Dr. George Araj, professor and director of clinical microbiology at the Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, has been awarded the Abdul Hameed Shoman Prize for Arab Researchers 2024 within the field of Medical and Health Sciences in the category of “Antimicrobial Resistance" (AMR).
Established by the Abdul Hameed Shoman Foundation in 1982, the Arab Researchers' Award aims to support and highlight scientific research across the Arab world. This esteemed award celebrates outstanding scientific contributions that advance applied knowledge and address critical challenges locally, regionally, and globally.
Dr. Araj's groundbreaking research at AUB has provided profound insights into the complexities of AMR. His work includes the comprehensive characterization of both phenotypic and genotypic resistance mechanisms across a diverse range of pathogens. This research has illuminated the intricacies of drug resistance and its clinical implications, offering new perspectives on resistance patterns and potential intervention strategies. Dr. Araj's efforts have led to the development of targeted therapies and diagnostics, enhancing the effectiveness of antimicrobial policies and practices.
After earning his degree from AUB, Dr. Araj trained at several leading medical centers in the United States, including the Medical College of Ohio, Medical College of Virginia, Baylor College of Medicine, and M.D. Anderson Hospital & Tumor Institute in Houston, Texas. He is a certified as diplomat of the American Board of Medical Microbiology (ABMM) in Clinical Microbiology and was elected and bestowed the Fellowship of the American Academy of Microbiology (FAAM). Before joining AUB, Dr. Araj spent 9 years as a member of the Faculty of Medicine at Kuwait University and head of the Clinical Microbiology Unit at Mubarak al Kabeer University Hospital.
His scholarly contributions are extensive, with over 230 peer-reviewed publications in esteemed medical journals and numerous presentations at local, regional, and international conferences. Dr. Araj's work has made a significant impact on clinical practices. In 2021, he was ranked as the top Clinical Microbiologist in Lebanon by the AD Scientific Index World Scientists and University Ranking, and in 2023 was also ranked among the top 2% of the World's Most Cited Researchers, reflecting his prominence in the field.
Dr. Araj stated, “I want to extend my gratitude to AUB, the Faculty of Medicine, and AUBMC for everything you have done to elevate research and enhance AUB's global standing. I hope to continue bringing recognition to AUB on national, regional, and international platforms." His continued dedication to research and innovation promises to drive further progress in the field, contributing to improved global health outcomes and inspiring future generations of researchers.