Rania Al-Zou’bi
- Country of Origin: Jordan
- Home University: Jordan University of Science and Technology
- Host University & Country: Delft University of Technology - Netherlands
- PhD Title: Water–Energy–Food Nexus for Improving the Management of Transboundary Basins
- Year of Completion: 2027
PhD Overview
My research, “Water–Energy–Food Nexus for Improving the Management of Transboundary Basins,” focuses on the Yarmouk River Basin, shared by Jordan and Syria. It aims to strengthen cooperation over shared water resources by providing economic and policy-relevant insights into the potential implications of existing and future policies at national and regional levels. Drawing on my professional expertise in water policy and program management, the research bridges academic knowledge and practical policymaking to support more sustainable and cooperative management of shared resources. It is motivated by the significant challenges faced by downstream countries in water-scarce regions in promoting effective cooperation over transboundary resources.
Sustainability Goals
- Clean Water and Sanitation
- Partnerships for the Goals
- Zero Hunger
About Me
I am a PhD researcher in Water Management at Delft University of Technology (TU Delft), bringing more than 15 years of experience across engineering consultancy, international development, and public policy. My professional journey, from engineering design to policy planning and implementation, has strengthened my conviction that research and policy must work hand in hand. Research shaped by policymakers’ needs can accelerate the development of practical solutions to real-world challenges.
My research examines the water–energy–food nexus in transboundary river basins, generating economic and policy insights to support more informed and cooperative planning. My work seeks to break down sectoral silos and promote an integrated understanding of shared resources. In water-scarce regions, particularly for downstream countries, cooperation must extend beyond technical dialogue and data sharing towards realistic and equitable benefit-sharing approaches that create tangible value for all countries involved.