From May 28 to 30, National Laboratory Astana (NLA) hosted the 4th International Symposium on Emerging Materials and Devices (ISEMD 2025). The event brought together over 180 researchers from Spain, the USA, China, the United Kingdom, Turkey, Finland, Ecuador, Uzbekistan, Russia, and Kazakhstan. Domestic participants included representatives from KazNU, Satbayev University, Abai University, Astana IT University, and other institutions.
In his welcoming speech, NU President Professor Waqar Ahmad emphasized the importance of sustainable energy solutions in the face of growing climate change and environmental degradation.
Research and education in renewable energy are central to our mission. We are preparing future leaders who will develop and implement innovative technologies in solar, wind, and other clean energy sectors.
The scientific program featured more than 46 presentations. Topics included solar cells, biomass, hydrogen production and storage, and topological materials for quantum applications. Discussions also covered the development of medicines from biomass, smart polymers for electronics, and advanced fuels—ambitious scientific challenges that captivated participants.
Kazakhstani innovations sparked particular interest. NLA’s Renewable Energy Laboratory presented a porous polymer designed for flexible electronics and biosensors. The material is highly deformation-resistant and enhances the performance of wearable devices. Meanwhile, a biomass research team led by Senior Researcher Minavar Shaimardan introduced a pioneering study for Kazakhstan: a hypertension treatment derived from furfural, an organic compound extracted from corn cobs. The U.S. Department of Energy has recognized furfural as one of the most promising bio-based chemicals.
Kazakhstani innovations sparked particular interest. NLA’s Renewable Energy Laboratory presented a porous polymer designed for flexible electronics and biosensors. The material is highly deformation-resistant and enhances the performance of wearable devices. Meanwhile, a biomass research team led by Senior Researcher Minavar Shaimardan introduced a pioneering study for Kazakhstan: a hypertension treatment derived from furfural, an organic compound extracted from corn cobs. The U.S. Department of Energy has recognized furfural as one of the most promising bio-based chemicals.
Our main goal is to bring leading scientists worldwide to Kazakhstan. Such gatherings foster collaboration, joint research, and the promotion of Kazakhstan’s scientific achievements (Professor Nurхat Nuraje, Head of the Renewable Energy Laboratory at the National Laboratory Astana).
The symposium reaffirmed NU’s role as a growing scientific hub in the region and underscored Kazakhstan’s active contribution to the global movement toward a sustainable future.