Qatar University (QU) organized the Annual Research Forum and Exhibition 2025, featuring broad participation from researchers, academics, students, and partners from within and outside QU, under the sponsorship of several national institutions. This year, the forum focused on showcasing the latest research and scientific outputs addressing global issues with innovative solutions rooted in local contexts, aligning with the university's commitment to enhancing the role of scientific research in sustainable development, in accordance with Qatar National Vision 2030.
In his opening speech, His Excellency Dr. Omar Al-Ansari, President of QU, emphasized the university's role in research, stating, “I am delighted to welcome you all to QU's Annual Research Forum and Exhibition, a leading scientific event that embodies the university's commitment to supporting research and innovation. This forum is not just a scientific gathering but a platform that brings together students, researchers, partners, and decision-makers to exchange knowledge and showcase pioneering research achievements."
He added, “The continuity of this event reflects the university's vision and mission in supporting national priorities, advancing excellence in research, education, and community service, ensuring that this academic institution remains a beacon of innovation and a key partner in Qatar's scientific and economic advancement."
Dr. Al-Ansari highlighted that the forum's objectives align with Qatar National Vision 2030, stating, “Qatar seeks to empower society and achieve sustainable development through scientific research, implementing projects and initiatives that address challenges, positioning itself as a leader in crisis resolution, recovery, and reconstruction efforts."
Her Excellency Lolwah bint Rashid bin Mohammed Al-Khater, Minister of Education and Higher Education, underscored the importance of investing in research and education as fundamental pillars of progress. She said, “Universities play a crucial role in empowering communities and building capacities—key objectives of our national vision, which align with QU's strategies. The university has provided all necessary resources to empower youth, who represent the cornerstone of progress and the heartbeat of development. Investing in them guarantees a brighter future."
She also highlighted Qatar's role in supporting distressed communities, stating, “Qatar has swiftly mobilized to aid crisis-stricken communities, launching developmental and educational initiatives, ensuring safe havens, health services, education, protection, and psychological and financial support for millions of children, women, and youth. This has resulted in remarkable regional and global humanitarian success. Notably, the Education Above All Foundation—one of the world's leading education and development organizations—has provided quality educational programs to more than 17.2 million children and youth across over 65 countries."
Her Excellency added, “It is our collective responsibility as academics, researchers, and policymakers to continue supporting youth and providing them with an environment that meets their needs—not only to be part of the present but to lead the future. Science, research, and innovation are the keys to empowerment, enabling us to rise, build a resilient society, and confidently tackle contemporary challenges."
Prof. Aiman Erbad, Vice President for Research and Graduate Studies at QU, delivered a comprehensive presentation on research and graduate studies activities at the university, highlighting its achievements over the past years. He stated, “QU strives for leadership through strategic plans that align with national vision and sustainable development goals. The university prioritizes capacity building, youth support, and enhancing research and innovation, leading to a significant increase in research productivity in recent years across its key research pillars."
He pointed to the introduction of new research grants in social sciences and humanities, enabling research teams to explore vital areas of special significance to Qatar. These research pillars include crucial topics such as identity and family, along with subfields focusing on financial literacy, women, heritage, education, and economic and environmental sustainability.
Prof. Erbad also discussed advanced research projects within the research and graduate studies sector, such as the inauguration of the Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) Unit at the Laboratory Animal Research Center (LARC) and the Genetic Diversity of Palm Trees project at the Agricultural Research Station. He reaffirmed the university's commitment to building an inspiring educational and research infrastructure that serves the nation and enlightens future generations.
The forum also featured the opening of the Research Exhibition and Poster Exhibition, where researchers and students showcased their scientific projects, covering areas such as environmental sustainability, artificial intelligence technology, renewable energy, knowledge economy, and public health. The exhibition provided an opportunity for idea exchange and interaction with various sectors, including government and private institutions, to enhance research collaboration and foster greater integration between the university and society.
Several national institutions supported QU's Annual Research Forum and Exhibition. ExxonMobil and Qatar National Bank (QNB) were the gold sponsors, while the National Human Rights Committee was the silver sponsor of this distinguished research event.
Dr. Easa Al-Musleh, Vice President and Research Director at ExxonMobil Research Qatar (EMRQ), stated, “We are pleased to support QU's Annual Research Forum and Exhibition as a gold sponsor. This sponsorship reflects our longstanding partnership with the university, spanning over 20 years, and our shared commitment to progress and innovation."
Dr. Al-Musleh added, “The forum closely aligns with our work in nature-based solutions at the EMRQ, highlighting the crucial role of scientific research in tackling environmental challenges and building a sustainable future. Through this forum, our partnerships, and our contributions, we reaffirm our commitment to supporting Qatar National Vision 2030 and benefiting communities and ecosystems."
Commenting on QNB's participation as a gold sponsor, Mrs. Heba Al-Tamimi, Senior Executive Vice President of Communications at QNB Group, stated, “The world is witnessing a tremendous technological and digital transformation across many key sectors and industries. We take pride in being one of the leading financial institutions supporting a culture of research and innovation among our youth, who embody a global spirit of initiative and change-making."
She added, “We are delighted to sponsor this annual research forum and exhibition, which aims to stimulate research-based initiatives through this unique platform that fosters high-level discussions and knowledge exchange among stakeholders. This sponsorship will also contribute to enhancing academic, research, and professional collaboration with QU."
His Excellency Dr. Mohammed bin Saif Al-Kuwari, Vice-Chairman of the National Human Rights Committee, emphasized the importance of research methodologies and studies based on scientific principles in guiding various aspects of life, ensuring the ability to reach precise conclusions followed by recommendations grounded in objectivity and scientific accuracy, thereby contributing to the continuous progress of societies.
Dr. Al-Kuwari stated, “At the National Human Rights Committee, we always encourage the adoption of scientific research methodologies as credible and transparent tools. Our committee includes a dedicated research and studies department focused on fundamental human rights. Through this department, we have witnessed the critical role of scientific research in fostering a human rights culture within societies."
He added, “Our participation in the Annual Research Forum and Exhibition stems from our deep belief in the role of scientific research in driving societal progress and ensuring that communities uphold their fundamental rights and obligations toward one another."
The forum featured high-level discussion sessions addressing key topics, including “The University and the Strategy for Community Empowerment," in which senior officials, decision-makers, and researchers explored ways to enhance the societal impact of scientific research and mechanisms for fostering partnerships between academic institutions and various sectors to achieve sustainable development.
Another session, “The Future of Education, Research, and Innovation in Crisis-Affected Areas," highlighted the critical role of scientific research in supporting affected communities and enhancing opportunities for education and innovation in economically or humanitarian-challenged environments.
The forum concluded with an awards ceremony, recognizing winners of the Research Excellence Awards, QU Innovation Award, and special awards for research posters and the National Committee for the Prohibition of Weapons, honoring outstanding research contributions that developed innovative solutions to benefit society.
The Annual Research Forum and Exhibition 2025 reaffirmed its role as a strategic platform for supporting scientific research and innovation, fostering academic dialogue, and strengthening collaboration between researchers and various stakeholders, solidifying QU's position as a leading research institution locally and internationally.