JUST Distinguished Alumni
Political Leaders
His Excellence Prof. Mohamad Khair Abu Qdais
Prof. Mohamad Khair Abu Qdais is a Jordanian academic and former minister, born in Irbid in 1962. He holds a Ph.D. in Mechanical Engineering from the University of Minnesota (1990) and a Master’s from Jordan University of Science and Technology (1988).
He served as Minister of Education and previously as Minister of Higher Education and Scientific Research. He also held leadership roles such as President of Yarmouk University, Vice President of the Hashemite University, and President of the Arab Open University – Jordan. He was also Secretary-General of the Ministry of Higher Education.
Prof. Abu Qdais has contributed to national education policy through various councils and committees, published over 45 scientific papers, and received several academic awards.
Dr. Amer Bani Amer
Founder and General Director, Al-Hayat Center for Civil Society Development (HCCSD)
Dr. Amer Bani Amer is a political scientist and civil society leader, known for founding the Al-Hayat Center for Civil Society Development (HCCSD). Through his work, he has promoted democracy, civic engagement, and policy reform in Jordan. His initiatives focus on empowering youth, enhancing governance, and fostering political awareness.
Prof. Ayed AlReshidi
Vice President Of Performance Excellences and Quality at AlQassim Health Cluster, Al Qasim, Saudi Arabia
Prof. Ayed AlReshidi is a leader in healthcare quality management in Saudi Arabia. As Vice President of Performance Excellence and Quality at AlQassim Health Cluster, he works on enhancing patient care, implementing accreditation standards, and optimizing hospital performance. His research focuses on improving healthcare delivery models and clinical governance.
His Excellence Prof. Mohammad Taleb Obaidat
Jadara University Former President; Former Minister of Public Works and Housing in Jordan
Prof. Mohammad Taleb Obaidat is an academic and policymaker who has contributed to higher education and public infrastructure in Jordan. As the former President of Jadara University, he worked on expanding academic programs and research initiatives. As the former Minister of Public Works and Housing, he played a vital role in infrastructure projects, urban planning, and sustainable construction policies.
Prof. Nizar M.Mhaidat
Director-General of the Jordan Food and Drug Administration (JFDA)
Prof. Nizar Mhaidat leads Jordan’s Food and Drug Administration (JFDA), ensuring the safety and regulation of pharmaceuticals, food products, and medical devices. His expertise in pharmacology and regulatory affairs has contributed to improving public health policies and drug safety standards in Jordan. Under his leadership, the JFDA has strengthened its oversight mechanisms and international collaborations.
Her Excellence Prof. Suhad Jundi
The Jordanian Senate
Prof. Suhad Jundi is a distinguished academic and policymaker, currently serving as a member of the Jordanian Senate. She is involved in shaping national policies, particularly in education, healthcare, and social development. Her advocacy for women's rights and higher education reform has made a significant impact on legislative discussions in Jordan.
Her Excellence Engineer Wissam Al-Tahatamoni
Minister of Transport
Her Excellence Engineer Wesam Al-Tahtamouni has been serving as Jordan's Minister of Transport since September 26, 2023. Born on December 10, 1972, she earned both her bachelor's and master's degrees in civil engineering from Jordan University of Science and Technology in 1995 and 1998, respectively. Prior to her ministerial role, Al-Tahtamouni held several key positions within the transportation sector, including Secretary-General of the Ministry of Transport from September 2019 to September 2023, and Acting Director-General of the Land Transport Regulatory Commission between March and August 2019. Her extensive experience encompasses overseeing comprehensive transport studies, developing strategic plans, and implementing information technology solutions to enhance land transport services in Jordan.
Business Leaders
Dr. Abdul Malek Al Jaber
President of Peppers & Rogers Telecommunications Group
Abdul Malek Al Jaber is a leading figure in the telecommunications and business industries, serving as President of Peppers & Rogers Telecommunications Group. With extensive experience in entrepreneurship, he has been instrumental in digital transformation projects across the Middle East. His leadership roles in multiple companies, including Arabtech Jardaneh and Zain Group, have significantly impacted telecommunications, financial technology, and business consulting.
Salah Aloqbi
Founder and CEO of Jordan Chalk
Salah Aloqbi is an engineer and entrepreneur who established Jordan Chalk, a pioneering company that transformed Jordan into a key global supplier of eco-friendly chalk products. By leveraging Jordan’s rich limestone resources, he successfully developed a local industry with international reach. His work has helped position Jordan as a leader in the production of high-quality chalk used in educational and industrial applications.
