WCMC-Q's biomedical research program wins 20 NPRP grants

WCMC-Q won a total of 20 grants for their projects, many of which will support collaborative efforts with renowned laboratories around the world. Among the 20 projects awarded, WCMC-Q researchers will take the lead on 10 and will contribute well over 50% of the work to the remainder. Of the total NPRP funding available this cycle, WCMC-Q was granted about 21% to spearhead Qatar's biomedical research program.

The money will support vital research into stem cells, molecular medicine, genomics, cancer, diabetes and basic health as well as other fields relevant to regional and global needs.

Dr Javaid Sheikh, Interim Dean and Vice Dean for Research at WCMC-Q said:

"The boost to our biomedical research program with this funding is very encouraging. Our success rate was good. The NPRP process itself is well organized with knowledgeable scientists worldwide conducting peer reviews of the projects submitted."

"The NPRP funding mechanism, in addition to other QNRF programs, increases our ability to recruit top-tier scientists given the robust extramural funding stream. With this kind of support, individual investigators can initiate novel research programs and do it at a serious level that's competitive internationally, leading to contributions scientifically through publications, new knowledge and patents."

"We're excited to move forward with these projects and to increasingly contribute to the growth and establishment of biomedical research in Qatar," said Khaled Machaca, PhD, Associate Dean for Basic Science Research and Professor of Physiology and Biophysics.

The number of NPRP grants allocated to medical and health sciences research ranked second after engineering and technology among all categories awarded, showing the country's strong dedication to advances in this sector. The support will help build the momentum as world-class researchers look to Qatar as a place to conduct their work and pursue their careers.