CMU-Q Bio Sci community celebrates independent research

Carnegie Mellon University of Qatar (CMU-Q) students pursuing independent research during the fall 2024 semester presented their findings to faculty, staff and students. Fourteen students presented their work in fields that include cancer prevention, diagnosis and treatment, diabetes, and neurodegenerative disease.

Ihab Younis, area head of biological sciences, says presentations are a critical element of learning to be a researcher: “To be a scientist, you must not only understand the concepts, but communicate your rationale and results in a clear and precise way.”

Mohamed Bouaouina, associate area head of biological sciences, organizes the event and also supervises several students. 

“We have a strong research focus in our program, and our students regularly must summarize and explain their findings,” Bouaouina said. “Every opportunity helps them improve the way they describe complex topics, and provides feedback so they can improve and enhance their work.”

CMU-Q provides several opportunities for students to showcase their work. At the end of the academic year in May, CMU-Q hosts Meeting of the Minds, a symposium of research from the previous year. This event follows the annual College Honors thesis presentations, where graduating students present their theses to a panel of faculty members. 

The biological sciences program at the Qatar campus falls within CMU’s Mellon College of Science, which is recognized for its approach to science education. Carnegie Mellon was ranked second in the United States for undergraduate research and creative projects, according to the 2025 U.S. News & World Report university rankings.