Dr. Ghada Khawaja is an Associate Professor of Molecular Biology and Immunology and Assistant Dean of the Faculty of Science at Beirut Arab University. She earned her PhD from Claude Bernard Lyon 1 University, France, investigating electroporation-mediated delivery of a therapeutic DNA vaccine against chronic hepatitis B at the Lyon Cancer Research Center. She joined BAU in 2012 and was appointed Assistant Dean in 2018. Her research focuses on cancer epigenetic therapies, autoimmune diseases, particularly rheumatoid arthritis, and natural compounds with potential antitumor, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and antimicrobial activities.

My research focuses on immune responses in infectious diseases, autoimmunity, and cancer. Areas of expertise include vaccine development, SARS-CoV-2 immunity, genetic susceptibility to rheumatoid arthritis, and molecular detection of antimicrobial resistance. I investigate natural compounds and epigenetic therapies for their potential to modulate inflammation, enhance anticancer treatment, and reduce treatment-related toxicity.

• PhD in Molecular Biology, Virology and Immunology — Claude Bernard Lyon 1 University, France (2012). • Master of Research in Structural and Functional Biochemistry — Claude Bernard Lyon 1 University, France (2008). • Master of Chemical Sciences, specializing in Biochemistry — Lebanese University, Lebanon (2007).

My teaching expertise spans undergraduate and graduate courses in cell and molecular biology, immunology, immunogenetics, genetics, human physiology, research methodologies, and cell and tissue culture techniques. I also supervise student research and lead the coordination and delivery of Work Ready Now, a university-wide course advancing professional competencies and career readiness.

Promotion to Associate Professor, Beirut Arab University — 2025. Recognition of excellence in teaching, research, and community service. Intramural Research Grant, Beirut Arab University — 2024. Doctoral Research Fellowship, Rhône-Alpes Regional Council, Infectiology, Immunology and Cancerology Cluster — October 2008.