IRO has been established to facilitate and manage research administrative services to support scientists, faculty and researchers in inter-departmental, multi-centered interdisciplinary research. The office serves as a centralized hub for coordinating interdisciplinary research activities by interlinking researchers of different disciplines at IAU, national/international researchers/partners to address strategically relevant research issues.
Vision
To nurture innovative research solution through interdisciplinary research, fostering innovation, collaboration, and impactful solutions to address complex scientific and societal challenges.
Mission
To promote and support interdisciplinary research across the university, facilitating collaborations among researchers from diverse disciplines. IRO strives to create an environment that nurtures creativity, fosters interdisciplinary dialogue, and empowers researchers to address pressing global issues through collaborative and impactful research.
Goal
To promote interdisciplinary research between inter-department units of IAU and other collaborative renowned universities
Objectives
- Foster Collaboration: Facilitate interdisciplinary collaborations by creating platforms and opportunities for researchers from different disciplines to connect, share ideas, and collaborate on innovative research projects.
- Enable Research Excellence: Support interdisciplinary research initiatives by providing resources, funding opportunities, and infrastructure to enable high-quality research that pushes the boundaries of knowledge and addresses complex societal challenges.
- Enhance Research Capacity: Develop and deliver training programs, workshops, and resources to enhance researchers' skills in interdisciplinary research methodologies, collaboration, and communication.
- Promote Funding Opportunities: Identify and disseminate information about funding opportunities specifically targeted at interdisciplinary research. Assist researchers in accessing and securing funding for interdisciplinary projects.
- Advocate for Interdisciplinary Research: Serve as an advocate for interdisciplinary research within the university and beyond, raising awareness of its value and impact. Engage with senior leadership, faculty, and external stakeholders to promote interdisciplinary research as a key driver of innovation and societal impact.
- Evaluate Impact: Develop mechanisms to evaluate the impact and outcomes of interdisciplinary research projects. Monitor progress, assess the effectiveness of interdisciplinary initiatives, and communicate success stories to stakeholders.
- Cultivate External Partnerships: Foster collaborations with external organizations, industry partners, and government agencies to enhance interdisciplinary research opportunities, leverage additional resources and expertise, and maximize the societal impact of interdisciplinary research.
- Communication and Engagement: Promote interdisciplinary research achievements and initiatives through various communication channels, including websites, newsletters, and social media. Engage with the university community and the broader public to raise awareness and understanding of interdisciplinary research.
Keys Research Areas
Health and wellness
Diabetes, Obesity, detection and diagnosis of cancer, infectious disease, Genome and epigenome of rare disease, heart disease, Screening and diagnostics relevant to pathogens, cancer detection, genome of rare disease, mental and sleeping disorders, Drug development, Emerging rejuvenation technologies
Sustainable Environment
Water research, Biodiversity, Net-zero emissions, Food sustainability, cooling technology.
Energy & Industrial Leadership
Crude oil into chemicals, clean hydrogen, innovation EV batteries, industrial robots, nuclear energy, renewable energy, autonomous technology, raw materials and products in industry.
Economies of the future
Space exploration, Smart cities, Artificial intelligence, Quantum computer and computing performance, Net-zero aviation, Automation of logistics, Robots to assist humans, Future of connectivity, Technologies for underwater exploration, Open RAN.
Key Measures and Evidence
1. Key Performance Indicators (KPIs):
IAU has adopted a set of institutional KPIs to monitor and assess the performance of interdisciplinary research. These KPIs are regularly reviewed and reported by the Deanship of Scientific Research and the Deanship of Quality and Academic Accreditation, ensuring that interdisciplinary efforts are quantitatively evaluated. The KPIs include:
- Funding allocated specifically to interdisciplinary research projects, both internal and external.
- Number of collaborations initiated with faculty and researchers from other universities, including both domestic and international institutions.
- Total number of interdisciplinary research projects launched and successfully completed.
- Volume and quality of resulting research outputs, measured by:
- Number of publications
- Citations received
- Publications in high-impact journals, particularly top-tier publications like Nature and Science.
