Academic Catalog 2024–2025

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Department of Biological Sciences

Overview

The Department of Biological Sciences at LAU offers a range of undergraduate and graduate programs designed to prepare students for rewarding careers in science, healthcare, and research. Combining rigorous academics with hands-on research, students gain valuable experience in modern labs while collaborating with expert faculty on projects that tackle real-world challenges.

Rooted in LAU’s liberal arts tradition, the department emphasizes critical thinking, ethical decision-making, and social responsibility, ensuring that graduates are well-rounded and equipped to excel in their fields. With a focus on areas like genomics, microbiology, neuroscience, and environmental sciences, the department provides students with the knowledge and skills needed to pursue advanced studies, enter professional careers, or contribute to impactful research. Community engagement and interdisciplinary learning are integral to its mission, fostering graduates who are leaders, innovators, and changemakers in their fields.

Mission

The Department of Biological Sciences is committed to advancing knowledge and innovation in the biological sciences through excellence in education, research, and community engagement. We strive to educate and empower students to become lifelong learners, ethical leaders, and critical thinkers, prepared to address global challenges in health, environment, and science. Our mission is rooted in fostering interdisciplinary learning, nurturing curiosity, and inspiring discovery to improve human and planetary well-being.

Vision

The Department of Biological Sciences aspires to:

  • Become a regional and global leader in biological education and research, fostering innovation and interdisciplinary collaboration.
  • Cultivate an inclusive, dynamic, and inspiring environment where students and faculty excel academically and grow personally and professionally.
  • Develop transformative educational programs that integrate cutting-edge research, technology, and hands-on experiences to prepare students for leadership in science, health, and environmental stewardship.
  • Advance scientific knowledge through impactful research that addresses global challenges in health, biodiversity, sustainability, and the environment.
  • Foster a strong sense of civic engagement, ethical responsibility, and social justice in addressing biological and societal issues.
  • Build partnerships with academic, governmental, and industrial organizations to enhance opportunities for students and contribute meaningfully to the global scientific community.

Values

Guided by LAU’s principles, the Department of Biological Sciences values:

  • Pursuit of Knowledge and Truth: Embracing the spirit of inquiry, scientific rigor, and the ethical pursuit of discovery to contribute to a better understanding of the natural world.
  • Respect and Inclusivity: Promoting diversity, gender equity, and respect for all individuals, fostering a welcoming and collaborative environment for students, faculty, and staff.
  • Excellence in Education and Research: Striving for high standards in teaching, mentoring, and innovative research to address critical challenges in the biological sciences.
  • Interdisciplinary Collaboration: Encouraging connections across disciplines to tackle complex problems and drive innovation in science and society.
  • Accountability and Integrity: Upholding the highest ethical standards in teaching, research, and community service.
  • Community Engagement: Inspiring civic responsibility and contributions to local and global initiatives, addressing pressing societal and environmental issues.

Chairperson

  • Sleiman, Sama

Faculty and Staff

Professors

  • Daher, Costantine
  • El-Sibai, Mirvat
  • Rizk, Sandra
  • Tokajian, Sima

Associate Professors

  • Abi-Habib, Ralph
  • Khalaf, Roy
  • Khalil, Christian
  • Sleiman, Sama

Assistant Professors

  • Al Khoury, Charbel
  • Ibrahim, Jose-Noel
  • Kobeissy, Philippe Hussein
  • Rima, Mohamad

Lecturers

  • Fakhoury, Mark
  • Kerek, Racha
  • Mehanna, Stephanie

Staff

  • Bou Farah, Helena, Principal Lab Supervisor Biology, Byblos
  • Jabi, Sawsan, Principal Lab Supervisor Biology, Beirut
  • Naccash, Hanan, Principle Academic Assistant, Beirut
  • Nassour, Elie, Graduate Biology Lab Supervisor, Byblos
  • Tawk, Leila, Graduate Biology Lab Supervisor, Beirut
  • Ziade, Lara, Lead Academic Assistant, Byblos

Contact Information

Beirut campus:

  • Phone number: Extension 1114
  • Address: Sage Hall 310

Byblos campus:

  • Phone number: Extension: 2872
  • Office: Block A, Room 821

Website

Degrees and Minors Offered

Courses Offered