DiscoveringAUB

Screenshot of a virtual webinar featuring four participants. Clockwise from top left: Amanda Fox, who moderated the discussion; Martha Trabulse El Khouri; Enrique Alfonso Gómez Montiel; and Caroline Chalouhi Brennan. All are smiling and appear in separate video call windows during the online panel.

Missed yesterday’s webinar on Lebanon–Mexico relations? Watch Migration, Integration, and Diplomacy to learn why Lebanese migrants chose Mexico more than a century ago, how they helped shape its history, and how AUB’s ties with the country continue to grow.

Watch: tr.ee/oct16 #AcademicSky

Close-up digital illustration of colorful bacteria in blue and orange hues under a microscope, representing scientific research on microbes. Text on the image reads: “AUB@Work Oct 2025 – New discovery in fight against antimicrobial resistance. Read more. American University of Beirut.”

What if the cure for tomorrow’s infections is hiding beneath our feet? AUB's Antoine Abou Fayad just discovered four new bacterial species in Lebanese soil—three never seen before. Read more: tr.ee/allies 🧪🛟

Digital illustration combining ancient cave-style art and modern symbols shows red ochre drawings of people and animals alongside a laptop sketch on a textured stone background. Text on the image reads: “AUB@Work Oct 2025 – AI unlocks ancient Egyptian life. Read more. American University of Beirut.”

How did ancient Egyptians live—and eat—thousands of years ago? AUB’s Dr. Claire Malleson is using AI to uncover remarkable details from preserved plant remains on Elephantine Island, revealing daily habits and lessons for sustainability today. Read more: tr.ee/archAI 🏺

Faculty members in academic regalia walk toward College Hall on the American University of Beirut campus. Text overlay reads: “56 AUB faculty members named among the world’s most-cited scientists. Read the full story.” The American University of Beirut logo appears in the lower right corner.

56 current faculty members of the American University of Beirut have been recognized among the world’s top 2% most-cited scientists in the updated science-wide author databases of standardized citation indicators, further marking AUB research excellence and global visibility. Read: tr.ee/topcited

Promotional graphic for a webinar titled “Migration, Integration, and Diplomacy: The Rich History of Lebanon-Mexico Relations,” hosted by the American University of Beirut’s Debs Center. The event is scheduled for Thursday, October 16, 2025, at 12:00 pm ET. Featured speakers include Caroline Chalouhi Brennan, Enrique Alfonso Gómez Montiel, and Martha Trabulse El Khouri, with Amanda Fox as moderator.

What drew Lebanese migrants to Mexico 150 years ago, & how did they build new lives there? In honor of 80 years of diplomatic relations between Mexico and Lebanon, join us October 16 for a webinar on how early Lebanese communities adapted to their new home—& helped shape it. RSVP: tr.ee/octwebinar

Portrait of Lina Ghotmeh smiling, framed within a TIME100 Next 2025 graphic design with red and black geometric borders.

Congratulations to architect and AUB alumna Lina Ghotmeh (BArch ’03 with distinction) on being named to the TIME100 Next 2025 list! This honor celebrates leaders shaping the future—redefining influence, breaking paths, and inspiring transformation across generations. #Architecture

Musicians perform on stage in front of a large audience inside a concert hall. A pianist, a clarinetist, and a woman reading from sheet music are visible, with a grand piano in the foreground. Text overlay reads: “The Journey of AUB’s Classical Music Club. Read all about it in The MainGate – American University of Beirut.”

From student-led recitals in Assembly Hall to stages across Lebanon & Cyprus, the AUB Classical Music Club has become a cultural force redefining how classical music is experienced. Since 2019, the club has built on AUB’s long tradition of classical music to keep the art alive. Read: tr.ee/classical

We’re proud to share that Dr. Faysal El Kak has received the prestigious Honoris Causa Fellowship from the Royal College of Obstetricians & Gynecologists! This honor celebrates his global impact in advancing women’s healthcare & reflects AUBMC’s mission to lead w/ excellence & compassion. 🛟 #MedSky

Collage of Middle Eastern banknotes featuring prominent leaders and cultural symbols. Text overlay reads: “AUB at Work, Sep 2025. Rebuilding Trust in Institutions in the Middle East. Read More. American University of Beirut.”

Flowing water in a treatment facility or channel, symbolizing clean water and pollution solutions. Text overlay reads: “AUB at Work, Sep 2025. Microscopic Sand, Massive Pollution Solution. Read More. American University of Beirut.”

