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Tag: United Arab Emirates

AU Researcher Advances PCOS Diagnosis

Posted on by Ajman University

Dr. Sulagna Dutta, Chair of Research and Assistant Professor in Physiology at the College of Medicine, Ajman University, has been honored with the prestigious Junior Innovator Award at the 2nd International Conference on Recent Innovations in Biological, Chemical & Clinical Sciences (RIBCCS 2025), held in Malaysia.

Jointly presented by Manipal University College Malaysia, Periyar University (India), and the Microbiologists Society India (MSI), the award recognizes young scientists for their impactful contributions to biomedical research. Dr. Dutta was recognized for her pioneering work in infertility research, particularly in the early diagnosis and risk stratification of Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS). Her research integrates anthropometric, hormonal, and metabolic markers to develop predictive models that support earlier intervention and improved clinical outcomes in women’s health.

Dr. Dutta presented this body of work as an Invited Speaker at the RIBCCS 2025 conference, delivering a talk titled: “Predictive Risk Assessment Model for Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) Using Anthropometric, Hormonal, and Metabolic Parameters.”The presentation highlighted her AU-funded research aimed at developing diagnostic tools that could transform clinical practice in reproductive medicine.

“Receiving the Junior Innovator Award is both an honor and a responsibility,” said Dr. Dutta. “It affirms the significance of our work in addressing one of the most underdiagnosed conditions in women’s health. This recognition strengthens our commitment to advancing research that can lead to earlier diagnoses, more effective interventions, and ultimately, a better quality of life for women affected by infertility and PCOS.

PCOS affects 1 in 10 women globally, yet many remain undiagnosed for years. Dr. Dutta’s predictive models offer a promising pathway for earlier, more accurate screening, potentially improving fertility outcomes and long-term health interventions across the region.

Dr. Dutta’s international recognition builds on her impressive academic profile, which includes a #2 Expertscape ranking in Malaysia in reproductive health and her inclusion in the Top 2% of Scientists worldwide by Stanford University’s Global Ranking since 2020.

This achievement further reinforces Ajman University College of Medicine’s mission to advance evidence-based, community-centered healthcare education and research. Dr. Dutta’s ongoing work exemplifies the college’s commitment to addressing real-world healthcare challenges and enhancing the quality of life through scientific innovation.

AU to Lead Global DNS Security Project

Posted on by Ajman University

Ajman University has secured a prestigious international grant from the Internet Corporation for Assigned Names and Numbers (ICANN) worth USD 410,300.00, in the inaugural cycle of the ICANN Grant Program. This competitive international award, secured through the dedicated efforts of Prof. Rao Naveed Bin Rais from the College of Engineering and Information Technology, will support the development of a groundbreaking system to archive and analyze global data related to the Domain Name System Security Extensions (DNSSEC) — a vital cybersecurity protocol that safeguards the integrity of Internet infrastructure.

The project aims to build a 24/7 operational platform that analyzes historical DNSSEC data, identifies vulnerabilities, and highlights gaps in its global implementation. This first-of-its-kind system will offer diagnostic tools with visual analysis, helping enhance DNSSEC adoption worldwide.

Ajman University is the only institution in the Middle East to receive this grant, and one of just 23 selected entities out of 247 global applicants. Out of 23 entities, only 3 are selected from Asia including Ajman University. Moreover, AU is also among the only five universities worldwide to receive the award — including three from Europe, one from Latin America, and Ajman University as the sole representative from Asia.

This milestone reinforces Ajman University’s global standing, particularly as it enabled the University to obtain U.S.-equivalent charitable organization status — a prerequisite for applying to this grant. This designation aligns with AU’s identity as a non-profit academic institution and paves the way for securing additional international funding opportunities that support its academic and community missions. Being the only awardee from both the Middle East and the only university from the Asia highlights the University’s ability to compete at the highest levels in fields such as cybersecurity and Internet governance.

The grant-funded project represents a significant addition to the University’s research and technological infrastructure. It involves the development of a passive, integrated system to collect and analyze DNSSEC data — the first of its kind globally — and is expected to boost AU’s international visibility as global Internet community begins using the platform. The project will also include the establishment of a high-tech hardware lab on campus, further strengthening AU’s capacity for applied research and innovation in digital infrastructure.

The initiative promises to create research and training opportunities for AU graduates, while providing current students and researchers access to valuable datasets for research and development purposes — supporting their growth in analytical and technical skills.

