Qatar Science Leadership Program participant draws international attention
Studies as a Research Scholar at Harvard University
Reserved to speak at the Qatar International Conference on Stem Cells Science and Policy, running from February 27 to March 1 2012 in Doha
2 February 2012, Doha, Qatar: Qatari scholar Heba Al Siddiqi, of the Qatar Science Leadership Program (QSLP), has successfully co-authored her first scientific publication in the field of stem cell research in "Nature", a leading online international scientific journal.
QSLP is part of Qatar Foundation for Education, Science and Community Development (QF), and is tasked with preparing the coming generations of talented Qatari graduates to lead scientific research. Heba's groundbreaking work exemplifies this mission.
With the support of QSLP, Heba is studying at the Department of Stem Cell and Regenerative Biology at Harvard University in the U.S. Additionally, she is gaining professional experience at the Massachusetts General Hospital (MGH), and the Center of Regenerative Medicine (CRM) in Boston, Massachusetts.
"The Qatar Science Leadership Program is a unique route for Qatari students to take upon completion of their undergraduate or graduate studies, as it is designed to fine tune their acquired skills into the talent necessary for becoming top researchers and scientists," said Dr. Ayman Bassil, Research Division's Head of Research Training and Development at QF.
"Heba's work is not only a reflection of how QSLP can benefit its participants, but demonstrates her motivation, drive, and talent for placing herself at the forefront of groundbreaking discoveries internationally," continued Dr. Ayman.
Heba's achievements have garnered the attention of the international science community, as "Nature" attracts more than six million visitors per month to its online publications. And she is in good company, as the journal also receives submissions from world-renowned scientists and researchers.
Heba will be visiting her home country later this month to deliver a speech at the "Qatar International Conference on Stem Cells Science and Policy," taking place between February 27th and March 1st, 2012 in Doha.
QF is creating research centers that represent the ideals of the Qatar National Vision 2030. As one such center, QSLP is a prestigious career pathway for bright young Qatari nationals.
To read Heba's co-authored online publication, please visit: http://www.nature.com/ncb/journal/vaop/ncurrent/full/ncb2411.html
- Ends -
Qatar Foundation - Unlocking Human Potential
Qatar Foundation for Education, Science, and Community Development is a private, non-profit organization that is supporting Qatar on its journey from carbon economy to knowledge economy by unlocking human potential for the benefit of not only Qatar, but the world. Founded in 1995 by His Highness Sheikh Hamad Bin Khalifa Al Thani, Amir of Qatar, QF is chaired by Her Highness Sheikha Moza bint Nasser.
QF carries out its mission through three strategic pillars: education, science and research, and community development. QF's education pillar brings world-class universities to Qatar to help create an education sector in which young people can develop the attitudes and skills required for a knowledge economy. Meanwhile, its science and research pillar builds Qatar's innovation and technology capacity by developing and commercializing solutions through key sciences. Finally, its community development pillar helps foster a progressive society while also enhancing cultural life, protecting Qatar's heritage and addressing immediate social needs in the community.
For a complete list of QF's initiatives and projects, visit http://www.qf.org.qa
For further information about this release please contact:
Basil Mahfouz
Tel: +974 44541730
Email: bmahfouz@qf.org.qa
Grace Wittenberg
Tel: +974 44541727
Email: gwittenberg@qf.org.qa
For more information about Qatar Foundation please contact:
Tariq Al Sada
Press Office Unit Head
Qatar Foundation
Tel: +974 4454 0991
Email: talsada@qf.org.qa
Anwar El-Shamy
Press Office Coordinator
Qatar Foundation
Tel: +974 55904407
Email: aelshamy@qf.org.qa
© Press Release 2012



















