case study: How can architecture be mobilized for greater food security? Her research and curatorial process highlight how architecture can address critical global challenges, particularly in the intersection of sustainability and food systems. Join us for a talk with Aboualam on Pressure Cooker for the UAE's participation at 19th International Architecture Exhibition at La Biennale di Venezia. Speaker Azza Aboualam, Assistant Professor at Zayed University, Co-founder & Director of Research at Holesum Studio, and 2025 National Pavilion UAE Curator In collaboration with NYUAD Art Gallery National Pavilion UAE

This talk explores the intersection of Japanese craftsmanship (monotsukuri), purpose-driven living (ikigai), and entrepreneurial spirit in the age of digital fabrication. Dr. Naoki Hamanaka will share his journey of using additive manufacturing—specifically 3D printing—to design and produce affordable, customized assistive devices that enhance quality of life. Drawing on real-world examples, he will illustrate how technology can embody empathy, creativity, and social impact, inspiring a new generation of engineers and innovators to pursue entrepreneurship with purpose and soul. Speaker Naoki Hamanaka, Founder of FabLab Shinagawa, and Representative of Hamanaka Design Studio

This conversation among African playwrights and translators focuses on the challenges when translating dramatic texts by African writers into English or French. What is lost (and/or gained) when translating a text's original language into another language? Why is translation important (or not) in 21st-century global culture? What are the geopolitical, linguistic, and ethical issues raised by translating African works from their original languages into English or French? Panel Members Hope Azeda, Playwright and Director, Mashirika Performing Arts; Festival Curator, Ubumuntu Arts Festival Judith G. Miller, Professor of French Literature, Thought and Culture, NYU Wole  Soyinka, Wole Soyinka, Arts Professor of Theater, NYUAD; Nobel Laureate in Literature (1986) Moderated by Robert Vorlicky, Associate Professor of Drama, Tisch School of the Arts, NYU; Former Visiting Professor of Theater, NYUAD

The African continent consists of 54 countries. This conversation among African theater practitioners and scholars, necessarily diverse by expertise, engages a range of questions to understand better the term theater(s), the evolution of theaters among African countries, and this contemporary moment in Africa's theaters. Who is making theater today in Africa—who's writing, who's producing, who attends? What kinds of theaters are being created? What prevalent concerns are being written, produced, and/or published in 21st -century African theaters? What are the challenges of producing theater on the continent? In what ways do theaters play a role in the lives of contemporary Africans? Panel Members Hope Azeda, Playwright and Director, Mashirika Performing Arts; Festival Curator, Ubumuntu Arts Festival Judith G. Miller, Professor of French Literature, Thought and Culture, NYU Wole  Soyinka, Wole Soyinka, Arts Professor of Theater, NYUAD; Nobel Laureate in Literature (1986) Opening Remarks Abhishek Majumdar, Program Head, Theater; Arts Professor of Theater, NYUAD Moderated by Robert Vorlicky, Associate Professor of Drama, Tisch School of the Arts, NYU; Former Visiting Professor of Theater, NYUAD

Part of "Luminaries of Science" series The talk describes how research using the fruit fly Drosophila revealed the make-up of the circadian clock. The first clock gene to be detected in any organism, named “period”, was physically isolated by Young in 1984 and screens in his laboratory subsequently identified five additional genes that are each essential for production of circadian rhythms. Interactions among these genes, and their proteins, contribute to a network of molecular oscillations within single cells throughout the body and allow circadian rhythms to align with environmental day/night cycles. Most of the clock genes discovered by Young and his colleagues in Drosophila are also central to the circadian pathways of humans where they promote rhythmic expression of roughly half our genes. Speaker Michael Young, Richard and Jeanne Fisher Professor and Head of the Laboratory of Genetics, The Rockefeller University Organized by Claude Desplan, Silver Professor of Biology and Neuroscience, Department of Biology, NYU

