Hamad Bin Khalifa University (HBKU) announced the introduction of a Master of Science and a PhD in Genomics and Precision Medicine (GPM) programme from autumn 2017 at a meeting of university stakeholders that was held recently at the HKBU Student Center. Discussions at the meeting highlighted how the new programme has the potential to support the significant efforts being made towards developing efficient, patient-focused healthcare solutions in Qatar.
In a world first, the new programme provides advanced, holistic teaching across all the main areas of genomics and precision medicine, including clinical, technical, and bioethical aspects. It also offers students the opportunity to undertake extensive hands-on research experience.
The programme will provide advanced training in a fast-growing healthcare sector that integrates cutting-edge technological methods with recent advances in medicine at the molecular level in order to understand the biology of individuals and tailor treatment for individual patients. HBKU will be helping bolster Qatar’s drive towards supporting genome-based scientific discovery by supporting students who will be expected to join the programme having had prior experience of studying the sciences and who will probably come from medicine, healthcare, and associated fields.
Qatar is well positioned to become a global leader in the provision of healthcare services and the launch of HBKU’s GPM programme stems from a need, identified by the Ministry of Public Health in Qatar, to provide multi-disciplinary academic training for future professionals and researchers in the field.
The continued formation of new educational initiatives is part of HBKU’s mission to build and cultivate human capacity through enriching multi-disciplinary programmes, as envisioned in Qatar National Vision 2030.
How to apply
Applications are now being accepted for the first batch of GPM students and an information session will be held at the Liberal Arts and Science Building (LAS Building) within Education City on 19 April at 5 pm. Potential students will have the chance to meet with faculty to get detailed information on the programme’s curriculum and will also get to discuss the application process with representatives of HBKU’s admissions team.
For more information and for online application, prospective students can check out hbku.edu.qa.