LAB MEMBERS

 Jihane Soueid, Ph.D.

Principal Investigator

Jihane is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Anatomy, Cell Biology, and Physiological Sciences at the American University of Beirut (AUB), where she leads cutting-edge research in neuroscience. With a PhD in Neurosciences from Université Pierre et Marie Curie in Paris, Jihane has over 10 years of experience in both teaching and research. Her work spans multiple neurobiological topics, including neurodegenerative diseases, autism spectrum disorders, traumatic brain injury, and neurogenesis. Jihane is particularly interested in understanding the molecular and cellular mechanisms that contribute to brain development and dysfunction, using advanced in vivo models such as mice, zebrafish, and chicken. She has pioneered research into autism susceptibility genes in the Lebanese population. Her expertise extends to complex techniques like microarray-based chromosomal studies, behavioral analysis, immunohistochemistry, and gene expression profiling. Jihane’s current research interests focus on understanding the molecular mechanisms that underlie neurodegenerative diseases, including tauopathies and Progressive Supranuclear Palsy (PSP), as well as traumatic brain injury (TBI). Her research aims to identify novel biomarkers and therapeutic targets for these complex conditions, with a focus on unraveling the genetic, molecular, and cellular factors that contribute to their onset and progression. In her spare time, Jihane enjoys cooking, spending time with family and friends and traveling.

Alaa El Makkawi, M.S.

Research Assistant

Alaa obtained her Bachelors in Chemistry and her Masters in Neuroscience from the American University of Beirut. During her graduate studies, her research focused on neurogenesis and neuroplasticity. She primarily examined diverse variables’ effects including peripheral inflammation in the bladder via lipopolysaccharide, lysine deficiency, fosfomycin and meropenem on neurogenesis and cognitive functions. Alaa is currently investigating further the mechanisms of tauopathies especially progressive supranuclear palsy and traumatic brain injury. She enjoys sports including football and snowboarding as well as indulging into creative and new adventures.

Ghida Temraz, M.S.

Research Assistant

Ghida received a Bachelor’s degree in Biology from the Lebanese University in 2020. She completed her Master 1 in Applied Animal Biology in 2021 and Master 2 in Behavioral and Cognitive Neuroscience in 2022, from the same institution. During her Master’s studies, she evaluated the effect of the economic crisis in Lebanon on admitted psychiatric patients in the Psychiatric Hospital of the Cross. Her study focused on relapse rates and duration, and medication use, while considering socio-demographic characteristics, patient diagnosis, and general attitudes. Her current research interests focus on understanding neurodegenerative diseases, including Tauopathies, Parkinson’s disease, and Traumatic Brain Injuries. She aims to improve patient outcomes to uncover the underlying mechanisms of these conditions. In addition to her academic and research pursuits, she is an active volunteer with the Lebanese Red Cross. She is also passionate about music, which she believes enhances her creativity and well-being.

Daniel Bou Najm, M.S.

Research Assistant

Daniel obtained his undergraduate degree in Biology and master’s degree in Neuroscience from the Lebanese University. During graduate school, he explored the implication of the Wnt signaling pathway in the pathogenesis of autism. In addition, he was involved in diverse studies including the impact of Mediterranean diet on sleep and mental well-being, as well as cross-cultural adaptation of the Multifactorial Memory Questionnaire (MMQ). His primary research interest is focused on studying genetic alterations and their underlying impact on neurological diseases. Particularly, he is eager to investigate these processes at the molecular, cellular and electrophysiological levels. In his free time, he enjoys watching movies and listening to music.

Yara Baradie

Master Student

Yara earned her Bachelor’s in Life and Earth Sciences from the Lebanese University and is pursuing a Master’s in Neuroscience at the American University of Beirut. Her thesis research explores the interplay of traumatic brain injury and heavy metal exposure. Early in her journey, she remains deeply curious about neurodegenerative disease and hopes to contribute meaningfully to the field. Outside the lab, she carries a heart for service, engaging with local communities through non-profit work. She finds balance in nature, ether hiking through forests or swimming in the sea, and continues to be shaped by a quiet commitment to both learning and loving well.

Nour Cherfane

Master Student

Nour Cherfane is a medical speech and language therapist working across multiple hospitals, providing specialized intervention for geriatric patients with complex neurological conditions. Motivated by the clinical challenges she encounters daily, she chose to pursue a Master’s in Neuroscience at the American University of Beirut to bridge the gap between clinical symptomatology and the molecular mechanisms underlying neurodegenerative diseases. Her research centers on progressive supranuclear palsy (PSP), a rare and often overlooked condition. Through her thesis, she aims to be among the first in Lebanon to investigate potential genetic variants linked to PSP, seeking molecular clues that might explain its clinical presentation and open new therapeutic avenues. Outside the lab and clinic, Nour is also a pianist, an artistic outlet that brings her balance, focus, and emotional expression, complementing the scientific precision of her work.

Join Us

We are always looking for enthusiastic scientists. To apply, please email Dr. Soueid a CV and a letter of motivation.