ILMA USA Supports Lebanese Medical graduates with Research Grants
Every year, ILMA USA funds scholarships to support Lebanese students in their medical research at the University of Kansas. This year, we are proud to announce that six research fellows have been granted a one year positions through the “ILMA-KU Research Fellow Program 2024.”
These scholarships, totaling $275,000, reflect ILMA’s commitment to nurturing future medical professionals and advancing academic excellence.
The ILMA USA Kansas Chapter, in partnership with the University of Kansas School of Medicine and generous donors from the Lebanese community, has secured the necessary funds to support these students in their research studies. We are proud of our research fellows and their dedication to advancing medical knowledge.
2024 ILMA-KU research fellows
Dr. Laura ElHalabi
Hematology/Oncology
Dr. Laura Halabi, is a Postdoctoral Research Fellow in oncology at the American University of Beirut Medical Center. She earned her medical degree from the University of Balamand and specializes in clinical trial management and cancer registry analysis. She previously worked as a Research Assistant, focusing on quality control and tumor marker reports.
Dr. Sandra El Chehayeb
Gastroenterology
Dr. Sandra Chehayeb, graduated from the University of Balamand in 2021 and completed a one-year internal medicine residency at Saint Georges Hospital University Medical Center. Currently, she is a postdoctoral research fellow in Radiation Oncology at the American University of Beirut. She volunteers at free clinics in Beirut and participated in the Scholars in Health Research Program (SHARP) to gain skills in epidemiology and biostatistics.
Dr. Lina Dimachkie
Hematology/Oncology
Dr. Lina Dimachkie earned her M.D. from the American University of Beirut (AUB) in June 2024, graduating in the top 15% of her class. She also holds a Biology degree from AUB, earned in 2020 with distinction. Her research on intermittent fasting and cardiometabolic health is published in respected journals. Dr. Dimachkie volunteers as Head of the Student Curriculum Committee, a clinical volunteer at AUB Heal Clinic, and leads OB-GYN Interest Group fundraisers.
Dr. Fawzi Elias
Gastroenterology
Dr. Fawzi Elias attended the University of Balamand, where he earned his Bachelor’s degree in Biology with great distinction and his MD with distinction. He completed a one-year internship in Internal Medicine at Notre Dame University Hospital, Jounieh, and has recently been selected for a post-doctoral fellowship at Kansas Gastroenterology in Wichita. He aspires to pursue a residency in Internal Medicine in the USA. Fawzi also holds a piano diploma and enjoys playing classical music in his free time.
Dr. Nicolas Najm
Anesthesia
Dr. Nicolas Najm, an MD graduate from the American University of Beirut, specializes in anesthesia and minimally invasive surgery. He has contributed to several research projects and volunteered at free student-led clinics, providing essential services to underserved communities. Dr. Najm has authored two publications in high-impact medical journals. In his free time, he enjoys biking and reading. With a strong foundation in medical research and a dedication to patient care, Dr. Najm aims to be a leading figure among emerging medical professionals.
Dr. Siman Antar
Surgery
Dr. Siman Antar is a hardworking and adaptable medical graduate from Beirut Arab University with a strong aptitude for rapid learning and exceptional social skills. His involvement within the surgical department has provided him with insights into surgical procedures and patient care. He served as a paramedic with the Lebanese Red Cross during medical school, gaining extensive hands-on experience in emergency medical services. He has a strong interest in surgery and is dedicated to learning about various medical specializations. Siman is eager to contribute his skills and enthusiasm to a dynamic healthcare environment.
At the ILMA Conference in Beirut on July 5-6, 2024, ILMA-USA announced the ILMA Scholarship Program. During the opening ceremony, some of the distinguished research fellows were present to receive awards supporting their participation in the “ILMA-KU Research Fellow Program 2024” at the University of Kansas.