Global Spotlight on Ajman: Thumbay International Research Grant Awards 14 Groundbreaking Projects

Ajman, UAE – April 15, 2025 — The global medical research community turned its eyes to Ajman as Gulf Medical University (GMU) celebrated a historic milestone: the successful conclusion of the first cycle of the Thumbay International Research Grant (TIRG). In a landmark event held during GMU’s Annual Research Day, the TIRG award-winning projects were announced, solidifying the university’s role as a rising powerhouse in UAE medical research funding and global healthcare innovation.

Launched by GMU in partnership with Thumbay Group UAE, the Thumbay International Research Grant was designed to catalyze transformative healthcare research, emphasizing innovation, interdisciplinary collaboration, and real-world impact. Leading academics, clinicians, and policymakers participated in the event, celebrating GMU research day highlights and the university's expanding role on the global research map.

TIRG: Elevating Ajman to Global Research Prominence
Representing His Highness Sheikh Ammar bin Humaid Al Nuaimi, Crown Prince of Ajman, H.E. Dr. Sheikh Majeed Bin Saeed Al Nuaimi, Chairman of the Ruler’s Court, presented the awards, underlining the strategic importance of this initiative to both the emirate and the nation.

From 192 competitive proposals across 34 universities worldwide, 14 pioneering projects were selected. These winning proposals span high-impact areas such as precision medicine projects 2025, AI in healthcare research, digital health, public health, and medical education.

TIRG Award-Winning Projects: Driving Change Across Continents
Harvard Medical School leads a project using innovative modules like Rx Bricks to tackle student anxiety in neurology.

The University of Arizona will apply AI to the Global Flu View platform to predict epidemiological trends.

In population health, University of Waterloo’s MENAULAS project focuses on community-led elder health assessments in the MENA region.

Regensburg University (Germany) and Policlinico Ospedali Riuniti (Italy) target cancer immunotherapy with precision-based approaches.

RAK Medical and Health Sciences University advances nanoparticle delivery in treating triple-negative breast cancer.

Mohammed Bin Rashid University explores immune checkpoint inhibitors by disrupting the TRIM28 complex.

Ajman University and University of Sharjah explore regenerative medicine and immunotherapy efficacy in pancreatic tumors.

Lebanese University and Beirut Arab University investigate minimally invasive dental implants and carcinogenic outcomes from waterpipe use.

Alexandria University in Egypt integrates AI with clinical data to personalize hepatocellular carcinoma treatment.

Erasmus University Rotterdam explores how AI tools like ChatGPT can enhance clinical reasoning in medical education.

Al Ain University (UAE) studies cancer metabolism to customize breast cancer chemotherapy.

GMU's Vision: Research Without Borders
Dr. Thumbay Moideen, Founder and President of Thumbay Group, emphasized, “We see research as a moral responsibility. With this grant, Gulf Medical University research is evolving into a regional and global hub for medical breakthroughs.” He announced plans to increase the grant pool from AED 3 million to AED 10 million in three years, underscoring GMU’s long-term commitment to international medical research grants and innovation.

Prof. Manda Venkatramana, Acting Chancellor, highlighted the program's global reach and academic excellence. At the same time, Prof. Saleem Chouib, Vice Chancellor for Research, praised the scientific rigor and potential impact of the selected projects.

Looking Ahead: A New Era for UAE Medical Research Funding
This inaugural round has placed Ajman in the global spotlight, establishing TIRG as a premier platform for funding top-funded research in Ajman and beyond. It supports the UAE’s vision to become a leading knowledge economy and global research hub.

As GMU gears up for the next cycle, researchers worldwide are encouraged to explore collaboration opportunities. With its strategic investments and growing reputation, GMU is not only redefining Gulf Medical University research but also setting new standards in precision medicine, AI in healthcare, and interdisciplinary innovation.

Stay tuned to GMU’s official channels for updates on the upcoming Thumbay International Research Grant cycle, where bold ideas find support, and global health challenges find solutions.