In a move set to strengthen regional academic collaboration, the American University in Dubai (AUD) has signed a strategic partnership with the American University of Beirut (AUB), reinforcing AUD’s commitment to practical learning experiences and excellence in Biology and Pre-Med education.

The partnership establishes a robust platform for academic exchange, joint research initiatives, and advanced training opportunities, enabling students and faculty from both institutions to engage in meaningful scientific collaboration. AUD students gain access to high-impact biomedical research environments at AUB, participating in advanced laboratory placements and supervised research projects that contribute to ongoing scientific studies.

The impact of these opportunities is reflected in the experiences of AUD students. Maya Atwi, AUD Biology Graduate 2024, shared that her time at AUD, particularly publishing cancer stem cell research, gave her the skills and confidence to pursue her master’s, demonstrating the power of early research involvement. Lali Rhayem, a senior Biology student, highlighted her engagement in advanced molecular biology research and the chance to present her work internationally, building practical skills in the Cancer Biology/Neuroscience Lab that are preparing her for a successful scientific career. Meanwhile, Dima Najjar, a sophomore Biology student, emphasized how hospital rotations and research experiences, such as working in the Diabetes Research Lab, are helping her develop the knowledge and skills needed for medical school and making a difference in patients’ lives.

Faculty at both institutions underlined the importance of the collaboration. Dr. Muriel Tahtouh Zaatar, Chair of the Department of Biological and Physical Sciences at AUD, explained that the university provides its students with practical research and clinical training, preparing them for advanced study and future careers, and that the partnership with AUB expands these opportunities, empowering students to engage in impactful scientific work.

Dr. Wassim Abou Kheir, Professor, Department of Anatomy, Cell Biology, and Physiological Sciences, and Director of Graduate Student Affairs at the Faculty of Medicine at AUB, added, “The Faculty of Medicine at AUB is happy about our new collaboration with AUD. AUB is a place where you can unlock your potential and where curiosity meets opportunity. This partnership allows students from both universities to experience high-quality research and training environments, fostering scientific curiosity and preparing the next generation of leaders in medicine and biomedical research.”

Beyond student training, the partnership also facilitates faculty engagement, seminars, workshops, and joint research projects, ensuring learning extends beyond the classroom. Together, AUD and AUB are providing students with the skills, experience, and global perspective necessary for success in competitive graduate programs and careers in healthcare and science.

With this initiative, AUD continues to strengthen its presence in the regional and global scientific community, ensuring that students graduate with not only academic knowledge but also practical experience and exposure to cutting-edge research.