WANA Scientific Network

Date: 4 May 2025 Venue: Kish Island, Iran Executive Summary The first meeting of the WANA Scientific Board was convened on 4 May 2025 in Kish Island, bringing together scientists, clinicians, and academic leaders from across the West Asia and North Africa (WANA) region. The meeting provided a platform to discuss the future direction, governance structure, and strategic priorities of the WANA Scientific Network. Participants emphasized the importance of scientific collaboration, capacity building, researcher mobility, and the development of practical mechanisms for regional cooperation. Participants The meeting was attended by representatives from Iran, Oman, Turkey, Lebanon, Pakistan, Libya, Iraq, Morocco, and the United Kingdom, reflecting the multidisciplinary and international nature of the network. The session was moderated by Dr. Massoud Vosough. Key Discussion Themes 1. Strengthening Regional Scientific Collaboration Participants unanimously highlighted the need to establish a structured framework for scientific collaboration across the WANA region. Discussions focused on identifying complementary expertise among member countries and creating opportunities for joint research, training, and knowledge exchange. The Board agreed that collaboration should be guided by realistic objectives, measurable milestones, and a clear roadmap for implementation. 2. Networking and Research Capacity Building Several members emphasized the importance of networking as a key driver of scientific advancement. Discussions highlighted the value of connecting researchers across institutions and countries, facilitating interdisciplinary collaborations, and strengthening scientific communities throughout the region. Participants also discussed the need to support countries with varying levels of research infrastructure by adopting a phased and inclusive approach to collaboration and capacity development. 3. Researcher Exchange and Educational Programs The Board identified researcher exchange programs, short-term training opportunities, workshops, and summer schools as practical mechanisms for strengthening scientific engagement across the region. Participants emphasized the importance of exposing students and early-career researchers to different research environments while promoting long-term institutional partnerships. 4. Expansion of the WANA Network Members discussed strategies for expanding the network and increasing participation from additional institutions and countries. Particular emphasis was placed on engaging researchers from diverse scientific disciplines, including regenerative medicine, stem cell science, biotechnology, and related interdisciplinary fields. The possibility of organizing future WANA events and congresses in member countries outside Iran was also discussed as a means of strengthening regional ownership and participation. Organizational Development Participants were informed that the WANA Scientific Board had been formally approved by the leadership and Board of Directors of the Royan Institute. Dr. Zeinab Ghezelayagh was introduced as the coordinator of the network secretariat. To support the network's initial development, it was proposed to establish a small core group responsible for coordinating activities, developing action plans, and facilitating communication among members. Regular meetings and structured engagement mechanisms were recommended to ensure continuity and progress. Strategic Recommendations The following priorities emerged from the discussions: • Develop a strategic roadmap with short-term and long-term objectives. • Establish thematic working groups and scientific committees. • Promote researcher mobility and exchange programs. • Organize workshops, training courses, and summer schools across member countries. • Facilitate multicenter collaborative research projects. • Strengthen communication platforms to connect researchers and institutions. • Explore funding opportunities through regional and international organizations. • Expand the network's geographical reach and institutional partnerships. Future Outlook The meeting concluded with a shared commitment to transforming the WANA Scientific Network into an active platform for scientific cooperation across the region. Participants agreed that future efforts should focus on establishing clear priorities, building sustainable collaborations, and creating opportunities that support research excellence and capacity development throughout the WANA region. The possibility of hosting future WANA activities in additional member countries, including congresses, workshops, and summer schools, was welcomed as an important step toward strengthening regional engagement and international collaboration.