This conversation between Abhishek Majumdar and Ruben Polendo examines the making and teaching of theater in a global context. The talk centers around two of Majumdar's recently published books, “Theatre across borders” and “Collected Plays" by Bloomsbury International. Both Ruben Polendo and Majumdar have spent several years, training and working in global contexts and this dialogue is about their learnings as practitioners and pedagogues. Speakers Abhishek Majumdar, Arts Professor and Program Head of Theater, NYUAD; Playwright, Director, and Artistic Director, Nalanda Arts Studio Bangalore Rubén Polendo, Dean, Tisch School of the Arts and Arts Professor, NYU; Global Professor, NYUAD; Founding Artistic Director, Theater Mitu

What does it mean to belong — and how does our sense of identity unite or divide us? Group cooperation is one of the most remarkable features of human nature, enabling people to build teams, communities, and nations. Yet the same psychological forces that bind us together can also drive conflict and polarization. In this talk, I explain how our social identities — the groups we feel part of — shape our thoughts, emotions, and actions. Drawing on insights from social psychology and cognitive science, I will reveal how understanding identity can help us understand and address some of today's greatest challenges, including political division, misinformation, climate change, and threats to democracy. Ultimately, The Power of Us shows how we can harness our shared identities to foster cooperation, strengthen communities, and build a more connected world. Speaker Jay Van Bavel, Professor of Psychology and Director of the Center for Conflict & Cooperation, NYU

This event is related to 19 Washington Square North's Faculty Fellows Program. The apple tree (Malus domestica) is one of the world's most iconic fruit crops, with profound cultural, economic, and ecological significance. Yet many questions remain about its origins, its domestication history, and its ability to withstand the challenges of climate change. Recent advances in population genomics have revealed that cultivated apples carry a complex legacy shaped by multiple wild relatives, human selection, and historical events across Eurasia. At the same time, wild apple species — the genetic reservoirs for future resilience — are increasingly endangered, particularly in Europe. This talk explores how combining genomic data, ecological experiments, and conservation initiatives can help us understand both the past and the future of apples. By linking evolutionary history to applied challenges, these approaches highlight new opportunities for breeding and conservation, and point the way towards climate-resilient apples. More broadly, they demonstrate how research at the intersection of genomics and ecology can inform climate-resilient agriculture and biodiversity conservation. Speaker Amandine Cornille, Associate Professor, Division of Science and 19 Washington Square North Faculty Fellow, NYUAD In collaboration with NYU Abu Dhabi Institute

Since the 2008-2009 financial crisis and the Occupy movements around the globe, artists have increasingly turned to new models of artistic production and community engagement, expanding their work beyond the walls of theaters and museums and into situated social and ecological practices. Katia Arfara's new book, Curating the Commons. Socially Engaged Public Art, offers an in-depth study on performance-centered artworks she curated in unexpected urban spaces in Greece during the austerity years, complicating notions of memory, agency, mobility, and belonging. This roundtable explores how the book contributes to the larger effort to craft human and other-than-human narratives and repair shattered urbanities in response to the multifaceted crises of our time. Speakers Katia Arfara, Author, "Curating the Commons. Socially Engaged Public Art" (University of Michigan Press, 2025); Assistant Professor of Theater and Performance Studies, NYUAD Peter Eckersall, Sidney E. Cohn Professor in Theatre, PhD Program in Theatre and Performance, The Graduate Center CUNY Edward Ziter, Professor of Theatre Studies, Department of Undergraduate Drama Tisch School of the Arts, NYU

This presentation briefly recaps the emergence of the painting, the critical reception and ongoing controversy, and eventual purchase by Mohammed bin Salman, the Crown Prince of Saudi Arabia. The history and condition, the restoration, the materials and techniques of the painting in comparison with other works by the artist are discussed. An evaluation of the work's place and importance in Leonardo's oeuvre are considered, as well as new connections and discoveries made by the author, art historians, and scientists, which have continued to evolve even in its absence. Its disappearance after the historic 2017 sale at Christie's have caused rife speculation about its whereabouts, scholarly opinion. Can we expect to see it again? Speaker Dianne Modestini, Paintings Conservator and Professor Emerita, The Conservation Center of the Institute of Fine Arts, NYU

