Profiling Current Faculty

FHS New Program

Faculty of Health Sciences Launches the BS in Optometry
The Faculty of Health Sciences at the University of Balamand is pleased to introduce its Bachelor of Science in Optometry, marking an important milestone in the University’s continued commitment to advancing healthcare education in Lebanon.

As the demand for qualified eye-care professionals continues to grow, the new program has been developed to prepare graduates with the scientific knowledge, clinical skills, and professional competencies required for modern optometric practice. The curriculum combines classroom learning with extensive laboratory and clinical experience, allowing students to progressively build confidence and expertise throughout their studies.

The program was developed in collaboration with internationally recognized academic partners, including the New England College of Optometry in the United States and the University of Montreal in Canada, while also meeting the requirements of the Lebanese Ministry of Education and Higher Education. This collaborative approach ensures that students receive an education aligned with international standards while remaining responsive to local healthcare needs.

Students enrolled in the program will have access to modern teaching laboratories, specialized optometric equipment, and supervised clinical training in a variety of professional settings. Throughout their education, they will learn to perform comprehensive eye examinations, prescribe optical corrections, recognize ocular diseases, and contribute to the promotion of vision and eye health within their communities.

The establishment of the Department of Optometry reflects the Faculty’s ongoing efforts to respond to emerging healthcare needs and expand educational opportunities in the health sciences. By launching this program, the University of Balamand aims to contribute to the development of a new generation of competent and compassionate eye-care professionals who will play an important role in improving vision care services in Lebanon and the region.


Health Economics and Outcomes Research Certificate: Applied Methods for Evidence Generation
The Faculty of Health Sciences is launching a new Health Economics and Outcomes Research (HEOR) Certificate, “Applied Methods for Evidence Generation,” scheduled to begin in September 2026.

Directed by Dr. Caroline Daccache, who holds a PhD in Health Technology Assessment and Health Economics, the hands-on hybrid certificate is delivered across four modules. It will equip participants with practical technical skills in cost analysis, economic evaluation, budget-impact analysis, and outcomes measurement, together with an understanding of health policy, access, and regional and global perspectives in healthcare evaluation.

Selected experts will share best practices and methodological approaches with participants from healthcare, research, and policy backgrounds. The certificate will provide a strong grounding in HEOR, insights from the Lebanese healthcare landscape, and practical tools for evaluating health interventions and supporting evidence-based decisions under real healthcare-system constraints.

Through the certificate, the University of Balamand aims to support individual career development and strengthen Lebanon’s capacity for evidence-based healthcare decision-making as the country advances toward universal health coverage.

Accreditation Updates

Department of Public Health
The consultation visit was conducted over two four-hour sessions. During the sessions, the self-study document was reviewed and clarifications were requested for several criteria and sections. Mrs. Varol, the department’s collaborator from the Council on Education for Public Health (CEPH), provided comments and recommendations and identified areas where full compliance with CEPH requirements had not yet been demonstrated. The department will address these areas before submitting the completed self-study document and Electronic Resource File to the CEPH review committee by March 2027.

The eight-hour remote consultation was productive, informative, and valuable to the accreditation team.

Department of Medical Laboratory Sciences
The Department of Medical Laboratory Sciences has formally begun the process of seeking accreditation for its Bachelor of Science in Medical Laboratory Science from the National Accrediting Agency for Clinical Laboratory Sciences (NAACLS), an international benchmark for laboratory science education. Following consultations with NAACLS and approval from the Dean, the program completed the initial step and is proceeding through NAACLS’s Initial International Acting Program Director pathway to prepare its application packet. The process will include a comprehensive self-study, a peer-reviewed site visit, and a final decision by the NAACLS Board of Directors. Once achieved, accreditation will make graduates eligible for the ASCP Board of Certification, confirm that the program meets globally recognized quality standards, and reinforce a continuing culture of self-evaluation and improvement.

FHS New Research Projects

Dr. Myriam Mrad and Her Collaborators Secure Prestigious UNDP Grant to Launch CLIM-LEAD Executive Diploma

Dr. Myriam Mrad and her collaborators from the Department of Public Health at the Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Balamand, have successfully secured funding under the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) project LBN/CO/RFP/51/26, following a highly competitive national selection process.