- Participation in knowledge exchange programs, reflecting the application of interdisciplinary work in real-world contexts.
2. Collaboration and Knowledge Exchange:
IAU places strong emphasis on collaborative and interdisciplinary partnerships, which are facilitated by the Local and International Partnership unit. This unit fosters research engagement with:
- Academic institutions across Saudi Arabia and abroad.
- Governmental agencies and ministries.
- Industry partners and non-governmental organizations (NGOs).
These collaborations are designed to stimulate interdisciplinary research by bringing together expertise from different sectors and academic disciplines. Examples include joint projects in health informatics, sustainable urban development, biotechnology, and cybersecurity.
3. Research Centers and Institutional Infrastructure:
IAU has developed a robust research infrastructure to support and promote interdisciplinary innovation. These centers serve as a nucleus for cross-disciplinary scientific exploration by:
- Bringing together researchers from diverse colleges (Medicine, Engineering, Science, Computer Science, etc.) to work on joint thematic research clusters.
- Encouraging proposals that span multiple academic domains.
- Offering technical and financial support for interdisciplinary R&D efforts.
4. Research Funding and Productivity:
IAU recognizes funding success and research output as critical indicators of interdisciplinary research success. The university supports this by:
- Allocating competitive internal grants to research teams that demonstrate cross-departmental collaboration.
- Encouraging faculty to apply for joint research grants through national bodies such as the Saudi NIH, RDIA and the King Abdulaziz City for Science and Technology (KACST).
- Supporting international grant applications through strategic partnerships.
5. Strategic Research Partnerships:
To further advance interdisciplinary research, IAU has signed formal cooperation agreements with multiple universities and research centers, including:
- Majmaah and Shaqra Universities, for joint research programs, knowledge transfer, and cross-training of research teams.
- Institutional Knowledge Cooperation Agreement between IAU and Saudi Aramco to Establish the Aramco Chair for Cybersecurity at the College of Computer Science and Information Technology
- A memorandum of cooperation between IAU represented by the College of Applied Studies and Community Service and the Saudi Organization for Certified Public Accountants.
- A cooperation agreement between IAU represented by the Faculty of Engineering and the Ministry of Water and Agriculture.
- A cooperation agreement between the university represented by the College of Public Health and the Sharik Association for Health Research.
- A technology commercialization agreement between IAU and the Research Product Development Company (RPDC).
- Concluding a research cooperation contract between IAU represented by the Institute for Research and Medical Consultations and the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) in the United States of America.
- Concluding a research cooperation contract between IAU represented by the Institute for Research and Medical Consultations and the Franco e Piera Cutino Foundation in Italy.
- These agreements promote shared access to laboratories, data, faculty expertise, and co-supervision of postgraduate students working on interdisciplinary topics.
6. Alignment with National and Global Priorities:
IAU’s interdisciplinary research strategy is aligned with Saudi Vision 2030, which emphasizes innovation, health, environmental sustainability, and education reform. By integrating interdisciplinary themes into its long-term strategy, IAU contributes to global research challenges while ensuring relevance to local societal needs.
Physical Facilities for Interdisciplinary Research Teams
Rooted in the Kingdom’s Vision 2030 goals, IAU has developed robust infrastructure to support and sustain interdisciplinary collaboration among its faculties, research centers, and students. The university understands that solving complex real-world problems requires a convergence of expertise from different domains—hence, its proactive strategy in equipping all colleges with advanced laboratories and shared research facilities. IAU facilitates interdisciplinary collaboration through a structured and accessible framework:
- Centralized Research Equipment Access System: IAU has created an online platform where researchers can search, request, and book access to available equipment and laboratory spaces. This centralized system ensures that facilities are not siloed by departments, but rather open to all researchers, encouraging cross-disciplinary use of resources.
- Trained Technical Staff: Each core lab and college lab are supported by highly trained staff and technicians who aid in using equipment, optimizing protocols, and ensuring proper safety and compliance procedures.
- Workshops, Seminars, and Collaborative Events: The university organizes periodic training sessions and interdisciplinary seminars to enhance communication and knowledge exchange among researchers from various fields.
