Doha: Hamad Medical Corporation (HMC) and Qatar University (QU) have signed a new agreement to establish a Joint Research Funding Initiative, aimed at strengthening collaboration between the two institutions and supporting research that addresses national health priorities.
According to Qatar News Agency, the new funding initiative is designed to support collaborative research projects that align with the strategic priorities of both organizations and contribute to Qatar's broader research and healthcare objectives. This initiative will complement existing internal research funding programs within both institutions.
Dr. Jassim Al Suwaidi, Chief of Scientific, Academic, and Faculty Affairs at HMC, commented on the agreement, emphasizing its importance in fostering cooperation between the organizations. He highlighted that the initiative would create opportunities for clinicians, researchers, and academics to collaborate on projects addressing national health priorities, fostering innovation, building research capacity, and generating evidence to improve patient outcomes and healthcare delivery in Qatar.
Professor Aiman Erbad, Vice President for Research and Innovation at Qatar University, stated that the agreement underscores the deep cooperation between the institutions, reflecting a shared commitment to advancing research and innovation. The initiative provides a platform for interdisciplinary collaboration, facilitating the translation of scientific knowledge into practical solutions that enhance population health and improve healthcare services.
The agreement includes the establishment of a joint HMC-QU committee to oversee the initiative, ensuring that funded projects deliver meaningful impact. The committee will identify annual research priority areas, evaluate research proposals, select projects for funding, and monitor the progress and outcomes of funded research. It is anticipated that more than three collaborative research projects will be supported annually.
This collaboration further strengthens efforts in developing Qatar's healthcare workforce and research environment. HMC and QU have worked together extensively to provide clinical education and training opportunities for students across medicine, pharmacy, health sciences, and related disciplines. They have also supported joint research projects, co-funded initiatives, PhD research, faculty exchange programs, and collaborative efforts to increase research capacity and scientific output.