Nurturing Kazakhstan’s Next-Gen Researchers
September 17-19, 2025
NUARC-2025 offers a rich program of poster presentations, keynote speeches, panel discussions, and interactive workshops. Participants will gain valuable insights, enhance research skills, collaborate on new ideas, and reflect on challenges and opportunities in academia.
As society increasingly relies on research-driven solutions, fostering a supportive environment where experienced faculty mentor emerging researchers is more critical than ever. NUARC-2025 provides a unique platform for interdisciplinary exchange, welcoming experts, thought leaders, and developing researchers alike.
Join us for three days of thought-provoking discussions, knowledge sharing, and networking as we work together to advance research and innovation in Kazakhstan and beyond!
The Three Minute Thesis (3MT®) is an academic research communication competition developed by The University of Queensland (UQ), Australia. 3MT cultivates students’ academic, presentation, and research communication skills. The competition supports their capacity to effectively explain their research in three minutes. Graduate students from diverse disciplines will compete to convey their complex research to a general audience in a clear, engaging, and accessible manner. The 3MT competition aims to enhance the profile of the Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) both within universities and the wider community.
Why attend?
- Gain insights into groundbreaking research
- Support our talented graduate students
- Witness the next generation of innovators
- Network with fellow academics and professionals
NU 3MT 2025 Competition Timeline
The NU 3MT 2025 Competition is now open to ALL eligible PhD students.
- Till September 1: School-level 3MT competitions
- September 10: NU Wildcard Competition
- September 17: NU 3MT Competition Final
NU 3MT Final Prizes
- First Prize: TBA
- Runner-Up: TBA
- People’s Choice: TBA
Contact the NU 3MT coordinator
If you should have questions or concerns regarding the NU 3MT Competition, please email us at 3mt@nu.edu.kz.
For more information please visit NU website.
(in-person attendance)
Standard registration fee: 20 000 KZT
Student registration fee: 5 000 KZT
The 2nd Annual Nazarbayev University Research Conference (NUARC 2025) invites researchers from all disciplines across Kazakhstan and Central Asia to submit abstracts for oral and poster presentations. Submissions should align with at least one of NU’s key research priorities:
- Health and Wellbeing
- Socio-economic Transformation
- New Materials and Technologies
- Artificial Intelligence
- Energy and the Environment
Important dates
Abstract Submission Deadline: 30 June 2025
Notification of Acceptance: 30 July 2025
Registration opens: 1 August 2025
Poster Submission Deadline (for printing): 15 August 2025
Author Registration Deadline: 25 August 2025
Conference Dates: 17–19 September 2025
- Structure: purpose, methodology, main findings, and originality/limitations.
- Word count: 200–300 words.
- Avoid references, formulas, charts, tables, and graphics.
- Define abbreviations on first use; do not use them in the title.
- Abstracts must be self-contained and understandable without additional materials.
- Non-compliant abstracts will not be reviewed.
Submission
- Submit your abstract via the Oxford Abstracts platform.
- Log in with your existing account or create a new one.
- All abstracts must be submitted and presented in English.
- Submissions must align with at least one of NU’s research priorities.
- Presenters may choose their preferred format: oral presentation, poster presentation, or both.
- Each registration allows for the submission of one abstract only.
technologies
Through a structured, hands-on activity, participants will be divided into two groups to solve the same creative task – one using AI assistance, the other applying traditional methods. This comparative setup helps to directly explore how AI influences both divergent thinking (idea generation) and convergent thinking (solution refinement).
Following the task, guided reflection and peer discussion will support a deeper evaluation of how AI shapes not only the outcomes but also the cognitive journey behind them. The workshop aims to build participants’ awareness of AI’s impact on creativity, strengthen their own creative capacities, and offer practical, transferable strategies for ethically and effectively integrating AI into teaching and research environments.
About the Speakers
Dr. Mariza Tsakalerou is an Associate Professor at Nazarbayev University at the School of Engineering and Digital Sciences and the Director of Engineering Management Program.