Cities like New York often feel hotter than their surroundings, especially on summer nights. This is the “urban heat island” effect, caused by the replacement of natural land covers with heat-absorbing materials, reduced vegetation and evapotranspiration, urban geometry that traps heat, and waste heat from human activities. Around the world, UHIs affect energy use, air quality, and public health. This talk explores when cities get hotter, how we measure these effects, and what makes them worse or better, and discusses Abu Dhabi, a rapidly growing desert city, to see how heat islands play out in extreme climates, and what lessons desert cities can teach us about the future of urban living. Speakers Rita Leal Sousa, Associate Professor of Civil and Urban Engineering and former 19 Washington Square North Faculty Fellow, NYUAD Yi Yin, Associate Professor, Environmental Sciences, NYU; Former 19 Washington Square North Faculty Fellow, NYUAD In collaboration with NYU Abu Dhabi Institute

All cutting-edge medical treatments come with side effects that can limit their benefit. In this talk, Prof. Ramadi explores how we can make medicine better—by moving beyond today's one-size-fits-all approaches toward smarter, personalized interventions. With breakthroughs in nanotechnology, artificial intelligence, and advanced therapeutics, we are rethinking how medicine can not only treat disease but extend healthy years of life worldwide. Speaker Khalil Ramadi, Assistant Professor of Bioengineering, NYU; Director of the Laboratory for Advanced Neuroengineering and Translational Medicine, NYUAD

Stem cells hold promise for understanding human disease, screening for novel therapeutics, and regenerating damaged tissues. However, the mechanisms underlying how these cells form and are activated are still being uncovered, and the development of stem cell-derived tissues for drug screening and transplantation is a work in progress. This conversation with leaders in the field explores the fundamentals of stem cell biology, current stem cell-based therapies, and the ethical considerations shaping the future of stem cell research and its clinical applications. Panel Members Lorenz Studer, Director, Center for Stem Cell Biology, Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center Sarah E. Millar, Dean for Academic and Scientific Affairs and Chair of the new Department of Stem Cell Biology and Regenerative Medicine, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai In conversation with Kirsten Sadler Edepli, Professor of Biology, NYUAD; Global Network Professor of Biology, NYU

This talk features a conversation with Ibrahim al-Koni, a prominent contemporary author in Arabic literature. Raised as a Tuareg in the Libyan desert, al-Koni's storytelling is informed by his educational background and extensive travels. His extensive body of work, encompassing over a hundred books, examines the history of the Mediterranean region and the desert. The discussion will focus on al-Koni's unique portrayal of the desert landscape and its cultural and historical significance. Speaker Ibrahim al-Koni, Libyan-Swiss Author, Winner of the 2008 Sheikh Zayed Award for Literature, and 2023 Sharjah Book Fair Cultural Personality of the Year In conversation with Maurice Pomerantz, Executive Director NYUAD Institute, Professor of Literature and Arab Crossroads Studies, NYUAD In collaboration with Humanities Research Platform

This talk discusses whether the UAE is on track to become the epicenter of Arab pop culture over the next decade or if its influence will remain tied to amplifying trends from elsewhere. While the country has established itself as a global business and finance hub, can it also position itself as a leading exporter of Arab creativity, shaping regional and global cultural currents? The panelists will examine the forces driving the UAE's creative industries, the role of institutional and private support, and the challenges and opportunities that will determine its long-term cultural influence. Panel Members Gianluca Chakra, CEO, Front Row Entertainment Rawan Al-Dabbas, Regional Director, IFPI MENA Moderated by Mikey Muhanna, CEO & Founder of afikra | عفكرة In Collaboration with afikra

Explore the intersection of cybersecurity, technology ethics, and disinformation with leading experts. This panel examines the human-centered aspects of cybertechnology, the global threats posed by state actors, and the ethical dilemmas at the forefront of our digital age. Join us for a thought-provoking discussion that uncovers the challenges and solutions in protecting our digital future. Speakers James Lewis, Senior Vice President, Pritzker Chair, and Director of the Strategic Technologies Program at the Center for Strategic and International Studies (CSIS) Mayra Ruiz-McPherson, Cyber/Media Psychologist, Qualitative Futurist, Cognitive/Behavioral Scientist, Researcher & Ethicist In conversation with Muhammet Bas, Associate Professor of Political Science, NYUAD In Collaboration with U.S. Mission to the United Arab Emirates

