KOYA | University Media 

In line with its strategic roadmap to internationalize scientific research and forge global academic alliances, the Grants and Research Support Department at the Deanship of Research and Development Centers at Koya University, in collaboration with the International Center for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology (ICGEB) in Italy, successfully organized a joint virtual workshop via the Zoom platform.

Workshop Objectives and Openings

Held on Tuesday, July 7, 2026, the workshop aimed to provide a vital platform for Koya University's faculty members and researchers to explore prestigious international opportunities, including specialized training fellowships, scientific meetings, research grants, and collaborative funding programs offered by ICGEB.

The event commenced with welcoming remarks by the Dean of the Deanship of Research and Development Centers at Koya University, Asst. Prof. Dr. Halgurd Sarhang Maghdid, alongside Dr. Soumaya Tali Youssef, the designated ICGEB representative for Iraq from the Ministry of Agriculture. Both speakers outlined the core objectives of the workshop and emphasized the importance of global scientific networks.

Key Thematic Panels

The workshop featured informative sessions delivered by prominent international experts:

• Introduction to ICGEB & Iraq's Membership: Ms. Tijana Delic presented an overview of the immense benefits of ICGEB membership and highlighted Iraq's official participation and quota within the organization.
• Application Guidelines & Research Overview: Dr. Emanuele Buratti, the Scientific Coordinator of ICGEB, provided a comprehensive guide on applying for various international programs and offered an overview of the cutting-edge research projects conducted at the center.
• The Role of the Liaison Officer: Dr. Nadia Al-Zaheri, the ICGEB Liaison Officer for Iraq based at the University of Pavia, Italy, elaborated on the coordination mechanisms aimed at bridging the gap between Iraqi scientists and international research funding.

The presentations sparked engaging discussions, receiving widespread acclaim and active participation from the university's academic community.

Alignment with Koya University's Strategic Pillars

This international collaboration marks the practical execution of Koya University's Strategic Plan. It directly advances the fourth pillar, "Internationalization and Global Visibility," by establishing institutional ties with world-class scientific centers. Furthermore, it reinforces the second pillar, "Research and Innovation," which forms the core mandate of the Directorate of Research and Development Centers to empower researchers, elevate scientific inquiries, and secure competitive international research grants.