The project addresses a major global challenge related to the implementation of DNSSEC, a protocol strongly advocated by global Internet bodies like ICANN and IETF for securing the DNS ecosystem. In the adoption of DNSSEC protocol, one of the main obstacles has been the lack of visibility into global adoption and implementation gaps. Through the newly developed system, Ajman University seeks to bridge that gap by monitoring and analyzing DNSSEC adoption across Internet domain names worldwide.

This project reflects Ajman University’s strong commitment to leveraging scientific research in service of global challenges and underscores its active role in building secure and sustainable digital infrastructure that benefits academic and technical communities both locally and globally.

CXO Connect: AU Bridges Academia and Industry

Posted on by Ajman University

As part of its strategic commitment to enhancing graduate employability, Ajman University (AU) launched its flagship CXO Connect initiative—a platform designed to bridge the gap between higher education and industry. Through curated engagements with top executives, the initiative equips students with real-world insights, leadership perspectives, and the skills needed to thrive in an increasingly competitive job market.

In a recent session titled “Leading with Creativity: How Executive Leadership Drives Innovation and Impact,” AU convened a distinguished panel of industry leaders: Mr. Sajith Ansar, Founder and CEO of Idea Spice; Mr. Jatin Kalra, Vice President of Apparel Group; and Mr. Christoph Koster, CEO of ruya. The session was moderated by Dr. Abeer Al Ghananeem, Dean of the College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences.

The panelists shared insights on the role of creativity in executive leadership, the importance of long-term strategic thinking, and how today’s graduates can position themselves for sustained success. A recurring theme was the growing demand for soft skills, including empathy, adaptability, and communication—essential qualities that complement technical expertise in the modern workplace.

Reflecting on the strategic significance of the initiative, Dr. Karim Seghir, Chancellor of Ajman University, stated: “AU has launched the CXO Connect program to cultivate a robust ecosystem of industry partnerships. This initiative is designed to develop highly-skilled talent, promote industry-relevant research, and champion continuous learning. By doing so, AU aims to contribute to the UAE’s national vision of becoming a prominent leader in the global knowledge economy.”

Panelists also underscored the UAE’s growing role as a global innovation and entrepreneurship hub, highlighting the rise of homegrown ventures, fintech expansion, and the country’s long-term commitment to economic diversification.

Through initiatives like CXO Connect, Ajman University reinforces its position as a catalyst for career readiness and innovation—ensuring that its graduates are not only academically equipped, but also industry-aware, globally competitive, and future-focused.

AU Recognized for Sustainability Education

Posted on by Ajman University

Ajman University is proud to announce that it has won the prestigious QS Reimagine Education Award 2024 for “Sustainability Education Action.” This accolade was awarded in recognition of the University’s groundbreaking initiative, the ‘Greening Communities: Mangrove Planting Project.’ This honor underscores the University’s commitment to environmental sustainability and its dedication to empowering youth and communities with the necessary skills and knowledge to drive the UAE’s ambitious sustainability goals.

The project’s objectives align with the UAE’s national plan to plant 100 million mangrove trees by 2030. Spearheaded by Ajman University’s Office of Sustainability, in partnership with Al Zorah Development Private Company and Quest for Adventure, the initiative engages students and local communities in the preservation and rejuvenation of mangrove ecosystems, highlighting Ajman University’s pivotal role in advancing a sustainable future.

Reflecting on this significant achievement, Dr. Karim Seghir, Chancellor of Ajman University, said, “Receiving the QS Reimagine Education Award for Sustainability Education Action is a powerful validation of our commitment to sustainability. It invigorates our efforts to engage youth and communities in impactful environmental action, driving meaningful change in alignment with the UAE’s sustainability objectives.”

The project incorporates a variety of educational programs and workshops designed to heighten awareness about critical environmental issues. These initiatives equip participants with the skills and knowledge needed to tackle environmental challenges, empowering them to become advocates for positive change within their communities.

Moreover, the initiative supports several United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, including Quality Education, Climate Action, Life on Land, and Partnerships for the Goals.

The QS Reimagine Education Award is a highly esteemed honor within the education sector, recognizing innovative approaches that enhance learning outcomes, improve employability, and advance sustainability education. Now in its 11th year, the award features 17 categories, celebrating transformative educational practices globally. Each year, the competition attracts over 1,200 submissions from around the world, evaluated by a distinguished panel of more than 900 international expert judges.

