URaD Scholar: Sam Chaaban, Psychology
Mentor: Dr. Pia Tohme
Research Topic: The Age of Main Character Syndrome: Scale Development, Personality Correlates, and Social Media’s Influence

“What stood out most to me wasn’t just the technical side of things. Of course, the sessions on literature reviews, proposal writing and using AI in research were incredibly helpful, but, more than that, the program created space for open, real conversations about what research looks like.

One moment that really stuck with me was during Dr. Sandra’s session when I asked about ethics, authorship and publishing expectations. I didn’t expect it to shift the whole conversation, but suddenly everyone was engaged and throwing in questions and thoughts. It turned into one of the most honest and insightful discussions we had all week. That moment captured what made URaD different: It gave us permission to ask the kinds of questions that usually go unspoken.

The program also helped me build more confidence in my own research. I’m currently working on a year-long project developing a psychometric scale for something I’m calling Main Character Syndrome. The workshops helped me shape that work and gave me the tools to move forward. More importantly, they made research feel less intimidating and way more meaningful.

URaD helped me see research not only as a methodological process, but also as something based on curiosity and collaboration with a purpose. That definitely is something I will take on in life even after the program.”

URaD Scholar: Abraham Yazbeck, Biology
Mentor: Dr. Sandra Rizk
Research Topic: The promising anti-tumor effects of PEGylated α-Tocopherol (a modified derivative of vitamin E) in ovarian cancer cells

“Witnessing faculty and experienced professors share their decades of knowledge in research was invaluable, immersive and pivotal for my future career.

Above the amazing courses we took with brilliant colleagues from multiple majors, the experience of witnessing fellow students share their research experience in different fields was so incredible and enriching.”

URaD Scholar: Reem Barakji, Biology
Mentor: Dr. Marc Fakhoury
Research Focus and Importance: Investigate undergraduate biology students’ perceptions of the effectiveness of lecture-based, blended, and flipped teaching approaches, as well as evaluate diverse teaching methods to optimize biology education quality and adapt instructional strategies effectively.

“URaD has been a transformative experience for me. It was not just a research experience, but rather a journey of discovery that let me go beyond classroom learning by opening doors I did not even know existed. I am truly grateful for having such a precious experience and being a part of URaD.”

URaD Scholar: Aya Al Tabesh, Nutrition
Mentor: Dr. Jana Jabbour
Research Topic: Assessing the Nutrient Adequacy of Chemo-Naive Individuals with Stage IV Colorectal Cancer

“URaD transformed me from someone intimidated by scientific inquiry into a confident researcher ready to tackle real-life challenges.

The program opened my eyes to how research truly works, showing me that it’s not just about lab experiments, but how entrepreneurship, effective communication and AI seamlessly integrate with scientific discovery. Our amazing mentors pushed us to do our very best with constructive feedback that made all the difference.

Now, I’m pursuing my research alongside Dr. Jana Jabbour, investigating how diet impacts the health of patients with colorectal cancer. The transformation has been incredible, from a hesitant beginner to someone who dares to navigate the research world with purpose and determination.

The knowledge I gained throughout URaD proved to be a valuable foundation I’ll carry throughout my entire professional journey.”

URaD Scholar: Ghida Abou Zaher, Chemistry
Mentor: Dr. Elias Akoury
Research Topic: What reaction conditions (temperature, solvent, reaction time) optimize the synthesis of lanthanide-phthalocyanine derivatives to achieve maximum yield (>45%) and purity (>95%) within a two-semester timeline (which is a treatment for Alzheimer’s disease)?

“At the heart of LAU’s URaD program is a spirit of discovery that empowers students to explore bold ideas, tackle real-world challenges, and grow as future leaders. For me, as a senior chemistry student, it’s a transformative academic journey; for investors, it is a chance to invest in innovation and impact the next generation of changemakers. Finally, for beneficiaries, it is a chance to solve their issues with science and technology.”