Dr. Tsakalerou is a researcher in the fields of Innovation Management, Innovation Performance, SME Management, Industry 4.0, Multi-Criteria Decision Making, Gender Gap in Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM), and Education, and also AI capabilities and impact on creativity. She has successfully led two major research grants as PI and is currently completing her third. Her teaching portfolio includes but is not limited to management decision systems, innovation management, and new product and service development courses.
Dr. Tsakalerou has authored many peer-reviewed international journal and conference papers, along with a diverse set of essays in her fields. Her research has been published in highly ranked venues such as Q1 journals including IEEE Transactions of Education, International Journal of Gender and Entrepreneurship, and Scientific Reports. She is also a reviewer in international journals such as Journal of Engineering and Technology Management, International Journal of Learning and Intellectual Capital and Journal of Science and Technology Policy Management.
Dr. Saltanat Akhmadi is an Instructor at Nazarbayev University at the School of Engineering and Digital Sciences. Her research interests include statistical analysis, optimization techniques and econometrics for technology management, operations and supply chain management.
Her research has currently been published in the Q1 and Q2 journals (e.g., International Journal of Gender and Entrepreneurship and International Journal of Innovation Science) and was presented at several conferences.
In this presentation, Dr. Memon will cover the following topics:
- What is Generative AI?
- How it is different from the traditional AI?
- What are the potential benefits and concerns regarding the use of Generative AI?
- In-depth analysis of Scopus Generative AI
- Are the content generated by AI reliable?
- Am I allowed to use Generative AI?
- Should I list Generative AI as an author?
- What about the copyright issues?
- What is meant by the term “AI assisted copy editing”?
- Comparative analysis of Generative AI Policies in Scientific Publishing
- An example of declaration statement
About the Speaker
Dr. Shazim Ali Memon, has more than 17 years of experience and has published more than 130 SCI journal papers (80% published in the Q1 category journals) on various topics, including the development and application of PCMs in buildings. Dr. Memon’s name has been included among the top 2% of the world’s most impactful scientists, according to a bibliometric study conducted by researchers from Stanford University. He is ranked number 1 in Kazakhstan in terms of number of publications, h-index, and citations in several categories enlisted in All Science Journal Classification and Quacquarelli Symonds Classification. As of today, his Google Scholar indices are (Citation 10098 and h-index 53), and his Scopus citation indices are (Citation 7 842 and h-index 50).
Currently, he is serving as an Associate Editor of Advances in Civil Engineering, Frontiers in Materials, Process and Energy Systems Engineering, Frontiers in Built Environment, Frontiers in Energy Research, Academic Editor of Advances in Materials and Engineering and Journal of Energy, and Editorial Board Member of Scientific Reports, Buildings, and International Journal of Concrete Structures and Materials.
We will begin by presenting the findings of recent research conducted at NU on the adoption of AI tools among faculty members.
Next, we will broaden the lens to examine how leading universities worldwide are incorporating GenAI into their academic ecosystems. Drawing on prominent and innovative case studies, this segment will highlight global trends, institutional strategies, and best practices in the responsible use of AI.
The workshop will then transition into practical applications, starting with how GenAI can enhance teaching and learning. Participants will explore real-life use cases such as course design support, assessment generation, and student feedback facilitation.
In the final segment, we will focus on AI tools for research, discussing how AI can support research workflow.
Throughout the session, participants will engage in discussions, share experiences, and reflect on strategies for ethical and effective integration of AI in their own professional contexts.
About the Speakers
Aida Nuranova is a Professional Learning and Development Expert at the Center for Innovation in Learning and Teaching at Nazarbayev University, with over five years of experience in higher education. She leads and supports a range of professional development initiatives aimed at enhancing teaching excellence and pedagogical innovation within the university community. Her core interests lie in learning and teaching, pedagogy, and the integration of artificial intelligence in educational contexts.