The project was conceptualized and developed through a strategic collaboration between the Faculty of Health Sciences at the University of Balamand, the Health and Environment Response Agency (HERA), and the CLIMA Center at the University of Southern California (USC). The proposal was selected for funding from among submissions by leading Lebanese universities and institutions, reflecting the scientific excellence, innovation, and collaborative strength of Dr. Mrad’s team, as well as its ability to develop evidence-based solutions that address Lebanon’s climate and public health priorities.

The funded project, CLIM-LEAD (Climate Leadership Executive Adaptation Diploma), aims to strengthen Lebanon’s institutional capacity to respond to climate change through the establishment of a multidisciplinary Executive Diploma in Climate Adaptation Leadership. Building on Dr. Myriam Mrad’s leadership and the team’s experience through the GeoHub for Climate Change and Health Fellowship Program, the diploma will equip senior decision-makers and professionals with the knowledge, leadership competencies, and practical skills needed to design, implement, and lead climate adaptation policies and programmes.

The programme will feature an interdisciplinary curriculum complemented by expert-led seminars, technical workshops, field visits, and applied capstone projects. It will cover key topics including climate governance, climate risk assessment, adaptation planning, climate finance, disaster risk reduction, leadership, and cross-sectoral collaboration.

This prestigious award represents another significant milestone for the team and further strengthens the Faculty of Health Sciences’ leadership in climate change, environmental health, sustainability, and professional capacity building at both the national and regional levels. It also reflects the continued commitment of the Faculty of Health Sciences and the University of Balamand to advancing sustainable development and addressing Lebanon’s most pressing environmental and public health challenges through research excellence, innovation, and strategic partnerships.

Dr. Lara Haddad: SAFAR-Supported Doctoral Collaboration with the University of Strasbourg

The Bourse SAFAR program in Lebanon, offered by the Embassy of France in Lebanon in partnership with the Institut Français du Liban, plays an important role in fostering international scientific collaboration and expanding higher education opportunities for young researchers. As one of the country’s most prestigious and competitive scholarship programs, SAFAR supports outstanding students through a rigorous selection process that recognizes academic excellence, research potential, and the relevance of proposed projects. Beyond individual academic achievement, the program promotes scientific excellence and the development of strategic disciplines.

Through this initiative, Dr. Lara Haddad and Dr. Chaza Harmouche, Assistant Professors at the University of Balamand, submitted a successful application that enabled Rasha Basso to enroll at the University of Strasbourg in France and pursue her PhD studies in the laboratory of Dr. Valérie Schini-Kerth. A formal agreement was established between the University of Balamand and the University of Strasbourg, creating a framework for academic exchange and joint research activities. Throughout her doctoral training, Rasha Basso will divide her time between the laboratories in Lebanon and France and benefit from the complementary expertise, experimental approaches, and scientific environments offered by both institutions.

Dr. Diana Skaff: International Research Collaboration with Université Laval

Dr. Diana Skaff, Senior Lecturer in the Department of Nursing at the University of Balamand, was invited to serve as a Visiting Researcher at the Faculty of Nursing, Université Laval, Québec, Canada, for a collaborative initiative focused on improving emergency medical responses during disasters and mass-casualty incidents. The project, entitled “Development of Quality Indicators to Improve Emergency Medical Responses in the Context of Disasters Based on Evidence and Stakeholders’ Perspectives,” forms part of a collaboration with the University of Balamand Department of Nursing involving Dr. Skaff and Dr. Mathilde Azar, Program Director.

The project seeks to identify, evaluate, and prioritize quality indicators for assessing the preparedness and responsiveness of emergency medical services during disasters and mass-casualty incidents. Its multi-phase mixed-methods design includes evidence synthesis through a scoping review, stakeholder engagement through focus-group discussions, and international expert consensus. The study aims to develop a validated, context-sensitive framework that can support healthcare systems, policymakers, and emergency responders in strengthening disaster preparedness and improving patient outcomes.

