Research is driven by curiosity, shaped by critical inquiry, and sustained by perseverance. On October 22 and 23, 2026, Saint Joseph University of Beirut (USJ) celebrated the talent and achievements of its emerging scholars at the second edition of Doctoral Research Days. Organized by the Vice-Rectorate for Research in collaboration with USJ’s Doctoral Schools, the two-day event showcased the breadth of doctoral research across disciplines, offering PhD candidates an opportunity to present their work, engage in scholarly exchange, and demonstrate why USJ has every reason to be proud of its next generation of researchers.

Opening the event, USJ Vice-Rector for Research Nassim Fares underscored the vital contribution PhD candidates are already making to the University’s research. “Our PhD candidates are not merely the researchers of tomorrow; they are already the researchers of today.” Addressing the growing role of artificial intelligence in academia, he emphasized that AI should enhance, rather than replace, the critical thinking, independent judgment, and ethical responsibility essential to rigorous research.

Jean-Noël Baléo, Middle East Regional Director of the Agence Universitaire de la Francophonie (AUF), praised the strong partnership between AUF and USJ and the University’s commitment to multilingual research. He reminded PhD candidates that their work contributes to knowledge as a public good, a responsibility of particular importance in Lebanon. “Your expertise is essential to the country’s recovery and even its sovereignty,” he emphasized.

Christophe Musitelli, Director of the Institut français du Liban and Counselor for Cooperation and Cultural Affairs at the French Embassy, praised the remarkable range of research presented and the resilience of an academic community that continues to teach, conduct research, and share knowledge despite ongoing challenges. He also reaffirmed France’s commitment to supporting USJ in training the next generation of researchers.

Representing the President of the National Council for Scientific Research-Lebanon (CNRS-L), Vice-President Sateh El Arnaout paid tribute to the PhD candidates’ determination under exceptionally difficult circumstances. “You have done more than write dissertations; you have defended the very future of Lebanese intellectual life,” he told them, urging them to put their expertise to work for their country. “Your country needs your intellect now more than ever.”

Concluding the opening remarks, Prof. François Boëdec, SJ, Rector of USJ, set out the University’s broader vision for doctoral education: to cultivate not only specialists in their fields, but also independent thinkers who can work across disciplines and use their expertise to serve the common good. He closed with a message of confidence and continued support for the PhD candidates: “We believe in you, and you can count on us.”

Celebrating USJ’s Research Excellence

The opening ceremony also paid tribute to seven USJ researchers named among the world’s top 2% of scientists in the Stanford–Elsevier ranking, a testament to the international reach and impact of the University’s research. Professors Walid Ammar, Amal Dabbous, Louis Hardan, Hadi Kanaan, and Ghassan Yared earned the distinction for the second consecutive year, while Professors Nelly Ziade Zoghbi and Ismat Ghanem made their debut on the list. In recognition of their achievements, Prof. Boëdec awarded the two newcomers USJ’s 150^th Anniversary Medal, honoring their contributions to research and the distinction they have brought to the University.

Two Days of Research Across Disciplines

Throughout the two-day event, PhD candidates showcased their research through oral presentations, poster sessions, and discussions covering fields as diverse as science and health, law and political science, economics, the humanities and social sciences, education, engineering, and technology. Together, their work offered a compelling picture of the breadth and depth of doctoral research at USJ.

Two keynote lectures tackled pressing questions about research integrity and career prospects for PhD graduates. Michel Dubois, Director of the French Office for Research Integrity (OFIS), addressed the challenges of maintaining research integrity and public trust in science, while Jennifer Polk, a PhD career specialist, examined career paths beyond academia and the uncertainties facing doctoral graduates.

Several PhD candidates received awards recognizing the quality of their research presentations.

Oral presentation awards went to Loubna Ayoub (FM), Stéphanie Mrad (FMD), Jowy Abi Hanna (ISSP), Anthony Nakhlé (ISP), Maria Gharib (FDSP), Miguel Mendelek (ISP), Rayane Yamout (FSE), Reem El Eit (FSE), Samia Kaakour (FSE), Nour El Nasrani (ETIB), Joanne Abi Aad Doumit (FLSH), Evelyne Hlais (IESAV), Léa Safetly (FS), Marc Moussan (FS), and Mariam Tabaja (ESIB). Research poster awards went to Maya Haddad (IPM), Ghina El Hage Chehade (FP), Fadi Moussallem (FSE), Rima Amacha (FSEDU), and Carla Richa Dagher (ESTS).

Beyond the presentations and discussions, the second edition of Doctoral Research Days revealed the strength and vitality of research at USJ, driven by a new generation of scholars whose curiosity, dedication, and determination are already making a difference. By giving PhD candidates a platform to share their findings, challenge ideas, and articulate their ambitions, the University reaffirmed its confidence in their ability to advance knowledge and put research to work for society. Their future holds promise. Their achievements already make USJ proud.

Photo Album

Also read: À l’USJ, une nouvelle génération fait avancer la recherche