Iran's Scientific Achievements Grow in 2025 Despite Sanctions and Military Hardships

Iran's scientific productivity continued to grow in 2025, despite economic sanctions and military challenges. This growth reflects the resilience of the scientific community, the expansion of research institution capabilities, and the country's determination to support scientific progress and strengthen its position in the global research arena.

Shahineh Ahundzadeh, Deputy Minister of Health for Research and Technology, reported a 1.6 percent increase in the volume of scientific publications in the country in 2025 compared to the previous year. He viewed this growth as a positive sign of the country's scientific development after two years of stagnation.

Speaking at a strategic advisory meeting with experienced experts in medical science, Ahundzadeh emphasized that maintaining scientific momentum under difficult conditions requires protecting human capital, increasing the efficiency of research activities, and strengthening the resilience of research infrastructure.

He noted that while prospects in wartime remain uncertain, Iran's scientific potential serves as a valuable foundation for preserving and advancing achievements in this field. Ahundzadeh presented four possible scenarios for the country's scientific system: 'innovation under pressure,' 'prosperity and innovation,' 'scientific stagnation,' and 'collapse of the scientific system.'

The 1.6 percent increase in research volume is particularly significant given the pressure on the country's scientific institutions. It demonstrates the constant activity of Iranian researchers and universities, as well as their efforts to maintain research programs and contribute to scientific development despite challenging circumstances.

Although Turkey and Saudi Arabia recorded higher growth rates—20 percent and 12.8 percent, respectively—Ahundzadeh noted that Iran's return to growth after two years of stagnation is an encouraging phenomenon.

Strong Position in Regional and Global Research

Iran's scientific achievements go far beyond the total number of academic publications. The country has formed a significant research base across a wide range of disciplines, supported by universities, medical research centers, technological institutes, and a growing community of world-renowned scientists.

According to the Nature Index Research Leaders ranking for 2026, based on 2025 publications, Iran ranked 26th globally and second in West Asia, trailing Israel. Iran surpassed Turkey, Saudi Arabia, and several other countries in the region, indicating its consistent contribution to research published in selected leading international scientific journals.

The country's results in specific disciplines also highlight the breadth of its research capabilities. Iran ranked second in West Asia in physical and natural sciences while maintaining a substantial presence in applied sciences, chemistry, and medical sciences.

These successes underscore the role of Iranian scientific institutions in advancing knowledge from fundamental sciences to applied research and new technologies. The country's strong academic infrastructure, combined with the contributions of researchers in universities and specialized research centers, has helped create a foundation for further scientific development and international cooperation.

More Scientists Among Leading Global Researchers

One of the most noticeable indicators of Iran's expanding scientific capabilities is the steady growth in the number of its researchers included in the list of the top two percent of global scientists. According to the database of science authors for 2025, developed by Stanford University researchers and published via Elsevier, 2,534 Iranian scientists entered this category in one year, compared to 2,326 in 2024 and 1,154 in 2020. This represents an increase of approximately 120 percent over five years.

The number of Iranian researchers included in the category throughout their careers also reached 1,201 in 2025, which is 17.7 percent more than the previous year. These figures reflect the growing international recognition of Iranian scientists and their contribution to scientific literature in various fields.

Among the institutions contributing to this scientific presence are universities such as Tehran University, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Sharif University of Technology, Amkirabar University, and Tabriz University.

The growing representation of Iranian scientists in citation-based international rankings also points to the importance of investing in scientific talent and creating opportunities for young researchers to participate in high-impact scientific projects.

Medical Sciences as the Engine of Scientific Development

Medical sciences have traditionally played an important role in Iran's research system, with medical universities and specialized research institutions contributing to advancements in healthcare, biotechnology, pharmaceutical sciences, and medical technologies.

The Ministry of Health's research programs aim to strengthen the link between scientific research and the country's health priorities, ensuring that scientific discoveries can be translated into practical applications. Research in areas such as advanced diagnostic methods, new pharmaceutical compounds, regenerative medicine, biotechnology, medical equipment, and disease prevention is becoming increasingly important in this regard.

Strengthening research efficiency, one of the priorities noted by Ahundzadeh, is also intended to increase the practical value of scientific projects and expand the contribution of research to public health and the national economy. In this context, maintaining the potential of medical research centers and supporting researchers at different stages of their careers is crucial for ensuring the continuity of scientific achievements.