The project is expected to span two years. Significant progress has already been achieved in the first phase, including development of the study protocol, conceptual framework, search strategy, and eligibility criteria for the scoping review. From July 17 to August 15, 2026, Dr. Skaff will collaborate with an internationally recognized research team at Université Laval and the CHU de Québec–Université Laval Research Centre to advance key phases of the project and strengthen academic partnerships.

Dr. Mireille Serhan: Strengthening International Collaboration with Universidade Positivo, Brazil

From doctoral studies at the National Polytechnic Institute of Lorraine in Nancy, France, in 2004 to an international academic collaboration in 2025-2026, Dr. Mireille Serhan and Dr. Ligia Alves da Costa have continued to strengthen scientific ties and promote research excellence across continents.

The Faculty of Health Sciences at the University of Balamand is highlighting a growing international collaboration with Universidade Positivo in Brazil, led by Dr. Mireille Serhan, Assistant to the FHS Dean, and Dr. Ligia Alves da Costa, Associate Coordinator of the Master’s and Doctoral Programs in Industrial Biotechnology. As part of the collaboration, Dr. Serhan delivered an invited seminar entitled “Sustainability in Food Production in Lebanon” to master’s and PhD students at Universidade Positivo on November 5, 2025.

The partnership has also led to the preparation of a Memorandum of Understanding between the University of Balamand and Universidade Positivo, which is in the final stages of approval. In parallel, both teams are finalizing a collaborative research manuscript on the microbial ecology of gluten-free sourdough bread, with a focus on its technological and bioactive characteristics, for submission to a Scopus-indexed peer-reviewed journal.

FHS New Developments

Nutrition White Coat Ceremony


The Faculty of Health Sciences at the University of Balamand organized the first White Coat Ceremony for students in the Department of Nutritional Sciences on February 27, 2026, at the Dekwaneh Campus, marking an important milestone in their academic and professional journey.

The ceremony celebrated the students’ transition into the clinical training phase of the Nutritional Sciences program, during which they begin applying the knowledge and skills acquired throughout their studies in professional healthcare settings. Students, faculty members, preceptors, and families gathered to celebrate the occasion.

During the ceremony, Dr. Huda Abu-Saad Huijer, Dean of FHS, expressed pride in the students’ achievements and highlighted that the ceremony marked the beginning of a new tradition and a lasting legacy for Nutritional Sciences interns at UOB. Dr. Maud Rizk, Chairperson of the Department of Nutritional Sciences, highlighted the symbolism of the white coat, noting that it represents responsibility, integrity, professionalism, ethical practice, and compassionate care.

The ceremony concluded with the recitation of the Nutrition Oath, reaffirming the students’ commitment to evidence-based practice, patient-centered care, and the promotion of health and well-being.

Nutrition Workshop
The Department of Nutritional Sciences at the University of Balamand organized a workshop entitled “Beyond the Clinic: Ethical, Professional, and Technological Perspectives in Dietetics Practice” on June 12, 2026, at the University’s Dekwaneh Campus, with the participation of representatives from the Lebanese Order of Dietitians. The event brought together faculty members, healthcare professionals, dietitians, and students to explore contemporary issues shaping the future of dietetics practice.

The program featured presentations by academics, healthcare professionals, and experts from leading educational and healthcare institutions in Lebanon. Sessions addressed job satisfaction in dietetics practice, ethical principles and professional conduct, responsible use of social media, applications and challenges of artificial intelligence in nutrition and dietetics, and the essential role of preceptors in the training and development of future dietitians.

The workshop concluded with a recognition ceremony honoring preceptors for their dedication and valuable contributions to the education and development of future dietitians.

Department of Nursing Activity: Celebrating International Nurses Day 2026
On Friday, May 22, 2026, the Department of Nursing at the Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Balamand, celebrated International Nurses Day at the Main Campus in Koura. Nursing students from the Main Campus, Dekwaneh, and Souk El Gharb campuses gathered for a day dedicated to recognizing the contributions of nurses and fostering unity, professional pride, and personal well-being among future nursing professionals.