Explore the prehistoric landscapes of Arabia, tracing the movements of early humans who migrated from Africa over the past two million years. The talk examines how these groups adapted to diverse environments, from lush greenery to areas inhabited by now-extinct animals. It highlights their use of stone tools, local flora, and fauna for survival, and how water served as a crucial lifeline. The speaker will provide insights into the challenges faced and strategies employed by these ancient peoples to navigate and thrive in their changing world. Speaker Abdullah Alsharekh, Department of Archaeology, King Saud University, Saudi Arabia

This talk explores the profound artistry and scientific intricacies of Indian art music, with a focus on the Hindustani repertoire. Dr. Kaustuv Kanti Ganguli delves into the psychoacoustic and emotional dimensions of ragas, illustrating how pitch, timbre, and rhythm evoke deep responses. Bridging tradition with technology, he demonstrates the role of objective thinking in understanding melodic nuances and improvisation techniques. Speaker Kaustuv Kanti Ganguli, Associate Professor of Computing, Zayed University; Visiting Scholar, NYUAD

The Climate Crisis has created novel challenges for public policy in the Global South. Developing nations need to discover ways of continuing to grow without undermining the goals of the Paris Agreement, transitioning to green energy at the same time as addressing deep problems of economic growth and social inequality. They also need to mitigate some of the effects of extreme weather events, such as floods or forest fires. In this panel discussion four experienced judges will reflect on the role of the law on this process. Can a substantive conception of environmental rights make a difference? Does the constitution have anything to say about the green transition? Can a Supreme Court assist this process by providing safeguards of fairness and legitimacy? Panel Members Dr Justice Syed Refaat Ahmed, Chief Justice of Bangladesh Justice Ananda Bahatarai, Retired Justice of the Supreme Court of Nepal Moderated by Pavlos Eleftheriadis, Program Head of Legal Studies; Professor of Legal Studies, NYUAD

This panel explores how integrating art, science and engineering fosters innovation, broadens perspectives, and drives societal contributions. In the UAE's cultural and scientific landscape, interdisciplinary collaboration is crucial to engage the public, inspire creativity, and support the nation's long-term goals in education and research. Panelists Iyad Rahwan, Director of the Max Planck Institute for Human Development, Berlin Stephanie Rosenthal, Director of the Guggenheim Abu Dhabi Project Henry Tan, Artist in Residence at the NYU Abu Dhabi Center for Genomics and Systems Biology Moderated by Maya Allison, NYU Abu Dhabi Chief Curator and Galleries Executive Director In collaboration with Center for Genomics and Systems Biology

This talk explores the Universe's journey from its homogeneous beginnings after the Big Bang to the formation of stars from primordial hydrogen and helium. Through nuclear fusion, stars produced light elements, and their dramatic deaths as supernovae forged elements up to iron. The Zwicky Transient Facility, a cutting-edge 2-telescope project, systematically studies the dynamic Universe. The speaker will discuss remarkable discoveries, including super-luminous supernovae, new transient phenomena, supernova progenitors, planets being engulfed by aging stars, and an abundance of pulsating and binary stars. Speaker Shrinivas R. Kulkarni, George Ellery Hale Professor of Astronomy and Planetary Science, California Institute of Technology (Caltech) In collaboration with Center for Astrophysics and Space Science

This talk explores the concept of prophecy and prophethood from a multi-faith perspective. Prophets existed before the Bible, as seen in ancient texts describing the Mesopotamian nabū, muhhum, and assinnu. Biblical prophets came in many forms—true and false, charismatic and solitary, loyal to kings or opposing them. The debate over prophecy persisted for millennia: Jews saw it as ending with the Hebrew Bible, Christians viewed Jesus as its fulfillment, and Muslims recognized Muhammad as the final prophet. Yet, prophecy endures in groups like the Mormons and Baha'is. The speaker will examine how different traditions understand prophecy, its historical evolution, and its continued relevance today. Speaker Reuven Firestone, Regenstein Professor in Medieval Judaism and Islam, Hebrew Union College