AU Leads Stem Cell Healing Breakthrough

Posted on by Ajman University

Chronic wounds—resulting from diabetes, burns, and vascular conditions—represent a growing global health crisis, affecting millions and straining healthcare systems worldwide. The urgent need for effective, accessible, and less invasive treatments has placed regenerative medicine at the forefront of medical innovation.

In response to this challenge, Dr. Ibrahim El Serafi, Associate Professor and Head of the Basic Medical Sciences Department at the College of Medicine, Ajman University, has been awarded the Thumbay International Research Grant 2025 to lead a groundbreaking project on skin regeneration and wound healing.

His research explores the potential of epigenetic compounds—Vorinostat and CID1067700—to stimulate the differentiation of stem cells into keratinocytes, the key cells responsible for skin formation. The aim: to develop a topical, non-surgical therapy and personalized skin grafts for patients suffering from chronic, non-healing wounds.

The project has far-reaching implications for personalized and regenerative medicine, offering a viable alternative to traditional skin grafting procedures, which often involve donor sites, risk of infection, and limited availability.

Through rigorous in vitro and in vivo studies, the project will assess therapeutic efficacy, genotoxic safety, and clinical applicability. If successful, it could lay the foundation for next-generation treatments for wounds caused by diabetes, trauma, and vascular diseases.

In partnership with Gulf Medical University (UAE) and Linköping University (Sweden), this project exemplifies Ajman University’s strategic focus on translational research and global collaboration. It reinforces the University’s growing reputation as a regional leader in advancing health sciences and biomedical innovation.

This milestone reflects Ajman University’s commitment as a non-profit institution to advancing impactful research that addresses real-world challenges. By nurturing scientific inquiry and fostering strategic partnerships, AU continues to align with national and global priorities—contributing to a more sustainable, healthier future.

Together, We Can: AU’s Bold Non-Profit Future

Posted on by Ajman University

Ajman University hosted its 2025 Reunion Gala under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Ammar bin Humaid Al Nuaimi, Crown Prince of Ajman, Chairman of Ajman Executive Council, and Chairman of Ajman University’s Board of Trustees. The event, held in the presence of His Excellency Dr. Sheikh Majid Bin Saeed Al Nuaimi, Chairman of the Ajman Ruler’s Court, brought together distinguished alumni, strategic partners, and friends of the University to celebrate shared achievements and reaffirm the institution’s mission-driven future as a private, non-profit university.

Themed “Together, We Can,” the gala reflected the University’s commitment to inclusiveness, excellence, innovation, sustainability, and social responsibility—values that mirror the broader aspirations of the UAE. One of the evening’s visual highlights was a mesmerizing laser show, which unveiled the pillars of the campaign and the University’s future-focused vision in a truly dazzling display of light, music, and meaning.

In his welcoming address, Dr. Karim Seghir, Chancellor of Ajman University, stated:“This evening celebrates not only what we’ve achieved together, but what we are determined to accomplish moving forward. As a non-profit university, every contribution is reinvested directly into students, faculty, and society. We are building not just a university, but a movement for access, excellence, and a better tomorrow.”

Dr. Seghir further emphasized: “Together, we can expand opportunity. Together, we can light the path for those who will, in turn, light the way for others. And I am confident that together, we will.”

The University recently achieved major international recognition, ranking among the top 500 universities worldwide and securing the #1 position in the UAE for employer reputation according to the 2025 QS World University Rankings. Ajman University also earned:

#1 in the UAE in Data Science & Artificial Intelligence,
#1 in Pharmacy & Pharmaceutical Sciences, and
#2 in Computer Science, Information Systems, and Mathematics.

These results mark AU’s rapid ascent in areas that define the future of work and knowledge economies.

A central moment of the gala was the Recognition Ceremony, in which the University honored a select group of partners and donors for their steadfast support and meaningful contributions. The awards were presented by H.E. Dr. Sheikh Majid Bin Saeed Al Nuaimi and Dr. Karim Seghir to the following entities, listed in alphabetical order: H.E. Ali AlAssi, Al Rostamani Group, AWRostamani Group, Dar Al Ber Society, Easa Saleh Al Gurg Group, Fast Building Contracting, IFFCO, International Charity Organization, and Tiger Group.

This recognition reflects the critical role of partnership in shaping AU’s journey and expanding its academic and community impact.

The evening concluded with captivating performances, followed by a dinner reception and a raffle draw featuring exceptional prizes sponsored by generous partners.