The 2026 celebration embraced the philosophy of self-care through a theme selected by the students, emphasizing that caring for oneself is essential to caring effectively for others. Throughout the afternoon, students participated in interactive activities designed to reinforce teamwork, clinical reasoning, wellness, and professional identity. Simulation-based challenges, public-health games, and collaborative exercises enabled students to apply nursing knowledge while strengthening communication, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills. The Department of Nursing extends its appreciation to the Nursing Student Society, faculty members, the Office of Student Affairs, and everyone who contributed to the success of the celebration. Activities of this kind strengthen students’ sense of belonging, professional identity, leadership, and commitment to compassionate, high-quality healthcare for individuals, families, and communities.

FHS Faculty Development


Clinical Laboratory Sciences Graduate Program Coordination

As Coordinator of the Medical Laboratory Sciences graduate program in Clinical Laboratory Sciences, Dr. Abdou supports students throughout their academic journey while maintaining the program’s academic standards and structure. He maintains direct and ongoing contact with students and advises them on course selection to ensure that their study plans align with program requirements, research interests, and career goals.

A significant part of Dr. Abdou’s work has involved building and refining the policy framework that guides the graduate community. He worked alongside the Department Chairperson, Dr. Mira El Chaar, to develop the graduate student handbook, which serves as a comprehensive reference for program requirements, expectations, and procedures. He also helped establish laboratory rules and safety guidelines for graduate researchers.

To support academic quality and fairness, Dr. Abdou developed rubric-based evaluation criteria for thesis examiners so that graduate theses are assessed consistently and according to clear, transparent standards. He also works to ensure that students understand and follow program rules and academic regulations, with particular emphasis on meeting deadlines and maintaining timely progress toward graduation.

Dr. Dima Mnayer Participates in Mediterranean Food Entrepreneurship Week

Dr. Dima Mnayer, Assistant Professor in the Department of Nutritional Sciences at the Faculty of Health Sciences, participated in the first Mediterranean Food Entrepreneurship Week held at CIHEAM Zaragoza from June 22 to 26, 2026.

She represented a University of Balamand-funded research project on gluten-free products and participated in an interdisciplinary program combining food science, innovation, and entrepreneurship. The event provided a platform for exchanging ideas, building collaborations, and engaging with regional stakeholders on current challenges and opportunities within Mediterranean food systems.

Advancing Excellence in Simulation-Based Nursing Education

Peggy Germanos, MSN, RN, Lecturer in the Department of Nursing at the Faculty of Health Sciences, recently completed the Clinical Simulation Diploma offered by the Lebanese American University Clinical Simulation Center. The faculty development program provides healthcare professionals with advanced knowledge and practical skills in simulation-based education, including simulation design, debriefing, competency-based assessment, Objective Structured Clinical Examinations, and the incorporation of simulation into healthcare curricula.

Through interactive workshops and online learning modules, Mrs. Germanos expanded her knowledge of evidence-based simulation methodologies and educational best practices. The diploma strengthened her ability to introduce new assessment and teaching techniques into the nursing curriculum and to develop students’ clinical competence, critical thinking, communication, and clinical reasoning skills, ultimately supporting patient safety.

Mrs. Germanos was also nominated to represent the University of Balamand’s Faculty of Health Sciences in the newly established Lebanese Consortium for Simulation in Healthcare, a national organization that unites academic institutions with established simulation centers to promote simulation-based healthcare education in Lebanon, share best practices, and encourage partnerships.  

Community Engagement

The Department of Community Engagement (DoCE) at the Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Balamand, serves as a platform for translating academic expertise into meaningful community impact. Through evidence-informed programs, research, capacity building, and strategic partnerships, the Department advances health, resilience, and sustainable development across Lebanon.

Operating within the strategic areas of school health, community health, mine action and explosive ordnance risk education, and community development, DoCE designs and implements multidisciplinary initiatives that strengthen public health systems, empower communities, and foster social responsibility. In collaboration with ministries, United Nations agencies, international organizations, NGOs, municipalities, schools, and local communities, the Department has implemented more than 15 nationally funded projects with partners including UNICEF, HAMAP, and the Lebanon Mine Action Center, reaching thousands of beneficiaries while providing service-learning opportunities for students and contributing to national development priorities.