Aerial view of a fracking site in a desert landscape with drilling equipment and machinery. Text overlay reads: “AUB at Work, Sep 2025. Can AI Make Fracking Less Harmful? Read More. American University of Beirut.”

A geothermal steam vent releases a large plume of white vapor in a mountainous area with patches of snow. Text overlay reads: “AUB@Work Sep 2025 — Smarter modeling brings geothermal within reach. American University of Beirut.”

Have you caught up on this month’s AUB@Work? Visit tr.ee/sept25 for:

📌 Rebuilding trust in Middle Eastern institutions through reform
📌 Silica nanoparticles capturing & recycling toxic pollutants
📌 AI models making fracking less harmful to aquifers
📌 Geothermal simulations advancing clean energy

Student Spotlight graphic featuring Roy El Badawi, BE Mechanical Engineering student at AUB, standing outdoors in front of a university building with arms crossed, wearing a beige suit jacket and white shirt.

Infographic titled ‘Meet Roy’ highlighting achievements of Roy El Badawi, senior Mechanical Engineering student minoring in Economics. Lists leadership roles in student societies, awards including Excellence in Student Life Award, international Model UN representation, and winner of the AUB Founders Day Essay Contest.

Quote card with Roy El Badawi’s reflection about community and resilience at AUB. Includes his photo with AUB President Fadlo Khuri, both holding an award certificate, with the caption ‘Roy El Badawi’ at the bottom.

This week’s Student Spotlight features Roy, a senior Mechanical Engineering student minoring in Economics, whose leadership, research, and global engagement have left a lasting impact on campus and beyond. #AcademicSky #EduSky

A geothermal steam vent releases a large plume of white vapor in a mountainous area with patches of snow. Text overlay reads: “AUB@Work Sep 2025 — Smarter modeling brings geothermal within reach. American University of Beirut.”

What if clean energy was right beneath our feet? AUB Professor Elsa Maalouf and her team have developed a faster, more affordable way to design geothermal systems—bringing this hidden power source within reach for more communities. Read: tr.ee/geothermal #AcademicSky 🧪🌎

Roundtable panel discussion with participants seated around a long wooden table, and a large screen displaying the title 'When Trust Is Lost: How to Rebuild Stable Statehood in the Middle East' alongside university logos.

Close-up of panelists at a roundtable discussion, with one man speaking into a microphone while others listen and take notes. Event title and university logos are visible on the screen in the background.

Panel discussion at a roundtable, with a woman in a green blazer speaking while other participants listen. A large screen behind them shows the event title and university logos.

Man holding a microphone asking a question during the Q&A session, while another man seated beside him listens with his hand on his chin.

Thank you to everyone who joined us at yesterday’s panel! Our panelists explored the roots of public distrust, the risks of failing to restore it, and the vital role of civic engagement, empowerment, and the rule of law in rebuilding legitimacy and social cohesion.

Watch: tr.ee/sept18 #AcademicSky

Maroon background with bold white text that reads “Q&A with Dr. Tania Haddad.” On the left, smaller black text: “Leading scholar and practitioner exploring the relationship between communities, institutions, and governments across the Arab world.” On the right, a headshot of Dr. Haddad smiling in a blazer and white blouse. Her titles are listed below.

Maroon background with white bold text at the top: “Her Research Asks.” Four questions are shown inside rounded boxes, each with an emoji icon: 🌍 citizenship, rights & accountability; ⚖️ transparency & governance; 🌱 communities after disasters; 🤝 grassroots initiatives & social contract.

When crises hit, how do communities step up? As governments transform, what role do citizens play? These are just some of the big questions Dr. Tania Haddad explores—and now it’s your turn to ask her!

👉 Reply with your questions for Dr. Haddad! #AcademicSky #PoliSciSky

A square event flyer for the American University of Beirut titled: “When Trust is Lost: How to Rebuild Stable Statehood in the Middle East.” Event date: Thursday, September 18, 2025, from 12:00–1:00 pm ET, at The Debs Center – New York Office, with lunch to follow. Features moderator Margaret Besheer and speakers Dr. Tania Haddad, Dr. Simon Neaime, and Dr. Khaldoun AbouAssi. Includes logos of the American University of Beirut, the Faculty of Arts & Sciences, and American University School of Public Affairs.

Last chance to sign up! Will you be in NYC for UNGA? Join us on September 18 at AUB’s New York office for a timely panel discussion on restoring stable statehood in the Middle East. Reserve your spot: tr.ee/statehood #NYC #UNGA

Portrait of Dana Al Hachem, BA in Political Studies student at the American University of Beirut, featured in a "Student Spotlight" graphic.

