005 Building International Cooperation Between Institutions of Science And Research

Professor Mike Lepech from Stanford University, Professor in the School of Engineering and the School of Sustainability, Member of the Board of Directors of Poland in Silicon Valley Center

Piotr Moncarz, Adjunct Professor (emeritus) of Civil and Environmental Engineering at Stanford University and a Center Fellow at the Stanford Center for Sustainable Development and Global Competitiveness

Key Topics Discussed

1. Professor Mike Lepech’s Background:
   • Researches multi-scale design of sustainable built environments.
   • Oversees the Center for Sustainable Development and Global Competitiveness.
   • Involved in smart and sustainable cities research in Songdo, South Korea.
2. International Cooperation:
   • Importance of international cooperation in science and research.
   • Value proposition for both sides in such collaborations.
   • Examples of successful international projects in South Korea and Saudi Arabia.
3. Challenges and Opportunities:
   • Challenges of international collaboration, such as cultural differences, funding, and logistical issues.
   • Need for unique value propositions and mutual benefits.
   • Role of funding and structuring financial aspects of international projects.
4. Case Studies:
   • South Korea: Focus on smart city research and human-centered design.
   • Saudi Arabia: Projects on entrepreneurship and innovation, driven by Vision 2030.

The webinar concluded with a summary of key takeaways and closing remarks from the speakers, emphasizing the importance of international cooperation and the potential for future collaborations.