Building on this experience, DoCE is currently supporting the Ministry of Public Health in the development of Lebanon’s National Adolescent Health Strategy and in the operationalization of the National Human Papillomavirus vaccination campaign. The Department is also leading national capacity-building initiatives to strengthen community engagement, risk communication, and social and behavior change competencies among ministry personnel and frontline health professionals, supporting community mobilization and public confidence in health interventions. In partnership with UNICEF, DoCE has delivered comprehensive training programs to support humanitarian response efforts for displaced populations across Lebanon. These initiatives have strengthened the capacities of frontline workers and partner organizations in community engagement, social and behavior change, community mobilization, and participatory approaches. They also supported the establishment and strengthening of community platforms, parents’ associations, and student clubs to enhance resilience and participation.

The Department has also collaborated with UNICEF to strengthen the competencies of healthcare workers and community-based frontline personnel through nationwide training on routine immunization, HPV vaccination, effective communication, community engagement, and social and behavior change approaches. These efforts have enhanced health workers’ readiness to promote vaccine acceptance, address misinformation, and improve immunization uptake across communities.

As a longstanding technical partner of the Lebanon Mine Action Center of the Lebanese Armed Forces, DoCE continues to support national efforts in Explosive Ordnance Risk Education, particularly in response to the humanitarian consequences of recent conflicts. The Department has designed and implemented nationwide awareness campaigns targeting internally displaced persons and returning populations through national SMS campaigns, digital and social media outreach, community awareness sessions, and the production and distribution of printed educational materials in shelters and high-risk communities. These interventions contribute to reducing injury and death from explosive ordnance while promoting safer community reintegration and recovery.

Alumni Achievement

OSA & FHS Student Clubs and Activities

FHS Students Lead, Engage, and Inspire Across Campuses and Communities
Despite the challenges faced with the escalation of war in the country, students of the Faculty of Health Sciences continued to demonstrate leadership, creativity, and commitment. Throughout the Spring 2026 semester, FHS students contributed to a wide range of initiatives across University of Balamand campuses and extended their efforts to the broader community. They remained actively engaged in promoting health awareness, supporting student well-being, and strengthening community connections.

At the Koura Campus, FHS clubs organized student-led initiatives and events focused on health awareness, student well-being, and social engagement. The semester began with the Medical Lab Club’s “Spring Refill,” which provided an opportunity for the FHS community to gather, reconnect, and strengthen bonds. The Healthy Minds Club later organized “Mosaic Me,” a supportive awareness initiative promoting mental health and a sense of belonging among students. The Healthy Minds Club and Medical Lab Club also collaborated with other campus clubs in fundraising efforts for communities in need.

At the Dekwaneh Campus, most activities were conducted during the Spring semester because activities had been suspended due to the security situation. The semester began with a Valentine’s Day celebration featuring a movie screening and student gathering. Later, the Medical Lab Club, in collaboration with the Blood Bank of the Lebanese Red Cross, organized a successful Blood Drive in response to the increased need for blood donations. The campus also marked the Holy Feast of Easter through a prayer gathering, the blessing of Easter eggs, and the distribution of traditional sweets.

At the Souk El Gharb Campus, FHS student clubs promoted health education and community engagement through targeted awareness initiatives. Activities included a Diabetes Awareness Campaign organized by the Medical Lab Club and the Nursing Student Society at a local school, as well as a Cardiovascular Health Awareness Initiative organized by the Medical Lab Club in celebration of Valentine’s Day. These initiatives reflected students’ dedication to advancing public health awareness beyond the classroom.

At the end of the semester, the Nursing Student Societies from the three campuses gathered at the Koura Campus to celebrate Nurses’ Day. The event brought together students, faculty members, and members of the Department of Nursing in a memorable celebration honoring the nursing profession and concluding the semester on a high note.

Through their leadership, creativity, dedication, and the continuous support of faculty members serving as club advisors, FHS students once again demonstrated their commitment to enriching campus life, promoting community engagement, and creating a positive impact within the University and beyond.