Creating Resilience for the Next Stage

Ahundzadeh's assessment of the four possible scenarios facing Iran's scientific system also underscores the importance of adopting a forward-looking policy to protect the country's accumulated research potential. The 'innovation under pressure' scenario reflects the possibility of turning problems into opportunities by relying more on internal expertise, stronger research networks, and developing innovative solutions.

The more favorable forecast of 'prosperity and innovation' would imply the expansion of research capabilities, support for scientific talent, improved access to advanced technologies, and strengthened collaboration between universities, research institutions, and industry. To transition to this scenario, maintaining research infrastructure, supporting early-career scientists, and ensuring access to necessary laboratory equipment and research materials will remain key priorities.

International scientific cooperation can also play a significant role in this process. Participation in joint research projects, academic exchange, and international scientific networks can help Iranian researchers share knowledge, gain access to new research opportunities, and enhance the global visibility of their work.

At the same time, placing greater emphasis on applied research and knowledge-based production can help transform scientific achievements into technological solutions, innovative products, and services that meet national and international needs. Iran's scientific results in recent years demonstrate significant scientific potential developed by its academic and research institutions. The growing number of world-renowned scientists, strong regional positions in several research disciplines, and the continuous expansion of scientific activity create a foundation for further progress.

The 1.6 percent increase in research volume in 2025, achieved despite serious difficulties, complements this record and signals the unwavering commitment of the country's scientific community to research and innovation. As Iran strives to overcome current circumstances, retaining scientific personnel, strengthening research infrastructure, and more effectively utilizing its research potential will be crucial to maintaining this momentum and advancing its standing in the global scientific community.

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www.tehrantimes.comOctober 31, 17:49

Economic Analyst Claims Iran's Economy Can Withstand War Pressure

An economic analyst stated that the Iranian economy has the potential to overcome the pressure caused by the war, as well as to restore production and employment. He noted that bureaucratic delays and slow decision-making hindered the utilization of the country's economic potential.

The expert emphasized that the resilience of the economy during wartime depends not only on natural resources, production capacity, or trade links, but also on the quality of decisions made, the speed of executive body reactions, and the ability to turn potential into real results.

Despite external restrictions and war damage, the Iranian economy possesses significant industrial, agricultural, manufacturing, and geographical capabilities. However, realizing these requires coordination among responsible agencies, reduction of administrative barriers, and timely decision-making.

The main task is to use available resources to curb inflation, maintain production, restore damaged facilities, and strengthen employment, while preventing decision-making slowdowns that could intensify external pressure on the economy and public welfare.

Saeed Leilaaz, an economic analyst, believes in an interview with IRNA correspondent that the Iranian economy is capable not only of coping with current difficulties but also of implementing a series of reforms. He compared the situation to Russia's experience in the war in Ukraine, stating that applying Russian experience in Iran to combat inflation and maintain domestic production levels is feasible, and in some areas, Iran might even surpass Russia.

Leilaaz added that most problems facing the Iranian economy are not related to the war; they existed before it and are not limited to sanctions. Although the war and sanctions have exacerbated these issues, past experience has shown the country's ability to overcome them.

Acknowledging the current economic blockade as the greatest pressure in the history of the Iranian economy, the analyst noted that the country has about 35 other land borders with neighboring states, besides the southern water borders. He cited the opinion of the Iraqi Prime Minister that many of these countries depend on Iran for imports and exports.

Mentioning Turkey and Turkmenistan as neighbors, Leilaaz suggested that only the Republic of Azerbaijan, given the small size of its economy, could partially restrict Iran's imports and exports, and only in a scenario that has not yet occurred. He also highlighted the existence of an independent maritime border with Russia and stated that the Iranian economy is no weaker than the Russian one in terms of diversification, stability, or dependence on oil revenues.

Comparing the war in Ukraine to Iran's conditions, Leilaaz noted that the conflict Russia faces is a war of NATO and the Western bloc against this country. Similarly, the war he calls 'America's war against Iran,' in his opinion, has affected more than 70 countries worldwide.

The analyst recalled that in the first week of the war, he claimed that almost all of Europe supported America's war against Iran, and subsequently, this proved to be true. He concluded that while enduring the strongest pressure in Iran's history, it must be understood that this is not merely economic pressure, but a continuation of a repressive war.

He admitted that the country is not yet fully equipped to counter this situation and noted that under such pressure, all responsible bodies must act according to current conditions, but he sees no signs of such changes in the work of many administrative and executive sectors of the country.

