 logo.jpg)
The Royal Scientific Society (RSS) is an independent non-governmental, not-for-profit multidisciplinary science institution established by Royal Charter. Founded in 1970 as a national organisation to actively advise and support the development of Jordan with sound technical and policy advice, and consultations.
Founded from the great heart and generous spirit of His Majesty the Late King Hussein and HRH Prince Hassan, RSS aims to be the knowledge leader for science and technology, locally and regionally. Recognised internationally for his dedication to humanitarian causes, HRH Prince Hassan is currently Chairman of the organisation and HRH Princess Sumaya bint El Hassan serves as the President. HRH Princess Sumaya is recognised for her work promoting scientific endeavour and development at a local and international level. As a national beacon for science, the RSS campus headquarters is located in Amman but the laboratories, collaborative initiatives and much of the testing and research activity stretches far beyond the capital city, with activities in every governorate of Jordan. The RSS campus has an area of 340,000 sqm and is supported by more than 500 scientists, researchers, and supporting staff and is recognised as a local, regional and international research hub.
The RSS undertakes specialised and accredited testing, research work with local industries and universities, provides technical advice for the private and public sectors, and works in partnership with regional and international organisations. Amongst the wide-ranging scientific work carried out at the RSS much involves collecting, monitoring and assessing raw data to develop evidence-based action for Jordan, the organisation promotes and invests in science for humanity, and support for Jordan and its people is at the core of its purpose. Since its inception as a national and independent organisation, the prime objectives of the RSS have been to protect human health and safety, to safeguard the environment, and to contribute to sustainable economic development.
The RSS operates through five key pillars that support its commitment to development for Jordan and the region. The pillars include Research for Development; Technologies for Sustainable Development; Office of the President; Partnerships for Development; Knowledge for Development; and Operations and Organisational Development. The RSS understands that real and sustainable development comes about through multi and interdisciplinary research, consultation and knowledge creation. Each one of the RSS Pillars aids development through its unique functions and through its collaboration with other parts of the RSS organization.
The RSS Technologies for Sustainable Development pillar brings extensive experience in Energy, Water and Environment through two important centres – The National Energy Research Centre (NERC) and The Water, Environment and Climate Change Centre (WEC). NERC works on areas such as solar thermal energy, photovoltaics, geothermal, wind energy, bioenergy and energy efficiency, providing turnkey project solutions in addition to specific consultancy assignments such as techno-economic feasibility studies, energy audits, measurements and verification and performance measurements. NERC also operates specialised energy efficiency and renewable energy laboratories. WEC is a leading provider of intelligent sustainable solutions in the main areas of water quality & hydrological studies, air quality & dispersion modelling, environmental management & eco-innovation, climate change adaptation & mitigation, smart agriculture, real-time water quality monitoring and circular economy. WEC develops innovative solutions, adapts the application of technologies to the local context, and works closely with communities and local authorities to improve local environmental resilience.