Office of Student Affairs Awards
FHS Clubs - Dekwaneh Campus: Campus Life Contribution Award: Creative Arts Club; OSA Support Award: Naï Al-Nacouzi, Medical Laboratory Sciences student; Teamwork Award: 2gether Club and Helping Hands Club; Awareness Initiatives Award: FHS Clubs, including 4D Club, Medical Lab Club, Nutri Club, Nursing Student Society, and PreMed Club.
FHS Clubs - Souk El Gharb Campus: Community Engagement Award: PreMed Club; Community Service Award: Medical Lab Club and Nursing Student Society.
FHS Clubs - Koura Campus: Community Well-Being Award: Healthy Minds Club; Community Service Award: CCCL Fundraiser, with participation from the Medical Lab Club.

Honors, Awards, and Recognition

Dr. Huda Abu-Saad Huijer
Dr. Huda Abu-Saad Huijer, Dean of the Faculty of Health Sciences at the University of Balamand, has been ranked among the leading researchers in Lebanon in the 2026 AD Scientific Index. The index places her ninth overall in Lebanon, first at the University of Balamand, and first in nursing nationwide.

Dr. Huijer is also recognized among the top 2% of researchers worldwide and among the top 15 scientists in Lebanon across all disciplines. With 19,501 citations and an H-index of 71, her research demonstrates sustained academic influence at regional and international levels.

Her research focuses on pain management and palliative care in children and adults. She has authored more than 300 peer-reviewed publications and two books and has led or collaborated on numerous funded research projects in Lebanon and internationally.

First International Researcher to Receive the FNINR Ada Sue Hinshaw Award
Dr. Huda Abu-Saad Huijer was named the recipient of the Ada Sue Hinshaw Award presented by the Friends of the National Institute of Nursing Research. She is the first international researcher based outside the United States to receive the award, which recognizes her global contributions to nursing science, education, and policy.

The award honors nurse scientists whose career-long research has significantly advanced nursing knowledge and improved healthcare outcomes. Dr. Abu-Saad Huijer’s work in pediatric pain management, palliative care, and nursing education has helped establish standards in clinical practice, research, education, and health policy in Europe, the United States, and particularly the Middle East.

Participation in the 79th World Health Assembly
Dr. Huda Abu-Saad Huijer participated as part of the Lebanese Ministry of Public Health delegation at the 79th World Health Assembly in Geneva, Switzerland. The Assembly brought together global health leaders and member states to address international public-health priorities and strengthen cooperation in healthcare.

During a side event organized by the International Association for the Study of Pain, entitled “Pain in Global Health - Strengthening Coordinated Action for Equitable Access to Effective Pain Care,” Dr. Huijer delivered a speech on behalf of the Lebanese Minister of Public Health. She emphasized that pain management is both a clinical and public-health priority that requires stronger integration into healthcare systems and alignment with World Health Organization frameworks.

Dr. Huijer highlighted Lebanon’s commitment to improving access to essential pain medications, strengthening healthcare professionals’ capacity in pain assessment and management, and integrating pain care into national health strategies. She also reaffirmed Lebanon’s readiness to collaborate with the World Health Organization, the International Association for the Study of Pain, and member states to advance equitable access to effective pain care worldwide.

FHS International Advisory Board
The FHS International Advisory Board was established in 2021-2022, and this year two new members were added: Dr. Walid Heneine and Dr. Bina Patel.

	Antonia M. Villarruel, PhD, RN, FAAN Margaret Bond Simon Dean of Nursing, University of Pennsylvania, USA
	Annemie Schols Dean, Faculty of Health, Medicine and Life Sciences, Maastricht University, the Netherlands
	Patricia Davidson, PhD, MEd, RN, FAAN Former Vice-Chancellor's Distinguished Fellow; Co-Director, International Centre for Future Health Systems, University of New South Wales, Sydney, Australia; Dean Emerita, Johns Hopkins University School of Nursing
	Ellen McKenzie, PhD Former Dean, Bloomberg School of Public Health, Johns Hopkins University, USA
	Rana A. Hajjeh, MD Chair, Gavi Independent Review Committee; Adjunct Professor, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health; Former WHO/EMRO Director of Programme Management
	Walid Heneine, PhD Chief, HIV Laboratory, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, USA
	Bina Patel, OD Director, International Programs, New England College of Optometry, Boston, USA