Indus launches Indus Seed Fund Grant to support innovative clinical research

The Indus Hospital & Health Network (IHHN) launched the Indus Seed Fund Grant (ISFG), an institutional research grant supported by the Muzamil Paracha Research Endowment Fund, aimed at nurturing innovative ideas that improve clinical practice, patient care, and research excellence across the network.

The program opened with a recitation of the Holy Quran, followed by introductions by Dr. Zafar Zaidi on the Muzamil Paracha Endowment Fund, Dr. Sohail Rao on the Scientific Research Committee, and Dr. Saima Saeed, Chair of the Grants and Funding Sub-committee, who formally introduced the ISFG and outlined the grant’s vision. The event concluded with a question-and-answer session led by Dr. Ammad Fahim.

Remarks by Dr. Zafar Zaidi

Speaking at the occasion, Dr. Zafar Zaidi, CEO Indus Hospital & Health Network, emphasized that the launch of the Indus Seed Fund Grant reflects the collective effort and dedication of the team. He noted that the initiative began earlier this year with the formation of the Scientific Research Committee, which has achieved remarkable progress in a short time.

Dr. Zafar Zaidi appreciated the Paracha family’s contribution to the fund, highlighting that this support ensures sustainability and eliminates the need to seek external funding annually. He expressed optimism that the fund will continue to grow over time, enabling IHHN to expand its research opportunities and offer more grants in the future.

Remarks by Dr. Saima Saeed

Dr. Saima Saeed, Chair of the Grants and Funding Sub-committee, spoke about the Indus Seed Fund Grant program, explaining that it aims to further promote research and innovation at Indus while aligning with the organization’s eight strategic directions.
She shared that the grant program is designed to continue indefinitely, fostering ongoing opportunities for research growth and collaboration. Applications are now open, with the submission deadline set for January 31, 2026. Applications will be accepted via email, followed by a comprehensive review and interview process for shortlisted candidates. The top ten applicants will be interviewed, and the final results will be announced after the selection process.

About the Grant

The Indus Seed Fund Grant (ISFG) aims to build a self-sustaining research ecosystem within IHHN by funding novel, interdisciplinary projects that generate locally relevant evidence, attract external funding, and improve patient outcomes. The grant places special emphasis on projects that involve students, residents, and teams from diverse clinical and non-clinical backgrounds.

Key points for applicants:

• The ISFG is open exclusively to IHHN employees who have completed at least one year of service.
• Each Principal Investigator (PI) may submit up to two applications per cycle; however, only one grant will be awarded per PI per cycle.
• Interdisciplinary teams and proposals that include students or residents will be given preference.
• Applications must include an itemized budget prepared using the Indus budget template.

A Step Toward Sustainable Research

The Indus Seed Fund Grant marks a major step forward in IHHN’s mission to foster a research-driven environment that supports innovation, collaboration, and academic excellence. By empowering healthcare professionals, trainees, and researchers, IHHN continues to lay the foundation for impactful discoveries that improve patient care and contribute to national and global health outcomes.