Dubai: Gulf Medical University (GMU) and Thumbay Group have announced an extension of the submission deadline for the Thumbay International Research Grant 2025/26, now open until December 15, 2025. The extension gives researchers, academicians, and healthcare innovators across the world additional time to refine and submit proposals for one of the UAE’s most prestigious research funding programs.
Prof. Dr. Manda Venkatramana, Chancellor of GMU, highlighted the initiative’s role in advancing innovation and global collaboration in healthcare research.
“At GMU, we believe that innovation begins where disciplines intersect. The Thumbay International Research Grant provides a powerful platform for researchers to explore bold ideas, connect across sectors, and translate science into solutions that improve lives. Extending the submission deadline enables us to welcome even more high-quality proposals from around the world,” he said.
With a total grant value of AED 3 million, the program aims to support pioneering projects in medical, clinical, and interdisciplinary research that can drive measurable improvements in patient outcomes, healthcare systems, and medical education.
Focus Areas for 2025/26 Cycle
The upcoming research cycle targets high-impact fields shaping the future of healthcare, including:
- Precision Oncology & Personalized Immunotherapy
- Liquid Biopsy & Tumor Circulating DNA
- Drug Discovery & Pharmacogenomics
- Artificial Intelligence in Healthcare
- Veterinary Medicine & Zoonotic Research
- Health Systems, Management & Economics
- Public Health & Digital Health Strategies
- Innovation in Medical Education
Strong Global Participation in Previous Cycle
The first cycle of the Thumbay International Research Grant drew 192 applications from 34 universities worldwide, with 14 projects selected for funding after a rigorous evaluation process.
Among the awardees were Harvard Medical School and University of Arizona (USA), University of Waterloo (Canada), University of Regensburg (Germany), Policlinico Ospedali Riuniti (Italy), and Erasmus University Rotterdam (Netherlands).
From the MENA region, Lebanese University, Beirut Arab University, and Alexandria University were selected, alongside UAE-based institutions such as RAK Medical and Health Sciences University, Mohammed Bin Rashid University of Medicine and Health Sciences, Ajman University, University of Sharjah, and Al Ain University.
The program reinforces GMU’s mission to foster international collaboration and innovation in healthcare research, uniting institutions worldwide in advancing science and patient care.
Spring 2025–26 Admissions Now Open
Gulf Medical University has also announced Spring 2025–26 admissions, with classes beginning in January 2026. The university offers a wide range of programs including:
- Diploma in Pharmacy Technician
- Bachelor’s Degrees in Nursing, Pharmacy, Optometry, Applied AI in Healthcare, Healthcare Management, and Dental Surgery
- Master’s and Postgraduate Diploma programs in Public Health, Drug Discovery, Critical Care Nursing, and Renal & Dialysis Nursing
- Dual PhD in Health Professions Education
GMU continues to position itself as one of the region’s most dynamic hubs for medical education, research, and innovation.
For more information on the Thumbay International Research Grant or admissions, visit www.gmu.ac.ae