Waddah Malaeb, a Lebanese mechanical engineer and biomedical researcher, recently impressed the jury of Stars of Science and won himself a place at the contest’s grand finale with his Ductal Organoid-on-a-Chip
Stars of Science is a scientific contest that aims to adopt a group of young innovators from about 16 countries in the region to participate with their ideas. This initiative was launched by the Qatar Foundation for Education, Science, and Community Development.
Malaeb’s innovative idea, “Organ-On-Chip”, is a plastic chip that acts as a basis forcing cells to grow to form three-dimensional tissues that mimic the tissues formed in the human body.
With this innovation, this 26-year-old Lebanese won the title of the Top Innovator in the grand finale of Stars of Science Season 12.
The people’s votes and the jury’s decision helped Waddah Malaeb get the title and a $300,000 prize. Noting that his project earned 54.8 percent of the total votes.
“I am beyond humbled and grateful,” Waddah Malaeb announced after his win that he deems a life-changer for him. “Knowing that both the public and the jury members recognized the medical need for such innovation and putting their faith in me has changed my life.”