As Ajman University looks ahead, its roadmap is firmly anchored in accessibility, innovation, and societal impact. The University will continue to expand financial aid, invest in frontier research, and strengthen global partnerships, aligned with UAE Vision 2030 and the nation’s pursuit of sustainable, inclusive development.

Sharjah Scholar Leads UAE in Global Ranking

Posted on by [email protected]

Professor Ilhan Ozturk from the University of Sharjah has been named the top researcher in the United Arab Emirates, according to the 2024 edition of the globally recognized Stanford-Elsevier Top 2% Scientists list. This distinction places Professor Ozturk not only at the forefront of academic research within the UAE but also among the most influential scientists globally.

The Stanford-Elsevier ranking, developed by a research team at Stanford University and Elsevier, identifies the top 2% of scientists worldwide based on a composite indicator that includes total citations, h-index, and co-authorship-adjusted impact. In the 2024 release, Professor Ozturk was ranked 167th globally and 7th in his subfield, out of over 210,000 researchers evaluated across multiple disciplines. His high citation impact underscores the breadth and global relevance of his work.

Currently serving as Dean of the College of Business Administration at the University of Sharjah, Professor Ozturk is internationally renowned for his research in energy economics, sustainability, and macroeconomic development. His scholarship has focused on the interplay between energy consumption, environmental degradation, and economic growth—providing policymakers with evidence-based insights critical to shaping energy and climate policy. With numerous highly cited publications in indexed journals, his research continues to influence both academic discourse and real-world policy frameworks.

This national recognition aligns with the University of Sharjah’s strong performance on the 2024 Top 2% Scientists list. Remarkably, five of the top 10 researchers in the UAE hail from the University of Sharjah, a testament to its sustained investment in research infrastructure, international collaboration, and faculty excellence. The remaining top-ranked researchers include two from Khalifa University of Science and Technology, two from Mohammed Bin Rashid University of Medicine and Health Sciences (MBRU), and one from United Arab Emirates University.

From a QS perspective, this strong showing reinforces the University of Sharjah’s growing influence in regional and global higher education ecosystems. Research output and citation impact are key indicators in major global university rankings, including the QS World University Rankings. Institutions that consistently cultivate high-impact research—such as the University of Sharjah—enhance their academic reputation, attract international partnerships, and contribute significantly to national innovation agendas. The presence of five top-10 researchers at UoS illustrates not only the quality of its academic talent but also the university’s role in elevating the UAE’s standing in global research competitiveness.

As universities worldwide seek to balance excellence in teaching, research, and innovation, the case of Professor Ilhan Ozturk and the University of Sharjah demonstrates how strategic academic leadership and research-driven policies can result in global recognition. The full UAE list and details on global rankings can be found at:

Top 10 Researchers from United Arab Emirates

Ajman University Gala Celebrates Remarkable Achievements

Posted on by Ajman University

Under the esteemed patronage of His Highness Sheikh Ammar bin Humaid Al Nuaimi, Crown Prince of Ajman, Chairman of the Executive Council, and Chairman of the Board of Trustees of Ajman University, Sheikh Rashid bin Humaid Al Nuaimi, Chairman of Ajman Municipality and Planning Department and Vice Chairman of Ajman University’s Board of Trustees, attended Ajman University Gala celebrating the University’s recent local and international achievements.

The event, held at Sheikh Zayed Hall for Conferences and Exhibitions on campus, was graced by the presence of distinguished guests. These included Professor Dr. Mohammed Yousef Baniyas, Higher Education Advisor and Director of the Academic Accreditation Commission at the UAE Ministry of Education, and Dr. Ashwin Fernandez, Executive Director of QS in the Middle East, Africa, and South Asia. The gala also saw the attendance of several prominent figures, alumni, faculty members, and administrative staff.

Sheikh Rashid bin Humaid Al Nuaimi expressed his pride in the University’s accomplishments, stating, “We are proud of Ajman University’s achievements, realized through the vision and support of His Highness Sheikh Humaid bin Rashid Al Nuaimi and His Highness Sheikh Ammar bin Humaid Al Nuaimi, along with the dedication of our faculty and staff who have prioritized academic and research excellence. We have always committed to providing high-quality educational programs that foster an inspiring learning environment aligned with global developments.”

He added, “With support from the Ministry of Education, Ajman University has developed diverse programs that implement best global practices, contributing to our rise to the 477th position globally. This marks a new milestone for us. We aim to continue providing inclusive and high-quality education, enhancing our status as a leading educational institution.”