Dr. Said Al-Hallaj
CEO of All Cell Technologies
Dr. Said Al-Hallaj is an expert in renewable energy and sustainable battery technologies, serving as CEO of All Cell Technologies. His work has focused on lithium-ion batteries and thermal management solutions, leading to innovations in green energy storage. His research at the University of Illinois at Chicago has contributed to advancements in electric vehicle battery safety and efficiency.
Award winners
Dr. Maha Al-Afeef
Maha Al-Afeef is a rising scientist in bioengineering, specializing in nanotechnology and biomedical diagnostics. She has received multiple awards for her research in biosensors, disease detection, and targeted drug delivery systems. Her innovative work in bio-nanotechnology has significant implications for early disease detection and precision medicine.
Prof. Mamoun Alhamadsheh
Professor of pharmaceutical chemistry at University of the Pacific and the scientific co-founder of Eidos Therapeutics
Prof. Mamoun Alhamadsheh is an accomplished pharmaceutical chemist specializing in drug design and development. He is a professor at the University of the Pacific and the scientific co-founder of Eidos Therapeutics. His research focuses on protein misfolding diseases, and he played a significant role in developing AG10, a groundbreaking treatment for transthyretin amyloidosis, which received FDA approval. His work has contributed to innovative drug therapies for neurodegenerative and cardiovascular diseases
Dr. Mohammed T. Ababneh
Advanced Cooling Technologies, Inc. 1046 New Holland Ave. Lancaster, PA 17601, USA
Dr. Mohammed T. Ababneh is a mechanical and aerospace engineer recognized for his work in thermal management systems for space exploration. He received a $750,000 award from NASA for developing a novel cooling system for spacecraft, which enhances the efficiency of thermal regulation in extreme environments. His research has contributed to advanced aerospace technologies and space mission sustainability.
Dr. Walid Al-Zyoud
Dr. Walid Al-Zyoud is a distinguished researcher in biosciences, recognized for his contributions to molecular biology and biotechnology. He has received prestigious awards, including the Bioscience Awards 2024, for his groundbreaking research in genetic engineering and biomedical innovations. His work has advanced scientific understanding in disease modeling, bioinformatics, and pharmacogenomics.
Prof. Yousef Khader
Distinguished Professor, Department of Public Health and Community Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, JUST.
Prof. Yousef Khader is a leading public health expert and epidemiologist at JUST, known for his contributions to disease prevention, health policy, and community health. He was honored with the King Abdullah II Award for Excellence for his impactful research in epidemiology, biostatistics, and non-communicable diseases. His work influences public health policies and international health initiatives.
Organizations leaders
Prof. Ahmad Al-Majali
Prof. Ahmad Al-Majali is a leading expert in veterinary medicine and animal health policy. As the Middle East representative for the World Organization for Animal Health, he plays a crucial role in disease control, epidemiology, and international veterinary regulations. His work focuses on zoonotic disease prevention, livestock management, and the implementation of veterinary public health programs across the region.
Dr. Almuntaser Albalawi
Researcher at United Nations Institute for Disarmament Research (UNIDIR)
Dr. Almuntaser Albalawi is a researcher at UNIDIR, focusing on disarmament, international security, and arms control. His work involves analyzing global security threats and advising policymakers on strategies to reduce arms proliferation. His research contributes to global discussions on nuclear non-proliferation, cyber threats, and military technology advancements.
Scientists and Academic Institutions Leaders
Dr. Abdel Yosef
Provost & Chief Academic Officer, Unitek Learning, USA
Dr. Abdel Yosef is a healthcare education leader specializing in curriculum development and nursing program expansion. As the Provost and Chief Academic Officer at Unitek Learning, he oversees academic affairs and oversees high-quality nursing education across multiple institutions. His work includes regulatory compliance, accreditation, and advancing simulation-based learning methodologies.
Prof. Ali Malkawi
Professor of Architectural Technology, Director of the Doctor of Design Studies Program, and Founding Director of the Harvard Center for Green Buildings and Cities
Prof. Ali Malkawi is a leading figure in sustainable architecture and building performance. As a professor at Harvard University, he has pioneered research in energy-efficient design, computational simulation, and green infrastructure. He founded the Harvard Center for Green Buildings and Cities, where he leads projects that integrate sustainability principles into urban planning and construction. His expertise has influenced global architectural strategies for carbon-neutral buildings.
