Jordan Daily – Academics and experts at the third “Creativity, Invention, and Scientific Research” conference, hosted by the University of Petra, called for aligning research output with Jordan’s national priorities and development goals to address economic challenges.
The conference, held under the patronage of Dr. Adnan Badran, Chair of Petra University’s Board of Trustees, gathered university leaders, industrial partners, and research professionals.
Petra University President Prof. Rami Abdel Rahem stressed that scientific research should support the UN’s 17 Sustainable Development Goals while aligning with Jordan’s key sectors, including renewable energy, oil shale utilization, lithium battery development, Dead Sea chemicals- especially bromine- and water desalination.
Despite an increase in research output, Abdel Rahem noted a weak impact on Jordan’s economy. He said Petra University researchers published 460 papers in Scopus-indexed journals in 2024, with 43% of faculty publishing at least once. To bridge the research-market gap, the university will launch “innovative scientific research” projects in 2025 requiring marketable product outcomes.
University of Jordan President Prof. Nathir Obeidat emphasized the foundational role of basic sciences and called for advanced national laboratories. He cited cellular-level research as the backbone of recent medical breakthroughs.
Dr. Mashhoor Al-Refai, Secretary-General of the Higher Council for Science and Technology, highlighted that Arab states spend just 0.6% of GDP on R&D, mostly funded by governments. In Jordan, private sector contribution remains below 15%. Al-Rifai cited a lack of clear research priorities and weak industry-academia collaboration as key issues. The Council is developing a 2026–2035 national research agenda covering 15 sectors.
Petra Vice President Dr. Mayyas Al-Rimawi said over 336 university papers contributed to health-related SDG targets and outlined international research collaborations and spinoffs.
The event featured a panel discussion with innovation leaders and industry representatives, and an exhibition showcasing patents, startups, and funded research projects.