Aida has actively contributed to international collaborations and global education forums. She participated in the Asia-Europe Foundation’s educational program in Shanghai, and has been part of a consortium led by the World Innovation Summit for Education (WISE) in Qatar and the Institute of International Education (IIE) in the United States.
Her recent research, supported by a grant from the Central Asian Research Center for Educational Innovation and Transformation (CARCEIT) at the Graduate School of Education, explores the impact of neoliberal policies on higher education institutions. She presented findings from this study at an international conference in Nicosia, Cyprus, with a talk titled Changing Academic Profession in Kazakhstan: Examining Faculty’s Research Performativity and Accountability in the Post-Socialist Context of Higher Education.
Aiza Bissaliyeva is the Online Learning Multimedia Manager at Nazarbayev University’s Center for Innovation in Learning and Teaching. She oversees the operations of the Innovative Learning Studio, leading the design, production, and management of multimedia resources that support online, blended, and face-to-face learning. She collaborates closely with faculty to support the effective use of educational technologies and facilitates workshops and seminars on AI integration in teaching.
Aiza co-led the research project titled “Outsourcing your Brain”, Principled Resistance or Enthusiastic Adoption: The Diversity of Faculty Perspectives on the Adoption and Impact of AI at Nazarbayev University, Kazakhstan. This project, conducted under the WISE Consortium and funded by the Qatar Foundation in partnership with the Institute of International Education (IIE), explored faculty attitudes toward AI in higher education.
Aiza is also an alumna of NU’s Graduate School of Education, where her master’s thesis focused on faculty perspectives on Edtech and AI integration, reinforcing her commitment to the ethical and innovative use of emerging technologies in academic practice.
Please use the Visa-migration portal of the RK if you need to apply for visa.
Taxi Services
If you opt for a taxi, expect a journey of around 20–45 minutes to the city, with fares starting from 2 000 KZT. Payment methods include cash or linked credit/debit cards on apps like YandexGo. Note that physical card terminals are not commonly available in Kazakhstani taxis.
Public Transportation
Alternatively, public transport is available. From the airport, catch buses № 10 or 12, alighting at Nazarbayev University. Buses operate every 10 or 15 minutes from 6 am to 11 pm. Please be aware that cash is not accepted on buses. Payment must be made through designated apps (details provided below).
Refer to online maps, the Astra Bus app, or 2gis.kz for bus routes and schedules.
- Standard Room: 16,800 KZT
- Superior Standard Room: 20,160 KZT
- Suite: 22,400 KZT
Alternatively, we recommend the following hotels near the Conference venue:
- Hilton Astana - Approximately 1 km from the venue, located at the EXPO territory near Mega Silkway mall.
- Dami Hotel Astana - Approximately 1 km from the venue, located at the EXPO territory near Mega Silkway mall.
- Wyndham Garden Astana - Approximately 1.5 km from the venue, conveniently located to the new Astana International Airport (7 min).
- Neos Hotel - Approximately 3 km from the venue, located near the Botanical garden and sport stadiums like «Barys Arena», «Astana Arena», «Alau» and «Saryarka» Velodrome.
The Conference ensures access to campus for all registered participants. There are two main entrances to the university: Turan Avenue entrance and Kabanbay batyr Avenue entrance. Please refer to the campus map.
Taxi Information
Official taxis can access campus via Turan Avenue entrance.
Internet Access
The public Wi-Fi "NU Guest" network is open and free to use.
Dining Options
Below is a list of on-campus dining facilities:
- Tör - located in block C3, 1st floor
- Kunde - located in block C2, Mezzanine floor
- Mokko - located in block 3, 1st floor
- Green food - located in block 4, 2nd floor
- Health Project - upper atrium between blocks C2 and C4
- Espresso day - upper atrium between blocks C2 and C3
- Daily cup - lower atrium between blocks C2 and C3
- Pablo - lower atrium between blocks C3 and C4
Please note that slots are limited, so be sure to sign up early to secure your spot.
