In 2018, TU boasts 503 research papers in Scopus indexed journals
date of publication : 2019-05-05
Citing the efforts of researchers in various colleges, the Dean of Scientific Research Dr. Khalid Al-Swat affirmed that TU research production is the best in years: 503 research papers in Scopus indexed journals in 2018, compared to 402 in 2017. In a report on scientific research at the university, Dr. Al-Swat noted the increase in the number of researches published in collaboration between TU researchers and international researchers. 53 joint researches were published in 2017 and 2018 compared to 28 in 2015 and 2016, according to Scopus database.
Citation percentage of TU research papers in 2018 rose to 5211 citations compared to 4633 in 2017 and prior. At the local level, TU occupies ninth place (out of 52 private and state universities in the KSA) according to Scimago Index, which relies heavily on scientific publishing. In 2017, TU ranked tenth. At the regional level, TU ranks 40th according to US News, and 25th in terms of quality research.
Dr. Al-Swat revealed that the University of Taif has taken rapid steps towards the completion of world-class research laboratories to improve the research output of the university. He noted that TU received five grants for postdoctoral fellowships out of 100 grants provided by the Ministry of Education Research and Development Office. Dr. Al-Swat indicated that 75% of all research projects submitted by Taif University was shortlisted for technical arbitration by the International Cooperation Initiative, while the total percentage of all projects by Saudi universities that were shortlisted was 45% only. TU signed a cooperation agreement with stem cell researchers at the University of Melbourne.
In accordance with Saudi Vision 2030, the Research Groups Program was also created to support local and international research cooperation and serve TU research priorities. Dr. Al-Swat noted the launch of research initiatives at the university aimed at raising the quality of scientific research, increasing research outputs and patents, most notably activating the Highlands Research Center to produce distinguished research outputs, and support scientific chairs at the university. Researchers are also financially supported to participate in local and international conferences.