Virtual lab to link Arab scientists

Surfing scientists could improve links with West

Arab researchers are aiming to help revive science in the Middle East by setting up a computer network linking universities, governments and businesses.

They plan to use technology to create a virtual lab, where scientists from across the region can meet, work together and share ideas.

It is hoped the network will not only increase co-operation and the sharing of ideas within the Arab world but beyond.

"It will link the Arab scientific community to a global one and allow scientists to share with other scientists in the West, India, China and across the world," said Dr Ali Assam, managing director of KnowledgeView, the UK-based company behind the idea.

"It will provide organised dialogue with the West which is important for better understanding between nations," he told the BBC programme, Go Digital.

Catching up with the West

A thousand years ago Arab science was leading the world. Middle Eastern scientists were busy making advances in algebra and astronomy while Europe was floundering in the Dark Ages.

Dr Assam hopes the network will encourage innovation

Now Arab nations spend just 0.15% of their gross domestic product on research and development compared to a world average of 1.4%.

"The Arab world is starting from a lower level in terms of spend on science and research," admitted Dr Assam.

"The aim of this network is to encourage science and innovation and allow scientists to exchange ideas," he said.

As part of the project, there will be a virtual lab. In this 3D environment, scientists and students will be able to wander around and discuss ideas.

Scientists can even impose their own faces on the digital characters representing them in the lab.

Economic pressure

The rich Arab nations realise that money from oil will not last forever.

It will provide information about innovations that can be applied in both Arab society and externally

Dr Ali Assam, KnowledgeView

So one of the driving forces behind the knowledge network is economic necessity.

This is pushing hitherto insular Arab nations to open up to the internet, said Dr Assam.

"Pressure for economic integration across the world and the importance of the internet in this has forced many governments to open up their societies to the internet," he said.

Despite this, some Middle East countries retain a tight rein over access to the web.

Research into solar power and water management are two important on-going projects in the Middle East and Dr Assam hopes the network will improve links between scientists and businesses.

"Local and global businesses can take advantage of it. It will provide information about innovations that can be applied in both Arab society and externally," he said.

Educational role

Another key role of the network is to enable Arab science students to learn without having to leave their countries.

Currently many Arab students spend at least some of their time studying in the West.

But some believe that it may be more difficult for scientists from Muslim countries to find university places in Europe and the US following the 11 September attacks.

"The network will cross geographical boundaries," said Dr Assam.