This talk examines Soviet power through a transregional and global lens, focusing on its cultural and political exchanges with the Middle East. Drawing from a recently published book, The Eastern International: Arabs, Central Asians, and Jews in the Soviet Union's Anticolonial Empire, it traces how the Soviet concept of the “East” shaped both domestic policy and international influence, from the early Bolshevik era to Putin's Russia. Through the stories of Soviet Jews, Central Asians, and Arab Marxists, it uncovers a fascinating web of cultural and political exchanges that blurred the lines between empire and anti-colonialism. Speaker Masha Kirasirova, Author, "The Eastern International: Arabs, Central Asians, and Jews in the Soviet Union's Anticolonial Empire" (Oxford University Press, 2024); Assistant Professor of History, NYUAD

This talk explores how parents can support their young children's digital play, learning, and curiosity in today's digital world. The speaker will discuss practical strategies for keeping children safe online while fostering meaningful engagement with their digital interactions. Learn how children navigate their digital landscapes and discover effective approaches for parental involvement in their digital experiences. Gain insights and tools to support your child's digital journey with confidence and care. Speaker Susan Danby, Distinguished Professor in Early Childhood Education, Queensland University of Technology In collaboration with Abu Dhabi Early Childhood Authority

This panel discussion will consider how ethical decisions will be influenced in the future by the many applications of Artificial Intelligence. An ethicist and philosopher, an engineer who will design intelligent robots, and a computer scientist whose goal will be to make "responsible AI" synonymous with "AI" will each present a view of future AI ethics and then discuss how their views will diverge. While each participant will be a specialist conducting research into AI ethics, this discussion will bring together scientific, technical, and humanistic issues under the broad category of responsibility. Panel Members Ludovic Righetti, Electrical and Computer Engineer; Director of Machines in Motion Laboratory, Autonomous Machines in Motion Jeff Sebo, Ethicist and Philosopher; Director of Center for Mind, Ethics and Policy, AI Moral Well Being Julia Stoyanovich, Computer Scientist, Director of Center for Responsible AI, AI Governance Moderated by Harold Sjursen, Professor Emeritus, NYU Tandon School of Engineering

This talk will take students on a journey through humanity's ongoing quest to uncover the fundamental laws that shape our universe. The speaker will reflect on the progress made so far and highlight the challenges that lie ahead. Students will have plenty of opportunities to ask questions and engage in discussions, making this an exciting learning experience for young minds eager to explore the mysteries of the cosmos. Speaker David Tong, Professor of Theoretical Physics, University of Cambridge

This talk will explore the role of chaos in nature, highlighting how even well-understood rules can make predicting the future challenging—weather forecasting being a prime example. The speaker will discuss recent discoveries showing that chaos is central to the behavior of black holes, some of the most mysterious objects in the universe. These developments provide fresh insights into the ongoing effort to unify quantum mechanics with the theory of gravity. Speaker Stephen Shenker, Richard Herschel Weiland Professor and Professor of Physics, Stanford University

Join us for the inaugural ذخر (Dhikhr) Award presentation, inspired by the vision of the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, who said, "The book is the vessel of knowledge, civilization, culture, learning, literature, and the arts. Nations are not measured by their material wealth alone, but by their civilizational authenticity." The word Dhikhr means "valuable asset" in Arabic, symbolizing this award's purpose: to honor those who have enriched the UAE's heritage. This year, we recognize the late David Heard and Frauke Heard-Bey for their invaluable contributions. The ceremony will feature a brief talk on their legacy, followed by the award presentation.

This talk explores the potential consequences of the end of global population growth, examining various scenarios for a world with no growth. With global population growth likely to cease within the next 60 years, some view this shift as a relief from ecological pressures, while others fear it may lead to labor shortages, government fiscal collapse, and aging populations lacking adequate care. Countries with extremely low fertility rates—such as Italy, Japan, and South Korea—could even face the risk of national extinction within a few generations. This talk will investigate these contrasting perspectives, considering whether this shift will be a boon or a doom for the future. Speaker Jack A. Goldstone, Virginia E. and John T. Hazel, Jr. Chair Professor of Public Policy and Director of the Center for Social Change, George Mason University