About SASTA
Finding Inspiration in Every Turn
SASTA is a beacon of togetherness for Arab advocates of science all over the world.
From researchers to media personnel, SASTA strives to keep all stakeholders engaged through a variety of initiatives. These include developing an extensive database of expatriate Arab scientists to enable networking and collaboration.
SASTA also aims to initiate fruitful discussions and shed light on success stories online as well as on-ground.
Our Story
The Society for the Advancement of Science and Technology in the Arab World (SASTA) was born out of the mutual interest of Arab Expatriate Scientists (AES) and Academics living abroad to engage more effectively with the Arab Education, Science and Technology community to create a positive impact in the Arab World. Our objective as a society is to follow-up on all activities that will have a positive impact on the status of science and technology in the Arab countries.
SASTA was registered as a non-profit organization with the Office of the Secretary of State of California on October,1 2011.
Mission
SASTA aims to foster collaboration, promote knowledge transfer, enhance education and training, advocate for recognition and support, and cultivate a vibrant community of Arab scientists, entrepreneurs, and innovators.
Vision
To advance science, engineering, and innovation in the Arab world through diaspora Arab scientists, entrepreneurs, and innovators.
Goals
Goal 1: Fostering Collaboration and Community - A Network for Arab Scientists
Goal 2: Building the Future - Knowledge Transfer to Empower Young Arab Scientists
Goal 3: Advocating for Recognition and Support - Investing in Arab Scientific Progress
Meet the Board
Noureddine Melikechi | President
Serving as the President and Chair of the Executive Committee, Professor Noureddine Melikechi, a distinguished Professor of Physics and Dean of the Kennedy College of Sciences, brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to SASTA.
Born in Algeria and now based in the United States, his expertise lies in atomic, molecular, and optical physics. Professor Melikechi's academic contributions are extensive, including authorship of over 150 peer-reviewed scientific articles and 5 book chapters.
A key figure in NASA's Mars missions, his work involves analyzing data from laser-induced spectroscopy, using instruments like the ChemCam and SuperCam aboard the Curiosity and Perseverance rovers. His excellence in the field is recognized through his fellowship with the American Association for the Advancement of Science, the American Physical Society, and Optica.
With a remarkable record of over 10,000 citations, Professor Melikechi embodies the vision and expertise that SASTA seeks for its next development phase, especially in areas like mentorship within the SASTA community.