Text graphic highlighting Dana Al Hachem’s achievements, including leadership roles in student organizations, published research, advocacy for women’s rights, and internships with international recognition.

Dana Al Hachem speaking into a microphone, alongside a quote about her motivation to give back to Lebanon through politics, featured in a student spotlight design.

This week’s Student Spotlight features Dana, a senior in Political Studies whose leadership, research, and achievements in international affairs reflect her commitment to women’s rights and inclusive public policy. #AcademicSky #EduSky

Jad Mohammad El-Dana, BA Economics ’16, riding a horse mid-jump during an equestrian competition, with flags in the background. Text overlay reads: “Alumni in the News – Jad Mohammad El-Dana (BA Economics ’16).” The American University of Beirut logo appears at the bottom.

Congratulations to our AUB alumnus Jad Mohammad el-Dana (BA Economics ’16) on his spectacular $61,000 win at the Florida Coast Equipment CSI4* Grand Prix! Riding his champion horse Itchcock des Dames, he delivered two flawless rounds and a lightning-fast 39.56-second jump-off. #Equestrian

Graphic design featuring overlapping human silhouettes in purple tones, forming a mirrored face profile. At the top, the American University of Beirut’s Issam Fares Institute for Public Policy & International Affairs logo is displayed. A red label on the right reads “Intern’s Blog.” At the bottom, the title text says: “The Role of the Media in Erasing Arab Contributions to Science, Medicine, and Culture” by Maria Ward.

From algorithms to architecture, Arab scholars helped shape the foundations of modern science, medicine, and culture—yet their legacy is too often overlooked.

Learn more: tr.ee/ifiblog #AcademicSky #MENA

Welcome back! New and returning students filled our campus with energy and excitement this week as we kicked off the new academic year, as captured by our Office of Student Affairs. Here’s to a year of learning, growth, and connection! #AcademicSky #EduSky

Don't miss this insightful conversation on rebuilding a stable statehood in the Middle East, co-hosted by SPA and @DiscoveringAUB.bsky.social.
Panelists: SPA Prof. @AbouAssi.bsky.social, AUB Profs. Tania Haddad and Simon Neaime. 🗓️9/18 🕑 12-1 PM📍New York City
👉 bit.ly/4oX9rQs

A square event flyer for the American University of Beirut titled: “When Trust is Lost: How to Rebuild Stable Statehood in the Middle East.” Event date: Thursday, September 18, 2025, from 12:00–1:00 pm ET, at The Debs Center – New York Office, with lunch to follow. Features moderator Margaret Besheer and speakers Dr. Tania Haddad, Dr. Simon Neaime, and Dr. Khaldoun AbouAssi. Includes logos of the American University of Beirut, the Faculty of Arts & Sciences, and American University School of Public Affairs.

Registration is open! Join us on September 18th at our New York office for a timely panel discussion on restoring stable statehood in the Middle East.

Reserve your spot here: tr.ee/statehood
#AcademicSky #EduSky #UNGA

A group of students sits outside, gathered around a campus map, smiling and pointing at different spots on it.

A group of students stands outside, gathered around a campus map, smiling and pointing at different spots on it.

Students sit in an auditorium; a young woman in the middle holds a microphone and an inflatable globe while smiling at the camera.

A large group of students and faculty pose together outdoors on campus, smiling and giving thumbs-up gestures.

For this week's Student Spotlight, we’re welcoming our new cohort of Mastercard Foundation Scholars! They’ve been busy with orientation activities on campus as they prepare to kick off the academic year.

Learn more about AUB's MCF program: tr.ee/mcf #AcademicSky #EduSky

Group photo of eight people standing in a row at an event hosted by the American University of Beirut, with two maroon banners featuring the university’s logo in the background. The promotional banner below the photo reads: 'HAWKAMA AND VISION 2030: THE REFORM OF GOVERNANCE IN SAUDI ARABIA.' A button below says 'WATCH NOW ON' with the YouTube logo.

AUB's Good Governance and Citizenship Observatory recently hosted a panel discussion which examined the drivers, mechanisms, and future impacts of reform, advancing dialogue on good governance across the Arab region.

