KSU Launches Second Edition of Waed Research Program

King Saud University has launched the second edition of its Waed research support program for 2026, aimed at empowering new faculty members and helping them build strong research careers. The program, run by the university's Deanship of Scientific Research, supports 117 research projects submitted by 117 faculty members.

Waed primarily targets new faculty at the rank of Assistant Professor who have been appointed for less than two years, while those with more than two years of service may be accepted subject to program capacity. The second edition builds on a first round that supported 100 faculty members and resulted in numerous workshops, conference participation, and published research papers.

Program Goals

The 2026 edition focuses on helping new researchers establish their research laboratories and build a productive research environment. It also provides mentoring so early-career faculty can develop a solid research base, manage projects, and work effectively within research teams. In addition, the program encourages participation in scientific conferences, workshops, and advanced statistics courses, while strengthening collaboration with experienced experts inside the university.

To take part, the lead researcher must be a KSU faculty member at Assistant Professor rank, joined by a qualified expert from the university at Professor or Associate Professor level in the same field. Applicants must submit a research proposal that meets program criteria and aligns with national priority areas.

Participants are required to attend at least two workshops in the first year, submit a list of needed research equipment, and complete an advanced statistics course or attend an approved international conference. Each project must publish at least one scientific paper in a journal indexed in SCIE or SSCI with an impact factor, with financial support offered for a second paper. A final report summarizing training and activities is also required.

The initiative reflects the university's continued investment in scientific research and in nurturing the next generation of Saudi researchers, offering practical support at a critical early stage of their academic careers.

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