1. Basic and Applied Scientific Research Center (BASRC)
BASRC operates as a university-wide hub for advanced scientific research. It offers several shared core laboratories that provide analytical services and support research projects from various domains including medicine, engineering, natural sciences, and more. These include:
- Biotechnology Unit – Explores innovative biotechnological solutions for health, agriculture, and industry.
- Advanced Material Unit – Supports the development and testing of innovative materials, such as polymers, ceramics, and nanomaterials.
- Mathematical and Statistical Studies Unit– Applies mathematical and statistical methods to solve complex problems across diverse fields.
- Environmental Sustainability Unit – Promotes sustainable practices and solutions that protect and restore the environment.
- Catalysis and Energy Conversion Unit– Advances catalytic processes and energy conversion technologies for more efficient and sustainable energy use.
2. College-Level Laboratories (Accessible Across Disciplines)
Each college at IAU maintains dedicated laboratories that are frequently used by faculty and students from multiple departments for joint research.
College of Engineering
- Biomedical Testing Lab
- Laser Lab
- Materials Characterization Lab
- Biomedical Optics Lab
- Bioelectromagnetic Lab
- Non-destructive Testing Research Lab
- Structural Mechanics Lab
- Environmental Analysis Lab
- Solid and Hazardous Waste Research Lab
- Concrete and Strength of Materials Lab
- Biological Processes Research Lab
- Biotechnology Research Lab
- Environmental Microbiology Lab
- Photovoltaic Lab
- Wastewater Lab
- Air Pollution Lab
- Membrane technology and Electrochemical Lab
College of Pharmacy
- Integrative and Translational Pharmacology Research Lab
- Natural Products Research Lab.
- Small Molecule Drug Discovery and Analytical Chemistry lab
- Novel Formulations and Pharmaceutics Research Lab
College of Medicine & Health Professions
- Precision Medicine Research Lab.
- Physiology Lab.
- Microbial Genomics Research Lab (Mgl).
College of Dentistry
- Dental Biomaterial Research Lab
- Oral Microbiology Research Lab
- Oral Histopathology Research Lab
- Digital Dentistry Research Lab
College of Design
- Netaj Lab – This lab Helps users to convert their digital designs into physical and tangible models. The lab is equipped with Laser cutters, 3D Printers, and millers as well as other tools and materials to facilitate manual model making.
College of Architecture
- Concrete Material Lab
- Soil Lab
- Thermal Lab
- Acoustics Lab
- GIS Lab
- Lighting Lab
- NDT Lab
- 3D Modeling Lab
3. Specialized Research Centers
Institute for Research and Medical Consultations (IRMC): IRMC offers advanced labs for molecular diagnostics, stem cell research, medical imaging, clinical trials, genetic research, and biomarker discovery. This center works closely with the Colleges of Medicine, Dentistry, Pharmacy, and Applied Medical Sciences. IRMC contains the following research labs:
- Cell and Molecular Biology Research Lab
- Microbiology Research Lab
- Biomaterials and Nanotechnology Research Lab
- Bioimaging Research Lab
- Bioinformatics and Artifical Intelligence Research Lab
- Tissue Biology Research Lab
Translational Medical Research Center (TMRC): This center aims to convert laboratory discoveries into real-world medical treatments. The TMRC integrates expertise from medicine, molecular biology, bioinformatics, and engineering (e.g., in medical device development)
Advanced Engineering Manufacturing Center: Manufacturing and Fab Labs.
Administrative Support for Interdisciplinary Research Teams
At Imam Abdulrahman Bin Faisal University (IAU), the support for interdisciplinary research teams is comprehensive, reflecting the institution’s commitment to promoting innovative research across various academic fields. Below is an expanded and detailed breakdown of the administrative support available for such teams:
1. Grant Applications Assistance:
The university’s Research Support Office plays a crucial role in assisting interdisciplinary teams with the grant application process. This service includes:
- Identifying Funding Opportunities: The office helps researchers discover both internal and external fundingopportunities suited to interdisciplinary projects. This includes research councils, government agencies, private foundations, and international grants.