In his opening remarks, Dr. Karim Seghir, Chancellor of Ajman University, underscored the University’s unwavering commitment to academic excellence and innovation. He stated, “This gala is a testament to our continuous efforts and relentless pursuit of excellence and leadership. The trust of our partners and community members is the driving force behind our achievements, and their unwavering support helps us realize our vision.” He added, “Notable achievements this year include our transformation into a non-profit institution and our advanced ranking in the QS classification, reflecting our commitment to academic excellence and innovation. We are dedicated to enhancing scientific research and supporting our students’ professional journeys to achieve further successes and elevate the standard of higher education in our region.”

Professor Dr. Mohammed Yousef Baniyas highlighted in his speech that Ajman University’s transition to a non-profit institution aligns with its commitment to providing the highest quality education accessible to all, thereby reinforcing its mission and role in serving the community. This transformation is consistent with the UAE’s dedication to promoting inclusive and equitable education for all and building a knowledge-based, innovative, and sustainable society.

Dr. Ashwin Fernandez, in his speech, commended the University for its significant progress over the years. He particularly highlighted the University’s win of the “Most Improved University in the Arab Region” award from QS, a recognition of its dedication to academic excellence. He emphasized that Ajman University’s leading reputation among employers in the UAE reflects its commitment to academic excellence and creating an educational environment that meets the latest global standards. The University was honored by QS for its steadfast dedication to academic excellence and educational innovation.

The evening concluded with musical performances that added a joyful and celebratory atmosphere.

The College of Mass Communication at Ajman University Receives International Accreditation from the Accrediting Council on Education in Journalism and Mass Communications (ACEJMC)

Posted on by Ajman University

In a significant stride towards global recognition and excellence, the College of Mass Communication at Ajman University has been awarded international accreditation by the Accrediting Council on Education in Journalism and Mass Communications (ACEJMC). This prestigious acknowledgment places Ajman University among a select group of five universities in the Arab region to receive this accreditation, underscoring its commitment to upholding the highest standards of academic excellence and professional readiness in mass communication.

The ACEJMC accreditation is renowned worldwide for its rigorous standards that evaluate the quality of education in journalism and mass communications programs, focusing on areas such as curriculum, faculty competence, facilities, and student services. By meeting these standards, Ajman University demonstrates its dedication to providing top-tier educational experiences that are both comprehensive and adaptive to the evolving demands of the media and communications industry.

Dr. Hosam Salama, Dean of the College of Mass Communication, expressed, \”This prestigious accreditation by the ACEJMC is a testament to our unwavering commitment to uphold the highest standards of quality and academic excellence. It not only enhances the College’s reputation both locally and internationally but also opens new horizons for our students and faculty, equipping them to meet the challenges of a dynamic job market. We are dedicated to continuously advancing our educational strategies and infrastructure, incorporating the latest in technological innovations to enrich the learning experience.\”

This international accreditation is a momentous achievement for the College of Mass Communication at Ajman University, solidifying its role as a frontrunner in media education not just in the UAE but across the region. It serves as a testament to the university\’s innovative teaching methods, cutting-edge facilities, and robust industry connections that offer its students unparalleled professional exposure. In addition to the ACEJMC accreditation, the College of Mass Communication at Ajman University is also accredited by AQAS, further cementing its position as a premier institution for media studies.

Ajman University Professor Recognised for Outstanding Contribution to Industrial Marketing Management

Posted on by Ajman University

The Digital Transformation Research Center (DTRC) at Ajman University is proud to announce that Professor Guangming Cao from DTRC has been honored for his outstanding contribution to the field of industrial marketing. The prestigious journal Industrial Marketing Management (IMM) (A* in ABDC, CABS3, and 94% in Scopus) recently awarded the IMM Best Paper Award 2023 to a ground-breaking article co-authored by Professor Guangming Cao and Professor Jay Weerawardena from the Business School at the University of Queensland.

Their winning article, titled “Strategic use of social media in marketing and financial performance: the B2B SME context,” explores the strategic use of social media in enhancing market-sensing and customer-linking capabilities that influence the performance of business-to-business small and medium-sized enterprises (B2B SMEs). Their research provides valuable insights into how B2B SMEs can effectively leverage social media to enhance their market-sensing and customer-linking capabilities and achieve sustainable competitive advantages.

This accolade is a testament to the outstanding quality, originality, and significance of research and scholarship at DTRC, Ajman University. We thank Professor Cao for his contribution to the field and his service to the academic community.