USERN: A Bridge for International Scientific Collaboration
The 10th gathering of the world’s top 1% scientists was held on December 18, 2023, at the Dar ul-Funun Hall of the central building of Tehran University of Medical Sciences (TUMS). This event coincided with Research Week and the 10th anniversary of the Universal Scientific Education and Research Network (USERN).
As reported by Sina Media of TUMS, Bringing together scholars, researchers, and prominent national scientific figures, the meeting provided a valuable platform for discussions on research and strengthening international collaboration.
Emphasis on Scientific Cooperation and Global Synergy
According to TUMS Sina Media, Dr. Seyed Reza Raisi Karami, Chancellor of TUMS, welcomed attendees and highlighted the importance of research dialogue and the critical role USERN plays in fostering global synergy.
“We have gathered here today, with coordination from the Ministry of Health and TUMS, to address overarching research issues and pave the way for scientific progress,” said Dr. Raeeskarami. He also emphasized the significant opportunities USERN creates for young scientists worldwide to collaborate and exchange knowledge, describing it as a key driver in advancing global science.
Global Recognition of the Top 1% Scientists
Dr. Raeeskaramielaborated on the selection process for the top 1% scientists, explaining that it is based on international standards and citation counts. “These distinguished individuals, recognized in scientific circles, are invaluable assets for advancing science and a source of pride for the global community,” he said.
TUMS’s Outstanding Contribution
He also praised TUMS’s remarkable achievements in global rankings, noting that three Iranian scientists were named among the top 1% most-cited researchers this year. Among them is Dr. Mohammad Ali Mansournia from TUMS’s School of Public Health. “This significant accomplishment underscores the university’s esteemed academic standing and the capabilities of our research community,” Dr. Raeeskarami remarked.
USERN’s Role in Tackling Global Challenges through Interdisciplinary Collaboration
Dr. Nima Rezaei, USERN founder, addressed the importance of interdisciplinary and international cooperation to solve complex global challenges such as pandemics, natural disasters, and environmental crises. “Solving global issues is not solely the responsibility of physicians. It requires the integration of diverse fields, including mathematics, chemistry, biology, medicine, and social sciences,” he said. Dr. Rezaei emphasized breaking barriers between disciplines, generations, and geographical regions to create unified efforts to serve society effectively.
USERN: A Platform for Global Scientific Collaboration
Dr. Rezaei shared the history of USERN’s establishment, beginning with the inaugural gathering of top 1% scientists at TUMS ten years ago. This event led to the formation of USERN in 2016.
Impressive Achievements in a Decade of USERN Activity
Dr. Rezaei highlighted USERN’s accomplishments over the past decade, including attracting 26,000 members from 130 countries, engaging over 600 of the world’s top 1% scientists and 20 Nobel Laureates as advisory board members, and establishing over 50 scientific offices worldwide. USERN’s initiatives include creating 70 interdisciplinary departments, publishing more than 3,000 research articles in top journals, and organizing over 1,000 scientific events, such as congresses, schools, and specialized workshops. Dr. Rezaei stressed the network’s pivotal role in fostering scientific leadership and inspiring hope among young researchers, calling USERN a significant step forward in promoting international collaboration and advancing science.
USERN as a Model for Scientific Leadership and Global Collaboration
Highlighting USERN’s success, Dr. Rezaei noted that its collaborative efforts and scholarly outputs have earned it recognition as a teaching model in universities worldwide. He concluded by emphasizing the importance of involving scientists in effective policy-making and commending networks like USERN for offering practical solutions to global challenges.
Acknowledgment of Supporters
The event concluded with tributes to Dr. Reza Malekzadeh, a top 1% scientist from TUMS, for his financial and moral support in awarding the USERN Prize to young researchers. Appreciation was also extended to Dr. Parnianpour for contributions to the establishment of USERN’s House and Museum.
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