Overview: A New Era of Interdisciplinary Research
Interdisciplinary Research (IR) has entered the arena of contemporary strategic development of scientific research. This type of research draws upon two or more fields of study to merge and transcend established borders of inquiry. It seeks new and innovative ways to deal with the complexities and interrelated issues of the 21st century. Today’s conventional paradigms of interdisciplinary or multidisciplinary research merely structure fields to operate in parallel. In contrast, IR fosters a synthesis of ideas and collaborations that create entirely new structures and ways of thinking.
The world’s universities are incorporating interdisciplinary research into their strategic goals. Complex issues like sustainable development, public health, and the ethics of technology require a cross-cutting and multi-dimensional approach that breaking down academic silos. In this sense, the IRU encourages innovative thinking, expanding the frontiers of knowledge, and enabling significant contributions to the development of society at the regional and global levels.
About the Interdisciplinary Research Unit (IRU) at Al-Quds University
The Interdisciplinary Research Unit (IRU) at Al-Quds University is the primary strategic instrument that fosters collaboration at the highest levels across all faculties and research areas. It serves as a bridge and provides an environment for integrated research ventures that produce significant influence, both locally and internationally.
The IRU operates under a systematic approach of regulatory frameworks, specialized guiding committees, and ongoing assessment. This structure allows for the alignment of all collaborative work with best global academic practices and to the forefront of the most recent emerging research trends.
Core Objectives
The IRU aims to fulfill its strategic priorities that include:
- Cross-Disciplinary Collaboration: Promoting impactful synergies between disciplines that are traditionally perceived to be distant (i.e. Medicine and Engineering, or Law and Social Sciences).
- Transformative Research: Advocating research that offers breakthrough findings and pragmatic approaches to pressing global challenges.
- Institutional and Administrative Efficiency: Institutional streamlining and collaborative infrastructure (physical spaces) supports seamless inter-researcher partnerships.
- Enhanced Global Standing: Advocating interdisciplinary research of high quality and global standards.
- Integrated Approach to Societal Issues: Scientific and social challenges tackled through an integrated inter-disciplinary approach.