Qatar - HBKU offers unique curricula on genomics, precision medicine in region

(MENAFN- The Peninsula) Fazeena Saleem | The Peninsula

As healthcare system in the country is evolving into a personalised approach, well-designed curricula in genomics and precision medicine at Hamad Bin Khalifa University (HBKU)'s College of health and Life Sciences (CHLS) are unique in Qatar and the region.

CHLS is the only institution in Qatar to offer degree programmes in genomics and precision medicine. 

“At CHLS, we are pioneering precision medicine in order to position ourselves in the region and the world,” Dr. Georges Nemer, Interim Dean at CHLS told The Peninsula.

“The unique and well-designed curricula across all three different divisions drive the college into a class of its own in Qatar and the region,” he added. 

CHLS offers five degree programmes including a Master of Science (MS) and PhD in Biological and Biomedical Sciences (BBS); an MS and PhD in Genomics and Precision Medicine (GPM); and an MS in Exercise Science, the latter being a joint programme with the University of South Carolina in the US. 

“Foundational to achieving precision medicine is the integration of educational programmes that will form an elite class of researchers in the three fields of BBS, GPM, and ESHE,” said Dr. Nemer. 

Because of the presence of different colleges at HBKU, CHLS also benefits from their expertise to be at the forefront in the field. 

“Integrating cultural, social, and ethical dimensions is done through our interaction with the College of Humanities and Social Sciences and the College of Islamic Studies, both of which have a presence within HBKU. Advancing technologies is accomplished through the interaction with the College of Science and Engineering while legal and governmental aspects are highlighted through the interactions with the College of Law and the College of Public Policy. The multidisciplinary facet of Genomics and Precision Medicine as an example that can be integrated in the curriculum and in the co-mentoring of students with investigators from different colleges,” said Dr. Nemer.

CHLS is a new college at HBKU with a unique approach that dedicates all of its infrastructure and expertise to educate the next generation of scientists to impact the world. 

“We have the only programme in precision medicine in the region, and we benefit from a collaborative network that spans Qatar Genome Programme and Qatar Biobank, two of the most advanced health entities in the region. We leverage a unique and advanced joint degree programme with University of South Carolina which focuses on studying and developing strategies by which an individual may attain physical fitness to address preventative health. 

'Also our faculty in the Biological and Biomedical Sciences D ivision have a wide range of expertise in drug screening and small animal models, setting an exemplary environment for collaborative research,” said Dr. Nemer.

The development of a cadre of well-trained research scientists with expertise in their field of studies is a measurement of success for any higher educational institution. 

“Giving the students the necessary tools to excel is achieved by providing an intellectual environment for developing new research ideas combined with the latest state-of-the-art technology platforms. Without technologies, ideas cannot materialize into products, and without measurable outcomes, future researchers will not have an impact on societies. A t the heart of change and development are freedom and respect,” said Dr. Nemer. 

“At HBKU, all of our students are treated respectfully and are given the freedom to express their opinions and receive the appropriate feedback and guidance to have their own impact in the research outcomes of their own ideas. Freedom and passion nurture innovation, and proper guidance and infrastructure fast forward change. All of this is integrated in our curriculum and in the way we educate and carry research,” he added.

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