NRI Director
Prof. Dr. Hossam Elsersawy is the Director of the Nile Research Institute (NRI) at the National Water Research Centre (NWRC) in Egypt. He holds a Ph.D. in Civil Engineering from Cairo University (1996–2001), specializing in Hydraulics and Irrigation Engineering, and an M.Sc. in Hydraulics and Hydrology Engineering from University College Galway (UCG), Ireland (1994–1996). With over 30 years of experience in hydraulic engineering, river engineering, sediment transport, and water management.
In recent years, Prof. Elsersawy has been particularly focused on projects related to sediment management, river restoration, and sustainable water use along the Nile River. His research and consultancy are focused on the numerical modelling of hydraulics and sediment transport in the fluvial environment. He has also led many national and international projects focused on water resource management, flood control, and environmental protection in Egypt and beyond.
One of the 12 scientific pillars of the National Water Research Center
NRI Overview
The Nile Research Institute is one of the research institutes of the National Water Research Center, which includes twelve multidisciplinary institutes in the field of water. The institute was established in 1975 under the name of the High Dam Side Effects Research Institute, focusing on studying the morphological and environmental impacts of the construction of the High Dam. As the institute's work expanded, its name was changed to the Nile Research Institute in mid-1990. The institute's goal is to protect and develop the Nile River and Lake Nasser in a scientifically sustainable manner. This is achieved through data collection and analysis, conducting studies, implementing pioneering projects, and collaborating with local, regional, and international organizations that share similar interests.
The main mission of the institute is to conduct high-level applied research to inform policy-making in the management and development of water resources in Egypt. The institute works in several areas related to the Nile River through its four departments: River Engineering, Hydraulic Structures Protection, Water Quality, and Lake Nasser.
Area of Expertise
The Nile Research Institute (NRI) operates under the National Water Research Center of Egypt’s Ministry of Water Resources and Irrigation. The Institute is dedicated to the sustainable management and development of the Nile River and Lake Nasser through integrated scientific research and applied engineering solutions.
Its expertise includes advanced field surveying, hydraulic and hydrodynamic modeling, river morphology and sediment studies, riverbank protection design, water quality monitoring, reservoir management, and GIS and remote sensing applications. Through multidisciplinary research and technical consultancy, NRI supports evidence-based decision-making and capacity building within Egypt’s water resources sector.
NRI Vision
To be a regional center of excellence in applied research, innovation, and sustainable management of river systems, with a particular focus on the Nile River, by providing scientific knowledge, advanced technologies, and integrated solutions that support the protection, development, and optimal utilization of Egypt’s water resources.
CLEQM Mission
The Nile Research Institute (NRI) is one of the 12 scientific pillars of the National Water Research Center, committed to safeguarding and enhancing the sustainability of the Nile River system through applied scientific research, advanced monitoring programs, and innovative technological solutions.
The Institute conducts comprehensive investigations of the Nile’s hydraulic, morphological, and environmental processes, while systematically assessing the impacts of natural variability and human interventions. By integrating state-of-the-art numerical modeling, GIS and remote sensing applications, and rigorous field-based measurements.
NRI develops evidence-based strategies that support sustainable water resources management. In addition, the Institute provides technical solutions and policy guidance to decision-makers and fosters regional and international cooperation to strengthen the long-term resilience, security, and vitality of the River Nile.