Institute of New Energy Technologies and Materials to Be Established at NU
The new institute aims to strengthen Kazakhstan’s scientific capacity in the fields of energy, advanced materials, and innovation.
NU and the National Academy of Sciences under the President of the Republic of Kazakhstan have signed a Memorandum of Understanding focused on developing scientific collaboration and establishing the Institute of New Energy Technologies and Materials (INETM).
The memorandum was signed by NU President Waqar Ahmad and President of the National Academy of Sciences, Academician Akylbek Kurishbayev. The new Institute will be based at NU and developed under the management of the National Academy of Sciences, bringing together leading scientists and research teams to implement cutting-edge projects in energy and materials science.
INETM will serve as a national center of competence in key areas of energy transition, including nuclear and hydrogen energy, digitalization of energy systems, energy storage technologies, and scientific support for achieving carbon neutrality goals by 2060. The Institute will also provide independent scientific expertise for nuclear power plant projects and new energy initiatives, while acting as Kazakhstan’s national coordinator for cooperation with ITER, EuroFusion, and other global platforms.
The initiative of NU Professor and Academician of the National Academy of Sciences of Kazakhstan, Zhumabay Bakenov, to establish the institute is closely aligned with Kazakhstan’s strategic priorities for sustainable and safe energy development and complies with the directives of the Head of State. The creation of INETM is also a practical step toward implementing the initiative announced by the President of Kazakhstan to establish a UN Regional Center for Sustainable Energy in Kazakhstan, voiced at the 76th session of the UN General Assembly.
The agreement also envisions the development of joint research projects and programs, the promotion of international scientific and technological cooperation through conferences, symposia, and exhibitions, as well as the creation of international research consortia.
Particular attention within the partnership will be given to supporting young scientists — by creating opportunities for education, mentorship, internships, and participation in joint research and commercialization projects.
“This collaboration reflects our shared commitment to developing a new generation of Kazakhstani innovators,” said NU President Waqar Ahmad. “The Institute will become a center of excellence in energy and materials research, fostering interdisciplinary initiatives and preparing young researchers ready to make a meaningful contribution to the country’s sustainable future.”
President of the National Academy of Sciences, Academician Akylbek Kurishbayev, emphasized the significance of cooperation with NU:
“The National Academy of Sciences is pleased to join forces with NU in creating a platform where science, technology, and human capital development converge. Together, we will strengthen Kazakhstan’s position within the global scientific community.”
The establishment of the Institute of New Energy Technologies and Materials is a strategic step in developing Kazakhstan’s innovation ecosystem, expanding international cooperation, and supporting national priorities in energy transition and sustainable growth.
Reference:
The Institute, based at NU, will include the development of high-tech laboratories (for energy conversion and storage, hydrogen technologies, energy systems modeling, etc.), the launch of pilot projects, and diversified funding sources (government programs, industry partnerships, NU, and international grants — from the UN, EU, IAEA, and others). This approach will ensure the Institute’s financial sustainability and its rapid integration into international research consortia.
