At the first meeting of the Elite Scientific Club of Zanjan University of Medical Sciences, the synergy between the research capacities of leading scholars and the University’s Global Impact Unit (GIU) was emphasized as a driving force for transforming science into sustainable global solutions.

According to Webda–Zanjan, the inaugural meeting of the Elite Scientific Club of Zanjan University of Medical Sciences was held on 16 December 2025, with the participation of distinguished faculty members. The session focused on outlining the objectives and programs of the Club aimed at enhancing scientific authority and the internationalization of research activities. The meeting took place at the conference hall of the Roozbeh International Conference Center of the University.

During the meeting, Dr. Mehrdad Hamidi, Vice Chancellor for Research and Technology, presented the rationale behind the establishment of the Elite Scientific Club and highlighted its pivotal role in strategically advancing the University’s research agenda.Subsequently, the Head of the University’s Global Impact Unit (GIU) delivered a strategic presentation, underscoring the necessity of moving beyond purely national research toward studies with international impact, while also addressing existing challenges in global scientific collaboration.

Dr. Hamid Rashidzadeh emphasized the need to create a coherent structure for translating knowledge into global solutions and increasing the University’s participation in impactful, policy-oriented joint projects.Highlighting the role of Elite Scientific Club members as scientific ambassadors of the University, he invited them to share their international networks and propose joint research initiatives in order to contribute to the advancement of scientific diplomacy and the enhancement of the University’s global standing.During the session, the missions and programs of the Global Impact Unit were outlined, including increasing the international impact of research, developing strategic partnerships, improving the University’s position in reputable global ranking systems, and aligning research activities with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

In addition, the services provided by the Unit—such as matching faculty research capacities with international institutions, supporting cross-border research projects, facilitating the signing of memoranda of understanding, organizing specialized workshops, and establishing a global collaboration opportunities database—were introduced to Club members.In the continuation of the meeting, Akbar Mansouri, Head of International Rankings Affairs, presented a report on the University’s current status in major global ranking systems and discussed future strategies for improving its position.This meeting is regarded as the official starting point for structured collaboration among the University’s leading faculty members toward achieving scientific authority and the internationalization of research activities.