The Deanship of Scientific Research at Jordan University of Science and Technology (JUST) organized a research forum for externally funded projects titled *"From Idea to Funding: Towards a Sustainable Strategic Impact."* The event aimed to boost external funding opportunities for research projects, build researchers' capacity to develop competitive proposals, and achieve sustainable developmental and research outcomes.
The forum was inaugurated by Professor Muna Abu-Dalo, Vice President of the University, on behalf of the University President, Professor Khalid El-Salem. The opening was attended by a distinguished group of academics, experts, and representatives from research institutions, the public and private sectors, and organizations supporting research and innovation.
In her opening remarks, Prof. Abu-Dalo underscored the importance of investing in scientific research and innovation and directing research capabilities toward high-quality projects capable of attracting funding and delivering tangible, lasting impact. She noted that the forum reflects the university’s commitment to building an integrated research ecosystem linking ideas, funding, partnerships, application, and impact—strengthening the role of scientific research in addressing national challenges, advancing development, and driving a knowledge-based economy.
For her part, the Dean of Scientific Research, Prof. Heyam Dalky, affirmed that the forum aligns with the university’s strategic focus on developing an integrated research ecosystem. She highlighted that the university continues to bolster its support for scientific research and project funding, alongside expanding its efforts to secure external funding and forge research partnerships, helping translate research outcomes into impactful applications and solutions.
She also emphasized the necessity of strengthening local and international research partnerships and aligning scientific inquiries with national priorities. Furthermore, she pointed to the growing international collaboration in the university's research output and its success in attracting international grants and research projects, which enhances researchers' competitiveness and supports turning research findings into solutions with sustainable scientific, economic, and societal impact.
The forum featured presentations on two externally funded research projects at JUST as part of the "Projects Showcase" segment, highlighting their external impact, sustainable outcomes, and contributions to expanding the university’s international presence and partnerships. The event also hosted three panel discussions addressing research funding mechanisms, partnerships, and international collaboration opportunities:
* **Panel 1: The Research Funding Landscape and Support Mechanisms for Projects and Innovation**
*Moderator:* Prof. Dr. Nihaya Al-Sheyab
*Panelists:* Prof. Dr. Tareq Mukattash (Director of the Scientific Research and Innovation Support Fund at the Higher Council for Science and Technology), Prof. Dr. Tarek Tutunji (Dean of Scientific Research at Al-Hussein Technical University and Director of the Hamdi Mango Center for Scientific Research), Prof. Dr. Elizabeth New, and Ms. Alaa Al-Sharman (Senior Research and Innovation Specialist at the Abdul Hameed Shoman Foundation).
* **Panel 2: Strengthening Partnerships Between Scientific Research and the Industrial and Technological Sectors**
*Moderator:* Dr. Ahmed Bani Younes
*Panelists:* Eng. Mohammad Abu Hazim (Director of Mining and Quarries at the Jordan Phosphate Mines Company), Eng. Radi Al-Wardat (Jordan Design and Development Bureau - JODDB), Eng. Nidal Al-Bitar (Information and Communications Technology Association of Jordan - int@j), and Eng. Mohammad Al-Akour (First Seed Company).
* **Panel 3: Funding and Collaboration Opportunities via International Programs and Grants**
*Moderator:* Prof. Fahmi Abu Al-Rub
*Panelists:* Prof. Ahmad Abu-El-Haija (Director of the National Erasmus+ Office), Prof. Abdullah Al-Abdullah (IREX Program), Dr. Esmat Al-Karadsheh (Regional Coordinator for the INTERREG Program), and Dr. Anas Abu Ghanmi (Ministry of Planning and International Cooperation).
The forum concluded by presenting key findings and actionable recommendations from the panel sessions, emphasizing the vital need to move scientific research from the idea stage to fundable, viable projects. The recommendations also stressed strengthening partnerships with institutions, the private sector, and international bodies to boost the competitiveness of research projects and maximize their impact locally and globally.
At the close of the event, participants were honored for their valuable contributions in enriching the discussions and advancing opportunities for collaborative scientific research and innovation.