- Proposal Preparation: Researchers receive expert assistance in preparing comprehensive grant proposals. The support team helps ensure that applications are aligned with the funding body’s requirements, effectively addressing the objectives of interdisciplinary research.
- Submission and Follow-up: The administrative team assists with submitting proposals to the relevant authorities and provides ongoing support throughout the review process. They also help ensure timely submission and maintain communication with funding bodies for updates.
Benefits for Interdisciplinary Teams:
- Simplified access to diverse funding streams.
- Expertise in writing competitive, cross-disciplinary research proposals.
- Timely submission and continuous administrative follow-up.
2. Collaborative Project Coordination:
Collaborative interdisciplinary research projects often involve coordination between multiple departments, faculties, and even external institutions. IAU provides dedicated administrative support to facilitate this:
- Managing Collaborative Projects: The university assigns project managers or coordinators to help oversee the operational aspects of interdisciplinary research.
- Scheduling and Logistics: IAU organizes and manages the schedules for team meetings, joint workshops, and collaborative activities. It also arranges the logistics of research-related events such as conferences, symposiums, or fieldwork.
- Interdepartmental Collaboration: The administrative team actively works to connect researchers from different departments or faculties, fostering interdepartmental communication and collaboration.
Benefits for Interdisciplinary Teams:
- Streamlined coordination of complex, multi-disciplinary projects.
- Efficient scheduling of meetings and research activities across different academic units.
- Facilitation of interdepartmental collaboration and cross-pollination of ideas.
3. Access to Resources and Facilities:
IAU provides interdisciplinary research teams with access to a wide range of physical and technological resources necessary for successful project completion:
- Core Laboratories and Research Centers: The university has established advanced labs and research centers that are accessible to interdisciplinary teams. These include high-tech equipment, scientific tools, and specialized facilities that might be needed across disciplines (e.g., labs in engineering, biology, health sciences, etc.).
- Shared Facilities: IAU offers dedicated research spaces and co-working environments where interdisciplinary teams can collaborate and work in an open, supportive environment.
- Specialized Equipment: Teams can access specialized equipment and software platforms, such as simulation tools, research databases, and other technical resources, required to support their project needs.
- Easier access to state-of-the-art equipment and facilities.
- Ability to leverage shared resources to avoid duplication and foster cost-effective research.
- Access to high-tech tools across different academic fields.
Benefits for Interdisciplinary Teams:
4. Compliance with University Policies:
Ensuring that interdisciplinary research projects comply with IAU’s internal policies, as well as local and international regulations, is essential for the success of the projects:
- Ethical Guidelines: IAU assists researchers in obtaining approval for research involving human participants, animals, or sensitive data. The Ethics Committee ensures that all projects comply with ethical standards.
- Legal and Regulatory Compliance: The administrative team guides researchers in meeting compliance requirements related to intellectual property, data protection, and safety standards.
- Institutional Review Board (IRB): For projects requiring human subjects, the administrative team helps in navigating the IRB submission and review process to ensure ethical compliance.
- Assured compliance with research ethics and regulatory standards.
- Streamlined process for obtaining the necessary approvals to proceed with research.
- Minimization of legal and ethical risks in research execution.
Benefits for Interdisciplinary Teams:
5. Networking and Collaboration Opportunities:
One of the most valuable forms of administrative support is the opportunity for interdisciplinary researchers to network, share ideas, and establish partnerships both within and outside the university:
- Internal Networking: IAU organizes networking events, seminars, and interdisciplinary workshops that bring together faculty and researchers from various departments. These events promote intellectual exchange and spark new collaborations.
- External Collaborations: The university facilitates connections with industry partners, government agencies, and other academic institutions both locally and internationally. IAU encourages its researchers to participate in external networks, collaborative research, and consortia.
- International Partnerships: IAU is committed to developing partnerships with leading universities and institutions worldwide. Administrative support is provided to help researchers apply for international funding and research programs.
Benefits for Interdisciplinary Teams:
- Opportunities for collaboration and networking within a broader research ecosystem.
