As part of the ongoing collaboration between the University of Technology and the University of Anbar, the College of Science and the Nanomaterials Research Center at the University of Anbar organized a specialized scientific symposium on "The Principles of Optical Detectors and Key Features of the Detector." Professor Dr. Raid Abdul Wahab Ismail, Head of the Department of Applied Sciences, delivered a lecture in which he comprehensively explained the principles of optical detector operation and their various types. He also reviewed the most significant applications of these detectors across different scientific and technological fields. He added, "Optical detectors play a crucial role in numerous applications, ranging from consumer electronic devices to advanced scientific applications." This symposium aligns with the efforts of the College of Science at the University of Anbar and the Department of Applied Sciences at the University of Technology to enhance scientific research and facilitate knowledge exchange among researchers and those interested in the field of physics, particularly optical detectors, which is one of the most crucial research areas today. The event also aimed to familiarize researchers and students with the latest developments in this field. For his part, Professor Dr. Ismat Ramzi Abdul Ghafour, Dean of the College of Science at the University of Anbar, emphasized the importance of this symposium in advancing scientific knowledge in the field of optical detectors. He pointed out that this area is of great interest globally and that the University of Anbar strives to create a stimulating scientific research and innovation environment. He also highlighted the significance of this symposium for postgraduate students, noting that such events broaden their scientific horizons and encourage innovation and creativity.

Professor Dr. Raid Abdul Wahab Ismail, Head of the Department of Applied Sciences, Presides Over the Examination Committee for a Master's Student at Al-Mustansiriyah University The Department of Physics – College of Science at Al-Mustansiriyah University held the master's thesis defence of postgraduate student Hala Radi Hassan for her research titled: "Preparation and Characterization of a Narrow-Band Infrared Photodetector Based on Porous Silicon Using the Electrochemical Etching Method." This study aimed to prepare porous silicon through photo-electrochemical etching and deposit three types of nanomaterials to fabricate photodetectors. The research involved the synthesis of CdTe, CIGS, and CuO nanoparticles using laser ablation in liquid under specific conditions. These materials' structural properties, surface morphology, and optical characteristics were analyzed to determine their functional properties. The findings of the thesis demonstrated a photodetector efficiency exceeding 110% at a wavelength of 800 nm. They confirmed the feasibility of operating all fabricated detectors within narrow, defined infrared spectral ranges.

The Mathematics and Computer Applications Branch organized a scientific visit to the Computer Science Department laboratories at the College of Science, Al-Nahrain University, to provide students with hands-on experience in robot programming using the latest programming languages. This visit is part of a series of activities organized by the branch to keep students continuously engaged with the latest technological advancements. During the visit, professors and faculty members from the Computer Science Department at Al-Nahrain University explained how to utilize modern software and technologies to meet market demands. Additionally, to create an atmosphere of camaraderie, fun, and engagement, students from the branch participated in the "My Department Wins" competition as part of the Winning Festival for Extracurricular Activities at the College of Science, Al-Nahrain University. The event also facilitated the exchange of scientific knowledge between students from both universities.

Within the framework of the University Academic Promotions Committee program at the University of Technology, the faculty member of the Branch of Biotechnology, Assistant Lecturer Huda Abdul Kareem Hussein, has been promoted to the rank of Lecturer. On this occasion, the department's administration, faculty members, and staff, in general, and the administration, faculty members, and staff of the Branch of Biotechnology, in particular, extend their heartfelt congratulations and best wishes to their colleague, Lecturer Huda Abdul Kareem Hussein. They wish her continued success, progress, and excellence in her academic journey in service of our beloved country and our esteemed university.

The Medical and Industrial Materials Science Branch awarded a Ph.D. degree to postgraduate student Saba Farhan Hathhout for her dissertation titled:
“Preparation and Study of the Structural, Optical, Mechanical, and Ionization Radiation Shielding Properties of a Glass System" “
The dissertation defence took place in the late Professor Dr. Abdul-Muttalib Ibrahim Al-Sheikh Hall within the department building. The defence committee consisted of:

• Professor Dr. Ghazi Kamal Saeed - University of Wasit / College of Basic Education (Chair)
• Professor Dr. Shehab Ahmed Zidan - Applied Sciences Department / Medical and Industrial Materials Science Branch (Member)
• Professor Dr. Enas Mohi Hadi - Applied Sciences Department / Medical and Industrial Materials Science Branch (Member)
Assistant Professor Dr. Sadeer Mowaffaq Majeed - Applied Sciences Department / Medical and Industrial Materials Science Branch (Member)
• Assistant Professor Dr. Bushra Husni Mousa - Applied Sciences Department / Medical and Industrial Materials Science Branch (Member)
• Professor Dr. Balqees Mohammed Diaa - Al-Turath University College (Member and Supervisor)
• Professor Dr. Haider Hammoud Naama - Al-Mustansiriyah University / College of Science / Department of Physics (Member)

This study aimed to prepare glass samples and convert them into glass-ceramic samples, compare their structural, optical, and mechanical properties, and evaluate their potential for radiation shielding applications. The glass samples were synthesized using the melt-quenching method, with the composition: (50−x)B2O3−25TeO2−25BaO−xDy2O3(50-x) B_2O_3 - 25TeO_2 - 25BaO - xDy_2O_3 Where x varied from 0 to 1.25 mol%, the prepared glass samples exhibited a yellowish transparent appearance. Characterization and Analysis: Morphological and Structural Analysis: Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) was used to examine the morphology of the glass samples. X-ray Diffraction (XRD) patterns confirmed the amorphous nature of all glass samples. Optical Properties: UV-Vis absorption spectra were analyzed in the 200–1100 nm wavelength range. Key optical parameters, including absorption coefficient and direct and indirect optical band gaps, were determined. Mechanical Properties: Ultrasonic wave velocity measurements were conducted at 5 MHz at room temperature to assess the mechanical behaviour of glass and glass-ceramic samples.Thermal Analysis: Differential Thermal Analysis (DTA) was performed from room temperature up to 800°C at a heating rate of 10°C/min to determine: Glass transition temperature (Tg), Onset crystallization temperature (Tx), Crystallization temperature (Tc), Melting temperature (Tm), Thermal stability range of the glass samples. Radiation Shielding Efficiency: Gamma-ray attenuation was evaluated using a sodium iodide (NaI(Tl)) detector and radioactive sources Cs-137 and Co-60. The results indicated that as the thickness of the shielding samples increased, the transmission factor decreased, leading to higher radiation protection efficiency for both glass and glass-ceramic samples.