The Qatar Research, Development and Innovation (QRDI) Council has officially opened submissions for six new scientific research calls under its National Research Program. This initiative invites researchers and innovators to submit proposals aimed at addressing critical national challenges across various sectors in Qatar.
At a Glance
- Opportunity Type: Scientific Research and Innovation Funding
- For: Researchers, Academic Institutions, Industry Professionals, and Startups
- Key Focus Areas: AI, Education, Biopharma, Heritage Preservation, Media, and Charity
- Application Deadline: February 18, 2026
- Location: Qatar
Scientific Research Calls Overview
The QRDI Council is driving the next wave of innovation in Qatar by launching a diverse set of research calls. Designed to support Qatar’s National Vision 2030, these calls aim to bridge the gap between academia, industry, and government. The program seeks to empower “investigator-led” research that results in impactful, evidence-based solutions for specific challenges identified by national stakeholders. This is a prime opportunity for innovators to contribute to Qatar’s knowledge-based economy while receiving support to advance scientific discovery.
Open Research Tracks
Applicants can submit proposals for the following six specific calls:
- Agentic Artificial Intelligence: Research focused on autonomous AI systems (in partnership with Qatar Financial Centre).
- Road to BioPharma: Developing the pharmaceutical and biotechnological landscape (in partnership with the Ministry of Public Health).
- Life-Long Education: Innovations in continuous learning and education accessibility (in partnership with Education Above All).
- Preserving Qatar’s Heritage: Technologies and methods to conserve national culture and history (in partnership with Qatar National Library).
- Modernizing Charitable Sector: enhancing efficiency and impact in charitable activities (in partnership with the Regulatory Authority for Charitable Activities).
- Media Horizons: Exploring the future of media and communication (in partnership with Al Jazeera Media Network).
Key Benefits
- Funding Access: Secure financial support for investigator-led research projects.
- Strategic Partnerships: Collaborate with leading national entities like the Ministry of Public Health, QFC, and Al Jazeera.
- Resource Access: Utilize resources designed to drive groundbreaking research in healthcare, digital technology, and society.
- Impact: Direct contribution to solving key national priorities in Qatar.
Eligibility Criteria
According to the QRDI Council, the program is open to a broad spectrum of the R&D ecosystem:
- Students and individual researchers.
- Academic institutions.
- Industry professionals and private sector companies.
- Entrepreneurs and startups engaged in R&D.
How to Apply
Proposals must be submitted through the QRDI Portal, “Innolight.” Ensure you review the specific requirements for your chosen track before submitting.
- Submission Deadline: February 18, 2026
- Apply Here: Innolight Portal
About QRDI Council
The Qatar Research, Development and Innovation (QRDI) Council is a distinguished entity leading advanced research and global collaborative innovation in Qatar. Operating under the ethos of “locally empowered, globally connected,” the Council is actively shaping the innovation component of Qatar’s economic diversification goal. QRDI Council works to attract global talent and solidify Qatar’s position as a premier international hub for Research and Development.
Learn More: QRDI Council