Ayman Otoom
Jordanian poet and novelist
Ayman Otoom is a distinguished Jordanian poet and novelist whose works focus on themes of identity, social justice, and political struggles. He is renowned for his thought-provoking poetry and novels, including The Taste of Death, which became widely recognized in the Arab world. His literary works often highlight political oppression, human rights, and existential themes, making him one of the most influential contemporary writers in Jordan.
Prof. Feras Alali
Associate Vice President- Health Cluster - Qatar University, Qatar.
Prof. Feras Alali is a leader in pharmaceutical education and research, currently serving as Associate Vice President for the Health Cluster at Qatar University. He specializes in pharmacology, drug development, and healthcare policy, playing a crucial role in advancing pharmacy education and biomedical research in the Middle East.
Prof. Ismail Matalka
President, RAK Medical and Health Sciences University. Ras Al Khaimah, UAE.
Prof. Ismail Matalka is an accomplished medical educator and pathologist, currently serving as the President of RAK Medical and Health Sciences University. His work in pathology and medical research has led to significant improvements in medical education and healthcare training across the UAE. He has also contributed to academic policy development in the field of health sciences.
Prof. Karim El-Zu'bi
Dean, College of Pharmacy, University of Sharjah, United Arab Emirates
Prof. Karim El-Zu'bi is an expert in pharmaceutical sciences and academic leadership, currently serving as Dean of the College of Pharmacy at the University of Sharjah, UAE. His work focuses on pharmaceutical education, research in drug development, and fostering collaborations with industry leaders to enhance pharmaceutical practices.
Prof. Khalid El Salem
President of JUST
Prof. Khalid El Salem is the President of JUST, where he has played a significant role in advancing research, academic excellence, and institutional development. Under his leadership, the university has expanded its research capabilities, strengthened international partnerships, and focused on technological innovations to enhance education in Jordan.
Majdi Daibes
Majdi Daibes is a notable academic and public sector leader specializing in governance, public policy, and urban planning. With a background in infrastructure development and international relations, he has contributed to policymaking and urban development in Jordan and the wider Middle East. His work focuses on sustainable urban management, transportation systems, and environmental policies.
Prof. Mohammad Ahmad Al-Nimr
Distinguished Professor of Mechanical Engineering
Prof. Mohammad Ahmad Al-Nimr is a leading researcher in mechanical engineering with expertise in thermal sciences, fluid dynamics, and energy systems. His research focuses on sustainable energy solutions, heat transfer mechanisms, and advanced materials for engineering applications. He has received numerous accolades for his contributions to the development of innovative energy-efficient technologies.
Prof. Nezam Al-Nsair
Founding Dean, College of Nursing, Founding Dean, College of Nursing Xavier University, Cincinnati, Ohio, United States
Prof. Nezam Al-Nsair is an expert in nursing education, having served as the Founding Dean of the College of Nursing at Xavier University, USA. His leadership has shaped innovative nursing programs, integrating evidence-based practices and technology into healthcare education. With a focus on nursing workforce development and patient care improvement, his contributions have significantly influenced nursing curricula at the international level.
Prof. Omar Al Jarrah
Vice President for Planning and Development at Arab Open University, Kuwait.
Prof. Omar Al Jarrah is a recognized academic leader with extensive experience in university planning and development. As Vice President for Planning and Development at the Arab Open University in Kuwait, he has contributed to curriculum advancement, strategic growth, and academic governance, shaping the future of higher education in the region.
Prof. Osama Nusier
President of Al al-Bayt University, Mafraq, Jordan
Prof. Osama Nusier is the President of Al al-Bayt University, where he has led efforts to improve academic standards, research output, and student engagement. His leadership has played a critical role in enhancing the university's reputation and ensuring the delivery of high-quality education in Jordan.
Sa'id Foudah
Sa'id Foudah is a prominent Islamic scholar specializing in theology, logic, and philosophical studies within Islamic traditions. He is known for his extensive writings on classical Islamic thought and his contributions to contemporary Islamic discourse. His works focus on the intersection of reason and faith, addressing modern challenges in Islamic jurisprudence and philosophy.
Prof. Shadi Hamouri
Vice President for Health Sciences Faculties Affairs, Dean, Faculty of Medicine, Al-Balqa Applied University, Jordan
Prof. Shadi Hamouri is a medical educator and administrator, currently serving as Vice President for Health Sciences and Dean of the Faculty of Medicine at Al-Balqa Applied University. His expertise lies in medical curriculum development, clinical training, and student mentorship, contributing to the advancement of medical education in Jordan.