- Access to international partnerships, opening global research avenues.
- Increased visibility for interdisciplinary research projects and teams.
6. Workshops and Training:
IAU offers specialized workshops and training sessions tailored to enhance the collaborative research skills of interdisciplinary teams:
- Research Methodologies: Workshops on methodologies suitable for cross-disciplinary research, focusing on how to approach problems from multiple perspectives and integrate various techniques.
- Grant Writing Skills: Training in writing successful grant proposals, particularly for large, collaborative projects.
- Project Management: Administering workshops that focus on the best practices in managing multi-disciplinary projects, such as resource allocation, communication, and timeline management.
Benefits for Interdisciplinary Teams:
- Skill-building in managing complex, interdisciplinary research projects.
- Improved ability to write high-quality research proposals and reports.
- Strengthened teamwork and collaboration skills within diverse research teams.
7. Research Policies and Strategic Guidance:
The university’s administrative team provides strategic advice and guidance to ensure interdisciplinary research aligns with the broader goals of the institution:
- Alignment with Research Strategy: IAU ensures that interdisciplinary projects align with the university’s overall research agenda, which focuses on addressing regional and global challenges.
- Research Strategy Support: The administrative team helps teams develop a coherent strategy to achieve specific research goals, considering both academic and practical outcomes.
- Mentoring: IAU offers mentorship programs, particularly for early-career researchers, to provide guidance on how to approach interdisciplinary research and navigate institutional structures.
Benefits for Interdisciplinary Teams:
- Clear guidance on how to align research projects with university priorities.
- Strategic planning support to ensure research objectives are met.
- Opportunities for mentorship, fostering career development for emerging researchers.
8. Conflict Resolution and Mediation:
Interdisciplinary research often involves navigating differing perspectives and approaches, which can sometimes lead to conflicts within the team. IAU provides conflict resolution and mediation services to ensure smooth collaboration:
- Conflict Mediation: When disagreements arise, the university provides mediation services to help resolve issues and keep the project on track.
- Dispute Resolution Mechanisms: Formal procedures are in place for resolving disputes between team members or between departments, ensuring a fair and balanced approach.
Benefits for Interdisciplinary Teams:
- Quick and effective resolution of conflicts within teams.
- Ensure that research projects stay focused and productive, even when challenges arise.
Interdisciplinary Research and Faculty Promotion at IAU
At Imam Abdulrahman Bin Faisal University (IAU), interdisciplinary research plays a pivotal role in the institution's overarching goal of addressing regional and global challenges through collaborative and innovative academic inquiry.
1. The Role of Interdisciplinary Research in Faculty Promotion
The promotion system at IAU is closely aligned with the university’s strategic vision of becoming a leading research institution, as this is seen as essential for:
- Fostering innovation: Interdisciplinary research promotes creative and innovative problem-solving by integrating diverse academic perspectives and methodologies. Faculty members who contribute to such research are recognized for pushing boundaries and creating new knowledge.
- Enhancing collaboration: IAU encourages faculty to collaborate with colleagues across different departments and even other universities. This collaboration is considered an essential part of addressing complex problems and advancing knowledge in fields that require multifaceted approaches.
- Building global partnerships: The ability to collaborate on interdisciplinary research, particularly at an international level, is highly regarded. Interdisciplinary projects often lead to high-impact publications and collaborations with global experts, further elevating the university’s reputation and reach.
2. Support for Interdisciplinary Research Initiatives
IAU's research strategy actively supports interdisciplinary research initiatives by providing both administrative and financial support:
- Dedicated Research Funding: IAU provides dedicated funding to support interdisciplinary research projects. Faculty involved in these projects have access to research grants and financial support for equipment, consumables, travel, and other research-related expenses. The funding also extends to faculty who seek external grants for collaborative interdisciplinary projects.
- Global and Regional Collaborations: The university prioritizes the formation of research partnerships with other universities, research institutes, and industry leaders, both regionally and internationally. These partnerships provide additional support for faculty working on interdisciplinary research, including access to external funding and shared resources.
