Ikram Mustapha Zoukh, a PhD student in Health Sciences at Qatar University (QU), has secured second place in the inaugural Three Minute Thesis (3MT) competition for the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region. The event, hosted by Hamad Bin Khalifa University (HBKU), brought together leading doctoral candidates from across the Arab world and Iran to present their complex research in just three minutes.
Regional Competition Gathers Top Doctoral Talent
The first-ever MENA 3MT competition featured 17 doctoral participants from 16 countries, including Qatar, Saudi Arabia, the UAE, Kuwait, Bahrain, Oman, Egypt, and Jordan. Organised by HBKU in collaboration with The University of Queensland, which founded the global 3MT initiative, the event provided a platform for emerging researchers to showcase their work. Such events are part of a growing focus on academic and scientific collaboration, similar to initiatives intended to accelerate green innovation and investment across the MENA region.
Zoukh’s Research on Pharmacist’s Role Earns Acclaim
Representing Qatar as the national 3MT winner, Zoukh presented her research titled, “The Missing Link: The Pharmacist’s Role in Tackling Therapeutic Inertia.” Her presentation successfully distilled her doctoral work into a concise and compelling format for a non-specialist audience, earning her the runner-up position.
Reflecting on her success, Zoukh credited her training at Qatar University. “This achievement is a testament to the quality of education and research training I’ve received at QU,” she said. “I am deeply grateful for the unwavering support and guidance of Prof Ahmed Awaisu, Dr Yaw Owusu and Dr Muhammad Abdul Hadi throughout this journey. I am grateful to have contributed to showcasing Qatar’s academic excellence on such a prestigious platform.”
Qatar University Praises Student’s Achievement
Officials at Qatar University celebrated Zoukh’s win as a reflection of the institution’s commitment to high-calibre research and effective science communication. Dr Feras Alali, director of QU’s Research and Graduate Studies, commended her ability to connect with the audience.
“Ikram’s ability to translate complex scientific research into an inspiring message for a broad audience reflects the heart of what the Health Sector stands for,” Dr Alali stated. He added that her work aligns with the goal of “advancing research that improves lives and strengthens the health of our communities,” a mission shared by other regional efforts like the initiative to transform global care.
The achievement highlights not only Zoukh’s individual talent but also the strength of Qatar’s growing higher education and research sectors. Her success on a regional stage reinforces the country’s position as a developing hub for academic and scientific inquiry.