Watch: tr.ee/vision2030 #AcademicSky

AUB’s Dr. Aram Yeretzian joins Majd Fayyad to discuss Net Zero in MENA—what’s driving or slowing progress, the power of energy efficiency, and why deep retrofits are a climate game-changer. Featuring a look at the design of our Charles Hostler Student Center!
Watch: tr.ee/MENA #Architecture

Promotional poster for an online mentoring talk titled 'The Path to the Nobel Prize' with Nobel Laureate Sir Richard J. Roberts. The poster features a portrait of Sir Richard smiling in a blue shirt against a black background. Event details read: Thursday, Sept 11, 2025 — 6:00 PM Beirut Time / 11:00 AM U.S. Eastern Time, via Webex. Watch live at bit.ly/MentoringNobelLaureateRoberts. Organized in partnership with Angewandte Chemie, the American University of Beirut, and TrEd (Transformative Education). Logos of the sponsors are displayed at the bottom. Hashtag: #TransformativeEducation.

"Both failure and luck are very important in research." — Sir Richard J. Roberts

Join AUB’s TrEd program on Thursday, Sept 11 at 11AM ET for a talk with Nobel Laureate Sir Richard J. Roberts as he shares his path to the Nobel Prize! #AcademicSky

SAVE THE DATE!
Don't miss this insightful conversation on rebuilding a stable statehood in the Middle East, co-hosted by SPA and @DiscoveringAUB.bsky.social.
Panelists: SPA Prof. @AbouAssi.bsky.social, AUB Profs. Tania Haddad and Simon Neaime. 🗓️9/18 🕑 12-1 PM📍New York City
👉 bit.ly/3V5ixNj

Portrait of Dr. Jihane Soueid, faculty member at the American University of Beirut Faculty of Medicine, standing in front of a campus building. Text overlay reads: 'Dr. Jihane Soueid – IBRO Rising Stars Award 2025, The International Brain Research Organization (IBRO).' AUB Faculty of Medicine logo appears in the top left corner, with the university seal in the bottom right.

For this week's #MedMondays, we're proud to spotlight AUB’s Dr. Jihane Soueid, winner of the 2025 IBRO Rising Stars Award—the first for a scientist from Lebanon! The award supports her neurodegeneration research and Lebanon’s first zebrafish research facility. #Neuroscience #MedSky 🧪

A square event flyer for the American University of Beirut titled: “When Trust is Lost: How to Rebuild Stable Statehood in the Middle East.” Event date: Thursday, September 18, 2025, from 12:00–1:00 pm ET, at The Debs Center – New York Office, with lunch to follow. Features moderator Margaret Besheer and speakers Dr. Tania Haddad, Dr. Simon Neaime, and Dr. Khaldoun AbouAssi. Includes logos of the American University of Beirut, the Faculty of Arts & Sciences, and American University School of Public Affairs.

Save the Date! Join us on September 18th in New York City for a thought-provoking conversation on how to restore stable statehood in the Middle East.

Stay tuned for registration details! #AcademicSky #UNGA2025

Portrait of Anji Bou Ezzeddine, BS in Medical Laboratory Sciences student at the American University of Beirut, standing outdoors with palm trees and campus buildings in the background. Text overlay reads 'Student Spotlight – Anji Bou Ezzeddine, BS in Medical Laboratory Sciences' in maroon and black font.

Text graphic introducing Anji Bou Ezzeddine with bullet points: junior in Medical Laboratory Sciences program at AUB; leads Community Support Projects Club with the Center for Civic Engagement and Community Service; coordinated initiatives addressing violence and its community impact; inspires peers to engage in civic initiatives; dedicated to fostering collaboration, inclusion, and resilience through civic engagement. Each bullet point includes a small emoji icon.

This week's Student Spotlight features Anji Bou Ezzeddine, a Medical Laboratory Sciences junior whose leadership in civic initiatives is fostering inclusion, resilience, and unity across the AUB community.

Keep an eye out for these spotlights every other week! #AcademicSky #EduSky

An MRI machine that looks like a pirate ship? Human-Centered Design uses metaphor to spark new thinking and create more empathetic, human solutions.

Hear more in the full podcast episode from MSFEA: tr.ee/HCD #MedSky 🛟

Cover of a working paper by the American University of Beirut’s Issam Fares Institute, titled "Towards a Socio-Technical and Responsible AI Transformation in Lebanon." The design features a large robotic hand holding a woman in casual clothing who is sitting and looking through binoculars. The authors are Fatima K. Abu Salem and Wissam Saade.

Can AI drive ethical and inclusive progress in Lebanon?

IFI's latest working paper lays out a responsible AI roadmap tailored to Lebanon’s unique social and political context—framing AI as both a technical and social project rooted in trust, equity, and local realities.

Read: tr.ee/AILebanon #AI