​​     Imam Mohammad Ibn Saud Islamic University (IMSIU) has launched five research chairs covering high-priority national scientific fields. This initiative aims to strengthen the University's research and innovation environment and support the goals of Saudi Vision 2030 in building a knowledge-based economy and developing national capacities.

     The newly announced research chairs come as part of the efforts of the Vice Presidency for Graduate Studies and Scientific Research, represented by the Deanship of Scientific Research and the Standing Committee for Research Chairs, which oversees the chairs' programs and operations. The initiative reflects IMSIU's ongoing commitment to supporting the research process, as the University invites faculty members and researchers to participate in its distinguished scientific projects.

     The new research chairs address diverse topics of national priority, providing scientific solutions to contemporary challenges, building specialized scientific knowledge bases, developing preventive policies that promote intellectual moderation, and supporting government and private institutions with knowledge tools that contribute to safeguarding national security. They also aim to publish peer-reviewed research with meaningful intellectual and social impact.

     These research chairs also contribute to supporting the University's mission of serving religion and the nation, promoting national identity, tolerance, and coexistence, as well as building research capacities that enhance the University's academic ranking and serve the community.

The University announced the establishment of five specialized chairs as follows:

• IMSIU Chair for Research on the Use of Modern Technologies in Sharia and Arabic Sciences, which focuses on employing artificial intelligence, natural language processing, and digital analysis in research and education. The chair aims to develop smart tools for researchers, build digital knowledge bases that preserve Arab and Islamic heritage, enhance innovation in e-learning and linguistic analysis, and serve as a link between the technical and human sciences—supporting digital transformation and knowledge sustainability at the University.

   

   

• IMSIU Chair for Intellectual Security and National Identity Research, which focuses on studying intellectual and social phenomena affecting societal awareness, analyzing mechanisms for preventing ideological deviation and behavioral extremism, and producing studies and recommendations that assist national entities in maintaining intellectual security and strengthening values of citizenship and belonging.

  
   

• IMSIU Chair for Governance and Policy Research, which works on aligning governance models with the objectives of Saudi Vision 2030, measuring the impact of governance on economic and social performance, and conducting comparative studies to identify best regional and global practices. The chair aims to prepare specialized researchers, establish scientific partnerships with national and international entities, and support evidence-based policymaking that enhances institutional trust, service quality, and administrative reform.

  
  

• IMSIU Chair for Digital Transformation Research, which contributes to advancing scientific and applied knowledge in emerging technologies, analyzing digital transformation strategies, assessing institutional readiness for technological integration, and developing digital solutions that support education, administration, and public services. The chair studies the impact of artificial intelligence, the Internet of Things, and big data, while training research talent and fostering partnerships with public and private sectors to develop innovative solutions—supporting IMSIU's transition toward becoming a smart university and advancing scientific research in the digital economy.

  
   

• IMSIU Chair for Modeling and Simulation Research and Applications, which focuses on developing simulation tools based on artificial intelligence and high-performance computing to support decision-making prior to real-world implementation. The chair aims to build a specialized research environment, strengthen digital capabilities in virtual modeling, support digital twin projects, and provide applied solutions for key sectors such as energy, industry, education, and healthcare—serving as a scientific platform that fosters innovation and interdisciplinary collaboration within and beyond the University.

     IMSIU affirmed that the establishment of these research chairs represents a strategic step to enhance its academic and research presence, promote the production of applied knowledge, and broaden research partnerships with governmental, private, and international entities. The initiative also enables researchers and students to contribute to practical solutions for national challenges.

     Furthermore, the Deanship of Scientific Research is working on launching academic programs aligned with these chairs to ensure the University continues its leading role in serving religion, the nation, and society, while supporting the research and innovation ecosystem, strengthening its position in international rankings, and contributing to the development of a knowledge-based national economy that achieves the goals of Saudi Vision 2030.