Here are some destinations that you can visit:
- Bayterek Tower: An iconic symbol of the city, Bayterek Tower offers panoramic views of Astana from its observation deck. It is a great place to see the city layout.
- Expo 2017: NUR ALEM Museum: The site of the international exposition held in 2017, it now houses museums and pavilions focused on future energy and sustainable development.
- Palace of Peace and Reconciliation: Designed by architect Norman Foster, this pyramid-shaped building hosts various cultural and religious events.
- Hazret Sultan Mosque: One of the largest mosques in Central Asia, Hazret Sultan Mosque is a beautiful example of Islamic architecture and a peaceful place to visit.
Photo highlights from the NU Annual Research Conference 2024
Collection and Use of Personal Data
In accordance with the Law of the Republic of Kazakhstan “On Personal Data and its Protection,” the Organizer collects, processes, uses, and stores personal data of Conference participants, recorded on electronic, paper, and/or other tangible media. This data may include, but is not limited to, the following information:
- Identification Data: Last name, first name, patronymic, position, and organization.
- Contact Information: Cell phone number and email address.
- Additional Information: Any other information necessary for the Organizer to fulfill its functions.
- Sending emails to participants with registration confirmations and logistical details.
- Providing participants with access to Conference materials.
- Granting participants access to the Organizer's campus.
- Any other purposes as established by the legislation of the Republic of Kazakhstan.
- Processing and Protection of Personal Data
Photography and Videography
By participating in the Conference, participants consent to being photographed and videotaped. The Organizer may use these images and recordings for promotional, educational, and informational purposes in print, digital, or web formats. Participants acknowledge and agree that all such materials are the exclusive property of the Organizer, and they waive any rights to compensation or ownership.
Acceptance of the Policy Terms
By registering for the Conference, participants confirm their acceptance of this Privacy Policy terms.
The given Public Offer Agreement (hereinafter referred to as the "Agreement") sets forth the procedure and terms for providing services related to participation in the NU Annual Research Conference and includes all the essential terms and conditions of these services.
The posting of this Agreement on the website [https://arc.nu.edu.kz] (hereinafter referred to as the "Website") constitutes an official offer from the Organizer to an unrestricted number of individuals to enter into the Agreement on the terms and conditions outlined below.
Acceptance of this offer is considered complete upon payment of the registration fee by an individual, in the manner and under the conditions provided in this Agreement, signifying full and unconditional acceptance of all terms of the Agreement without any exceptions or limitations.
1. Subject of the Agreement
1.1. The Organizer agrees to provide the Participant with services for organizing participation in the conference "NU Annual Research Conference" (hereinafter referred to as the "Conference"), and the Participant agrees to accept and pay for these services in accordance with the terms of this Agreement.
1.2. The services include:
- Registration of the Participant for the Conference;
- Provision of informational materials for the Conference;
- Access to events held as part of the Conference;
- Other services provided by the Conference program.
1.3. The date, time, venue, and program of the Conference will be specified on the Website and may be subject to change by the Organizer, with notice given to the Participant by posting the relevant information on the Website.
1.4. The cost of services is determined by the amount of the registration fee, as described on the Website. Payment must be made in the manner and within the timeframes specified on the Website.
2. Responsibilities of the Parties
2.1. The Organizer is not responsible for the Participant's inability to attend the Conference due to reasons beyond the Organizer's control.
2.2. In the event of the Conference being canceled, the Organizer agrees to refund the registration fee in full to the Participant.
2.3. The fees paid for participation in the Conference are non-refundable. By paying the registration fee, the Participant agrees to this condition.
Phone: +7 7172 69 49 73
Email: arc@nu.edu.kz
Media inquiries
Email: pressa@nu.edu.kz
Address: 53, Kabanbay batyr Ave., Astana, 010000,
Republic of Kazakhstan