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Tribune News Network
Doha
The winner of Qatar Foundation's (QF) Stars of Science (SoS) TV show has dedicated his victory in season eight of the programme to all the lives that have been lost to cancer and to those currently under treatment.
Medical researcher Sadeem Qdaisat was named the Arab world's top innovator in the thrilling finale of Stars of Science on MBC4 on Saturday.
Sadeem expressed his gratitude to QF for the level of support he received throughout the programme, and in particular from specialists at Sidra Medical and Research Center (Sidra) and Hamad Medical Corporation (HMC).
Sadeem's winning innovation, 'GenomiQ', which aims to eliminate human error and significantly cut down on the time needed to test genetic samples through an automated process, earned him a winning score of 36.8 percent in a combined jury and public vote, and a prize of $300,000 in seed funding.
"This means we are ready to help cancer patients to ease their pain and to provide them with better results. I am dedicating this win to all the lives that have been lost to cancer and I promise to continue to fight for everyone still in treatment and with diagnoses," said the 28-year-old PhD candidate from Jordan.
Since 2009, Stars of Science has served as a platform for young people across the Arab region and beyond to solve regional problems, supported by the resources of QF's Qatar Science & Technology Park (QTSP) and many other prominent institutions within Qatar.
Sadeem, who first presented his automated genetic testing idea in SOS season six, said:"Qatar came up time-and-again as a go-to destination for innovation support when I began looking for mentoring and backing."
The young scientist said he has been hugely impressed by the 'can do' attitude at QF and said he feels grateful to Her Excellency Sheikha Hind bint Hamad al Thani, vice-chairperson and CEO, QF, whom he met with other SOS finalists and alumni in the run up to the show's finale.
"You can tell, from the very senior figures at QF right through the organisation, that their sole purpose is to help communities and that they are prepared to go that extra mile to ensure they achieve this. You just don't see that anywhere else," he said.
The young entrepreneur said he had always wanted 'GenomiQ' to be an Arab invention, supported by companies and institutions in the Middle East.
He said,"My ambition now is to build five devices and get them into hospitals in the Middle East, Europe and the US. I have been approached by a lot of companies and the affiliation with Qatar Foundation has opened many doors for me. Developing a prototype like this is about connecting with people who believe in the idea, and QF has helped enormously in this area."
Following his win, Sadeem sent a message of encouragement to all young people watching:"You are the future of our region and our world. Have confidence in your abilities, don't be afraid to take the road less travelled, believe in the power of education and seize any opportunity you have to make your dream a reality."
Innovators interested in entering Stars of Science Season 9 still have time, with online applications closing on December 1. Aspiring candidates from around the region are encouraged to apply via the official Stars of Science website: www.starsofscience.com.
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22/11/2016
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