The Masdar Institute of Science and Technology and Zayed University today announced the establishment of a partnership to advance education and research on the social, behavioural and economic issues surrounding renewable and sustainable energy. The agreement makes provisions for joint research programs that will examine the scientific and socio-economic implications of Masdar City, designed to be the world's first carbon-neutral, zero-waste city completely powered by renewable energy. In addition, the agreement outlines arrangements for Zayed University to support the Masdar Institute's "pre-Master's" program by offering preparatory coursework to help students meet the Institute's rigorous graduate admissions requirements. The program intends to develop participating students in areas such as critical thinking, research, and communication as well as prepare them in the fundamentals of their chosen majors.