Coordinator: Prof. Arunodaya Ramarao / College of Medicine & Health Sciences 

Abstract:
The Stroke Research Group is proposed to excel in research in the field of Stroke, to develop and encourage critical thinking, problem solving, integrative and adaptive approach to alleviate human suffering attributable to Stroke. 
A major component of the mission of Sultan Qaboos University to excel in ‘research and innovation and community service’ by promoting ‘scientific analysis’ and to ‘participate in development and dissemination of knowledge and interact with national and international communities’.
The Stroke Research Group proposes to advance this mission statement in the field of Stroke. 
This group aims to conduct scientific research into issues of immediate and future importance for alleviating human suffering due to stroke, develop and advance methods of prevention of stroke and explore methods of engaging the community in achieving these aims. 
The group aims to engage the excellent human potential available in Oman for the above purpose, including departments, individuals and Research groups interested in Cerebrovascular diseases in SQU, other health institutions of Oman as well as students, junior doctors and trainees. 
The resources for conducting research for this group would be patients with stroke treated at SQU Hospital and other health institutions, Stroke Registries, as well as communities accessed through peripheral health institutions in the country. The resources would also include various investigative methods accessible for study of Stroke through the above mentioned institutions. 
The initial areas of focus for the group proposes are examining preventive and therapeutic interventions which may significantly enhance outcomes among patients; preventive measures for cerebrovascular disease; exploring disease patterns that are more prevalent in Omani community; and exploring methods of advancing modern, scientific and high-impact interventional methods for stroke deliverable to the community.
Engagement of the student community and trainees with a purpose of quality manpower development will be of importance to the group. Also active engagement with the international scientific community in this field will be a focus; this would ensure adapting up-to-date and novel treatment strategies for the Omani community as well as to contribution back to the international community in enhancing knowledge base and experience in the field of stroke.