The Annual Research Forum 2026
Theme: “Innovating Healthcare: Bridging Research and Practice”
- 27-28 January 2026
Sidra Medicine is proud to host its Annual Research Forum 2026, from 27 to 28 January 2026 in Doha, Qatar.
ARF 2026, built around the theme “Innovating Healthcare: Bridging Research and Practice,” will bring together thought leaders, researchers, healthcare professionals, and key industry stakeholders from across the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) and MENA region.
The prestigious two-day event will feature a series of keynote addresses, research presentations, panel discussions, and networking opportunities, all designed to foster knowledge exchange and drive meaningful innovation in healthcare.
ARF 2026 marks an exciting milestone in our commitment to advancing scientific discovery and fostering collaboration across disciplines. We are proud to provide a platform for meaningful dialogue that will inspire new ideas and partnerships.
Objectives
- Provide a platform for showcasing research by Sidra Medicine staff and trainees
- Strengthen collaboration among national and international research leaders.
- Highlight Qatar’s research infrastructure and resources.
- Promote the application of research findings in clinical settings.
- Explore the transformative role of Artificial Intelligence in healthcare research and practice.
Welcoming Remarks
Organizing Committee
DAY 1: Program
Day 1: Sidra Medicine Trainee Research Symposium and Workshop
Executive Summary of Day 1
Day 1 will focus on engaging and empowering Sidra Medicine trainees through research presentations and a thematic workshop. This provides an opportunity to showcase their work, gain valuable feedback, and participate in skill-building activities aligned with the ARF theme.
Detailed Agenda for Day 1
| Time | Activity | Description |
|---|---|---|
| 08:00-08:30 | Registration and Opening Remarks | Welcome address by the Organizing Committee |
| 08:30-9:00 | Sidra Medicine Research Pathway | SOC chair speech |
| 09:00-12:00 | Trainee Research Presentations | Oral presentations by selected trainees |
| 12:00-13:00 | Lunch and Networking | Opportunity for informal discussions |
| 13:00-14:45 | Thematic Workshop
|
Interactive session on Artificial Intelligence in Healthcare |
| 14:45 | Closing Remarks | Summary of the day and next steps |
Day 2: Main Event
| Time | Activity | Description |
|---|---|---|
| 07:30-08:30 | Registration and Breakfast | Networking opportunity over breakfast |
| 08:30-09:00 | Opening Remarks | Welcome address and overview of the day |
| 09:00-09:45 | Keynote Speech: “Science Without Borders: Harnessing Regional Strengths for Global Health Impact” | Prof. Alaa El-Hussuna, MD, PhD (Denmark) |
| 9:45 – 10:00 | Discussion | |
| 10:00-10:15 | “Enabling Research Excellence: The Role of the Research Operations Office at Sidra Medicine.” | Marla Beerens Director – Research Operations, Innovation and Strategy |
| 10:15 – 10:20 | Discussion | |
| 10:20 – 10:40 | Translational Research Programs at Sidra Medicine | Dr Sonia Davila, PhD Executive Director – Translational Medicine |
| 10:40 – 10:45 | Discussion | |
| 10:45 – 11:45 | Oral Abstract Presentations (Session 1) | Presentations by selected researchers |
| 11:45-13:00 | Lunch and Networking | |
| 13:00-13:45 | Oral Abstract Presentations (Session 2) | Continuation of selected presentations |
| 13:45-14:45 | Panel Discussion | Dialogue between research leaders on Research collaboration and innovation. |
| 14:45-15:00 | Award Ceremony | Recognition of outstanding research contributions. |
| 15:00 | Closing Remarks | Summary of the forum and future directions. |
Call for Abstracts
Sidra Medicine invites submissions for oral and poster presentations aligned with the conference theme. Researchers and trainees from diverse healthcare and biomedical fields are encouraged to apply.
Submission Deadline: 30th November 2025
Abstract Topics Include:
- Clinical and translational research
- Artificial Intelligence applications in healthcare
- Medical education innovations
- Patient outcomes and healthcare delivery
Submission Guidelines:
- Maximum 300 words
- Include background, methods, results, and conclusion
- Specify presentation preference (oral/poster)
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