The Lightsources for Africa, the Americas, Asia, Middle East and Pacific (LAAAMP) Executive Committee has awarded the 2025 Special Project Award to Dr. Gihan Kamel, Principal Scientist and Team Supervisor of the SESAME BM02-IR Beamline.
LAAAMP is a Joint Programme of the International Union of Pure and Applied Physics, the International Union of Crystallography and the Abdus Salam International Centre for Theoretical Physics, originally funded by the Grants Programme of the International Science Council.
The award will support the training of three early-career women researchers through a month-long programme at SESAME starting in February 2026. Participants will receive hands-on training in advanced infrared spectromicroscopy techniques, equipping them with practical expertise to strengthen both regional and international research capacity.
Applications are particularly encouraged from young women researchers pursuing Master’s or PhD studies in archaeology, biology, chemistry, engineering, physics, or related fields. Priority will be given to those from the SESAME Members and Observers.
I especially want to offer this opportunity to young female researchers, who often face travel restrictions that limit their participation in international science, said Dr. Gihan Kamel.
The grant will cover round-trip economy air travel and transportation between the airport and SESAME. It will also include an allowance for meals. Accommodation at SESAME’s Guest House for the selected participants will be free of charge.
This award reaffirms SESAME’s role as a centre of scientific excellence and international collaboration, equipping the next generation of women scientists with critical skills needed in their respective fields.
I thank LAAAMP for this award, which will allow me to help train young women scientists who will take part in shaping the future of global research, Dr. Gihan Kamel added.
Application deadline: 31 October2025, Apply here