
Professor Habiba Al Safar
Dean, College of Medicine and Health Sciences

Dear Members of the College of Medicine and Health Sciences Community,
It is with great pleasure that I extend a warm welcome to you on behalf of the College of Medicine and Health Sciences at Khalifa University.
I am delighted to share with you the exciting developments and future trajectory of our esteemed College. We are undergoing a transformative journey that involves a strategic shift in our academic programs, reflecting our commitment to staying at the forefront of healthcare education and research.
I am privileged to announce an exciting expansion of our College, marked by the establishment of four distinct departments. These departments represent a commitment to excellence in education, research, and innovation across a spectrum of disciplines—from the advancement of biological sciences to groundbreaking innovations at the intersection of bioengineering and biotechnology, dedicated efforts in epidemiology and public health, and specialized education in medical science.
Aligned with our vision for the future of healthcare and medicine, these focused departments will not only pave the way for groundbreaking advancements but will also introduce advanced degree programs. As a significant enhancement, I am pleased to announce the introduction of Masters and Ph.D. programs, offering students opportunities for in-depth research, specialization, and advanced training.
As we embark on this exciting journey, your enthusiasm, expertise, and dedication are integral to our success. We look forward to your active engagement as we work together to make a lasting impact on the field of health and life sciences.
Thank you for being a crucial part of the College of Medicine and Health Sciences at Khalifa University. I encourage you to explore the unique programs we offer and discover how we can support you in achieving your academic and professional aspirations.


At the College of Medicine and Health Sciences at Khalifa University, our overarching vision is to be a global leader in transformative education, innovative research, and healthcare excellence. We envision a dynamic academic community that inspires a lifelong passion for learning, producing healthcare professionals known for their exceptional skills, compassion, and commitment to advancing healthcare on both local and global fronts.
Our commitment to cutting-edge research and interdisciplinary collaboration positions us at the forefront of medical and health sciences. We aspire to shape the future of medicine, address the evolving needs of diverse communities, and contribute significantly to healthcare advancements. Beyond traditional education, we foster a culture of innovation, resilience, and social responsibility, striving to build a healthier and more equitable world.
Grounded in a commitment to excellence, integrity, and the continuous pursuit of knowledge, our vision positions the College of Medicine and Health Sciences at Khalifa University as a beacon of innovation, a hub for transformative education, and a driving force behind the advancement of healthcare for generations to come
To cultivate a transformative learning ecosystem that seamlessly integrates academic excellence, fosters cutting-edge research and innovations in healthcare, develops exceptionally skilled healthcare professionals, and plays an active role in enhancing the health and the well-being of our local and global communities.
The college aims to accomplish its mission through commitment to the following core values:
These core values guide our actions, decisions, and interactions, shaping the character of the College of Medicine and Health Sciences at Khalifa University.
The CMHS Research Office is an important part of the College of Medicine and Health Science (CMHS) at Khalifa University. CMHS Research Office plays a significant role to promote activities related to research. The CMHS Research Office encourages research within our faculty, and external research collaborations around the globe, and excellent funds that KU offers to promote research. The CMHS college has employed top talented researchers from across
the globe consolidating itself as a reference College at a scientific level. This provides to have prestigious companies and renowned hospitals as stakeholders promoting clinical research. The College has signed agreements with all the major healthcare providers in Abu Dhabi (Burjeel, NMC, Mediclinic, Mubadala Health, Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi and PureHealth) and collaborates extensively with government healthcare entities such as Abu Dhabi Public Health Centre, SEHA, Early Childhood Authority and the Department of Health. This fact significantly contributes to the expansion of our research initiatives and facilitates opportunities for our students to set up collaborations with top-tier researchers. Our research focus is in addressing national priorities.
Healthy Longevity:
According to the government research strategies, our research focus strategy is in aging. It is necessary to understand the process, changes, and factors that impact and affect in our life cycle and aging related diseases in the human being. The aim of this field is to delay the aging factor and minimize or reduce diseases age related.
Infectious diseases:
Infectious disease, being a global problem in public health, refer to the study of diseases caused by pathogens such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, and parasites. Researchers in this field work to better understand the causes, transmission, prevention, treatment, and control of infectious diseases.
Precision medicine:
focuses on tailoring medical treatment and healthcare interventions to individual characteristics of patients. Seeks to increase the quality of health care by individualizing the health-care process.
These characteristics can include a person's genetic makeup, molecular profiles, environmental factors, lifestyle, and even their microbiome. The goals of precision medicine are targeted therapies, early disease detection, risk assessment, personalized treatment, preventive strategies, and improved diagnosis.
Digital health
(data science, medical artificial intelligence). Applying digital health technologies to healthcare. Medical research uses the emerging AI technologies and the massive data analysis. These technologies help the doctors to have a holistic view of patient health and helping in decision making following the ethical regulations.
Drug discovery and therapeutics:
Drug discovery is the process through which potential new medicines are identified. It involves a wide range of scientific disciplines, including biology, chemistry, and pharmacology. We are delighted to have such interdisciplinary research in our college fostering collaboration and innovation in this field.
Public and Environmental health:
The Public Health and Epidemiology Department at CMHS serves as the foundation for public health research within the college. Our research encompasses both quantitative and qualitative data from primary and secondary sources, aiming to improve the health and well-being of all populations.
What are our equipment capabilities?
To be able to develop the research and to comply with the research strategies, our campus boasts excellent facilities from which research activities can be conducted. There is available the pharmacology, Physiology and Immunology, Histology/anatomy, Molecular Biology, Genetics, and imaging labs. These labs are fully equipped, and they are accessible to all CMHS faculty and KU scientists.
On November 13th and 14th, 2023, The Center for Biotechnology and College of Medicine and Health Science hosted the insightful Healthy Aging and Precision Medicine Symposium. Distinguished speakers covered key topics such as Promoting Healthy Aging, Genomics Precision Medicine, AI in Aging Research, and Social Health Policies, providing valuable insights for a better future.
Video of the conference:
Next 21st-22nd November 2024 we will be hosting the II Healthy Longevity Conference to explore recent breakthroughs in the mechanisms of healthy aging, genomic precision medicine and precision prevention, advanced technologies for healthy aging, and social health policies. Special sessions will be featured during the conference, hosting distinguished plenary speakers who will address a spectrum of critical topics related to Healthy Aging.
Webpage link:
On 24-25 May 2024, Khalifa University hosted the 3rd UAE Anatomy and Cellular Biology Conference. This conference is the third instalment of the annual meeting of anatomists within the MENA region. For the last 2 years, the UAE has hosted similar anatomy conferences to inspire educators, researchers, and students to explore the latest research, expand their knowledge and skills, create valuable relationships, and discover advances in anatomy and future directions. This conference invites anatomists, human biologists, and health professionals from all clinical fields to improve their knowledge and stay up to date with the developments in their respective fields. Distinguished guest speakers showcased their researchers.
Webpage link:
The College of Medicine and Health Science organizes a regular event titled "Networking" inviting the other KU colleges and collaborating with external stakeholder to join CMHS faculty and research staff. The aim of these meetings is to foster research collaborations and promote collaboration among colleagues.


