An interview with Suzanne Berger

Professor of Political Science at MIT and Director, MIT-France Program MIT France

What will be the main thrust of MIT’s research in the coming years? Research is emphasizing the convergence between biology, the information sciences and engineering. A “new frontier” is emerging where there’s a lot of new work to be done. A second priority is energy, where MIT is focusing all of its expertise, not just in physics, geology and engineering but also in the social sciences. Our recent relationship with Total is part of this process and is strategically important for our university. What is the purpose of the MIT International Science and Technology Initiatives, which you head? MIT International Science and Technology Initiatives (MISTI) partners with companies, government institutions and NGOs to promote more international experience in industry, education and research. Created in September 2000, the MIT-France Program is the sixth program introduced by MISTI, following initiatives in Japan, China, Germany, India and Italy. What did you learn from organizing two one-week seminars for Total senior executives, in partnership with Université Total? It’s quite interesting to see how much the Total executives who came to MIT agreed with our own experts concerning the future of energy and the close interrelationship between the nuclear power, coal, oil and gas and other energy sectors. Both sides were able to discuss these critical topics with open minds. What’s more the week-long seminar has led to other outcomes, such as increased contact with Total’s recruiters and R&D teams and the introduction of a new scholarship program.

Giving African Students the Opportunity to Study at MIT Total and the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) signed an agreement in the spring of 2006 under which Total will initially cover tuition and expenses for three students from western Africa. The prestigious American university will select the candidates in accordance with its own high standards. Thanks to the Total scholarship, the students will be able to study and live in Cambridge, MIT’s hometown, during their studies.