In conclusion, the analyst reported that the pace of growth deceleration in the Iranian economy is slowing down, indicating a return to activity in the industrial and agricultural sectors. He also mentioned that agricultural sector growth reached about 6 percent over the three months ending in July, which is significant development after years of stagnation.

Regarding the Central Bank, Leilaaz noted that liquidity growth reached 0.3 percent in September and suggested that even a slight decrease in this indicator could be important for liquidity control, considering that around 2 percent would be an appropriate figure under normal conditions.

He called for serious and revolutionary actions to eliminate imbalances in the banking system. Furthermore, he proposed accelerating the recovery of state revenues and returning these funds to the population in the form of subsidies, which would help improve the economic situation and support the country's political and social stability.

The analyst also noted that, with the exception of the gas sector (which suffered from 100 to 130 million cubic meters of capacity loss) and parts of the steel and petrochemical industries, most physical damage has been restored.

www.tehrantimes.comOctober 27, 14:29

Iranian and Russian Universities Discuss Strengthening Scientific Cooperation and Exchange Programs

Universities in Iran and Russia held discussions on directions to enhance scientific interaction and expand joint research projects. During the online meeting, both educational institutions presented their capabilities, examined potential areas of cooperation, and agreed to consider mobility programs involving industry representatives from both countries.

The Persian Gulf University's initiatives are focused on three key areas: energy, petroleum products, gas and petrochemicals; marine research; as well as international business and trade. By prioritizing these spheres of scientific knowledge and academic activity, the university aims to strengthen its significant role in maintaining peaceful coexistence and sustainable development, as well as improving the welfare and prosperity of people in the Persian Gulf region.

The university's internationalization project began in recent years, leading to a significant increase in international indicators, including the number of foreign academic staff, students, and international events held. The university's mission is to become a third-generation international university with excellence in science, technology, and entrepreneurship to meet societal needs and create value for it, by educating competent citizens and fulfilling social functions.

The Persian Gulf University has a high reputation due to the quality of teaching, academic research, and graduate employment. Admission is limited to students who have successfully passed the annual national entrance exam conducted by the Ministry of Science, Research and Technology of Iran.

Novosibirsk Oblast is home to one of Russia's most renowned universities—a symbol of the model of a science-oriented university in Siberia, located in the center of the scientific city Akademgorodok. This university holds a prominent position in the country's science and technology system, relying on high-quality education, fundamental research, and close cooperation with institutes of the Russian Academy of Sciences. The combination of a dynamic academic environment, an international scientific community, and an emphasis on basic sciences and advanced technologies has made it a key center for nurturing a new generation of scientists and innovators in Russia and around the world.

Iran and Russia are preparing to establish a joint commission on science and technology, and a document on international scientific cooperation between the two states is planned to be signed at the meeting of this commission.

In September, Ehsan Kabul, head of the Center for International Scientific Cooperation of the Ministry of Science, Research and Technology, stated Iran's firm commitment to expanding ties with Russia. He outlined further steps for Tehran and Moscow to strengthen bilateral cooperation, including the creation of a joint commission on science and technology. Kabul added that the Minister of Science, Research and Technology plans to visit Moscow within the next three months to finalize the document on international scientific cooperation between Iran and Russia.

He also announced plans to implement 500 cooperation programs with Russian universities and scientific institutions. These programs include conducting 100 joint educational courses with the participation of Russian professors, the opportunity for 100 doctoral and master's students to choose a second supervisor among faculty members of Russian universities, and organizing 100 technological events aimed at expanding bilateral cooperation from the field of science and education into the technological sector. Furthermore, 100 joint cultural events with Russian universities and academic and educational institutions are planned, as well as 100 scholarships for Russian students, who will be given priority in studying Persian language and literature.

The official emphasized Iran's support for Persian language programs in Russian universities, noting that Iranian professors are ready to teach Persian to Russian-speaking students both in person and online.

In June, the Iranian Minister of Science, Research and Technology, Hossein Simai-Sarraf, and the Russian Minister of Science and Higher Education, Valery Falkov, reviewed strategies for developing scientific, educational, and academic cooperation between the two countries. Special attention was paid to expanding student-professor exchanges, strengthening research partnerships, and promoting academic interaction. Simai-Sarraf considered establishing Russian language departments in Iranian universities and Persian language departments in Russian universities as a sign of deepening scientific and cultural ties between the two states. Falkov, for his part, noted the start of a new admission period at Russian universities and welcomed Iranian students, wishing to emphasize the importance of providing them with employment opportunities and utilizing their academic potential upon returning to Iran.