Khalifa University of Science, Technology and Research is an independent, non-profit, coeducational institution inaugurated in 2007 as part of an Abu Dhabi Government initiative.

DSMC is a marketing incubator organisation that aims to accelerate international Defense, Space & Security industry related companies growth.

The speakers will be Dr. Tod A Laursen, President of Khalifa University Science, Technology and Research, in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates and Dr. Mohammed Ebrahim Al-Mualla, CEng, MIET, SMIEEE,  Senior Vice President, Research & Development.

Dr. Laursen earned his Ph.D. and M.Sc. postgraduate degrees in Mechanical Engineering from Stanford University and a B.Sc. in the same subject from Oregon State University. Prior to becoming President of Khalifa University, Dr. Laursen was a member of the faculty of Duke University (USA), he had appointments in civil engineering, biomedical engineering, and mechanical engineering.

Dr. Mohammed Al-Mualla holds a PhD degree in Electrical and Electronics Engineering and an MSc degree in Communication Systems and Signal Processing both from the University of Bristol, U.K. He also holds a BEng degree in Communications Engineering from Etisalat College of Engineering, UAE. Since 2000 he has been with Khalifa University where he has served in many roles including Manager of the Abu Dhabi Campus and Interim Provost. He is currently the Senior Vice President for Research & Development, providing leadership and strategic direction in the engagement of the university research enterprise with industry, and in the management of university Intellectual Property, technology transfer, and research support services. He also serves as the Senior Associate Provost and oversees in this role three major university functions: Student Recruitment & Admissions, Registration, and Student Services.