Prof. Dr. Samar Al Nahhas | Damascus University | Syria
Early Academic Pursuits
Prof. Samar Al Nahhas began her academic journey with a deep interest in Parasitology and Animal Biology, fields that would shape her career for over three decades. Her early training laid the foundation for expertise in the molecular and immunological aspects of parasitic diseases, with a strong focus on developing improved diagnostic and preventive strategies. She pursued higher education and research with dedication, eventually earning her PhD and establishing herself as a respected academic and researcher at Damascus University, Syria’s leading institution.
Professional Endeavors
Throughout her career, Prof. Al Nahhas has held prestigious academic roles, including serving as Head of the Department of Animal Biology at Damascus University (2000–2007). She has supervised and mentored numerous undergraduate, master’s, and doctoral students, shaping the next generation of scientists in parasitology and infectious diseases. Beyond teaching, she has actively contributed as a reviewer for international journals and served as an arbiter for postgraduate theses, ensuring high-quality scholarship in her field. Her collaborations with research institutions in Lebanon, Egypt, Italy, Algeria, and the UAE further highlight her role as a global academic leader.
Contributions and Research Focus
Prof. Al Nahhas has devoted her research to the epidemiology, diagnosis, and immunology of parasitic diseases. She has conducted groundbreaking studies on leishmaniasis, malaria, giardiasis, toxoplasmosis, and echinococcosis, significantly enhancing public health approaches to these conditions. Her serodiagnostic research on leishmaniasis has compared various immunological methods, leading to improved diagnostic protocols. Additionally, her molecular characterization of Giardia species and genotypic analysis of Blastocystis have advanced understanding of parasite diversity and their impact on human health. By exploring parasite-host immune interactions, her work has provided vital insights into parasite development both in vitro and in vivo.
Impact and Influence
With a citation index of 373, Prof. Al Nahhas’ contributions have made a lasting impact on the global parasitology community. Her publications in high-impact journals such as Infection, Genetics and Evolution, Acta Tropica, Parasites & Vectors, PLOS One, and Scientific Reports have established her as a leading researcher. Her findings not only strengthen scientific understanding but also directly contribute to public health policies and diagnostic strategies in regions heavily affected by parasitic infections. By combining academic rigor with practical applications, her work has influenced both scientific research and clinical practice worldwide.
Research Skills
Prof. Al Nahhas demonstrates exceptional research skills in molecular biology, immunology, microbiology, and diagnostic epidemiology. She is adept at employing microscopy, serological testing, and molecular diagnostic techniques to unravel parasite biology and disease mechanisms. Her ability to design and execute interdisciplinary projects has allowed her to contribute meaningfully to collaborative studies across multiple countries. Moreover, her experience in guiding postgraduate research underscores her strength in both independent and team-based scientific inquiry.
Awards and Honors
Prof. Al Nahhas has earned recognition for her scholarly excellence through her publications and contributions to parasitology. She has been nominated for prestigious awards such as the Best Paper Award, underscoring her international academic reputation. Her role as a reviewer for leading journals and an arbiter for master’s and PhD theses reflects the trust placed in her expertise by the global research community.
Legacy and Future Contributions
The legacy of Prof. Al Nahhas lies in her pioneering research in parasitology, her role as a mentor to future scientists, and her dedication to advancing public health in regions where parasitic diseases remain a critical challenge. Looking ahead, she is poised to continue her contributions to molecular diagnostics, innovative preventive strategies, and international collaborations. Her future work is expected to further bridge scientific research with healthcare applications, ensuring that her impact endures for gene
Publications Top Notes
Prevalence of Giardia duodenalis assemblages and sub-assemblages in symptomatic patients from Damascus city and its suburbs
Journal: Infection, Genetics and Evolution
Year: 2017
Giardia duodenalis in Damascus, Syria: Identification of Giardia genotypes in a sample of human fecal isolates using polymerase chain reaction and restriction fragment length polymorphism analyzing method
Journal: Acta Tropica
Year: 2016
Cutaneous leishmaniasis in the central provinces of Hama and Edlib in Syria: Vector identification and parasite typing
Journal: Parasites and Vectors
Year: 2015
Sarcoptes-World Molecular Network (Sarcoptes-WMN): Integrating research on scabies
Journal: International Journal of Infectious Diseases
Year: 2011
Reply from the author
Journal: Saudi Medical Journal
Year: 2009
Serodiagnosis of cutaneous leishmaniasis in the Syrian Arab Republic
Journal: Saudi Medical Journal
Year: 2009
Assessment of the direct agglutination test, fast agglutination screening test, and rK39 dipstick test for the sero-diagnosis of visceral leishmaniasis in Syria
Journal: Saudi Medical Journal
Year: 2008
Contribution study of visceral leishmaniasis in Syria
Journal: Saudi Medical Journal
Year: 2005
Visceral leishmaniasis in the Syrian Arab Republic: Early detection using rK39
Journal: Eastern Mediterranean Health Journal
Year: 2003
Conclusion