Every two weeks, the CMHS Research Office organizes our CMHS Research Seminar series. These seminars serve as a platform to showcase our faculty's research and to build a sense of community within the college. They create a space for researchers to interact, exchange ideas, and foster collaborations. The CMHS Research Office has had the honour of hosting top international researchers as speakers, in addition to our esteemed faculty.
Dr. Christian Sina- University of Luebeck.Germany
Dr.Giovanna Jona Lasinio, "Sapienza" Università di Roma. Italy
Dr. Ayman Al-Hendy, University of Chicago. USA
"Introducing Khalifa University’s Industry-Integrated Co-op Program"
Connect classroom knowledge with real-world industry experience. Prepare for your future today!
About the Program (Quick Intro):
Khalifa University is proud to introduce its pilot Co-op Program, designed to provide our students with practical industry experience integrated into their academic journey. The program is launched in Fall 2025, with the first work-term scheduled for Summer 2026, aiming to prepare students to meet the demands of the evolving engineering and science sectors in the UAE and beyond.
Why Choose KU Co-op? (Highlights)
Introduction & Vision
The KU Co-op Program aims to integrate practical work experience into our students’ academic careers, fostering early industry engagement and skills development. Starting in 2025-26, students will participate in two paid work-terms of 26 weeks each, with opportunities to work locally and internationally, all aligned with their discipline.
| Year 1 | Year 2 | Year 3 | Year 4 | Year 5 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
|
Fall 2023 Study |
Fall 2024 Study |
Fall 2025 Study |
Fall 2026 CO-OP Term 1 |
Fall 2027 Study |
|
Spring 2024 Study |
Spring 2025 Study |
Spring 2026 Study |
Spring 2027 Study |
Spring 2028 CO-OP Term 2 |
|
Summer 2024 Study |
Summer 2025 Study |
Summer 2026 CO-OP Term 1 |
Summer 2027 Study |
Summer 2028 CO-OP Term 2 |
Co-op vs Internship
|
Feature |
Traditional Internship |
KU Co-op Program |
|---|---|---|
|
Paid experience |
No |
Yes |
|
Full recruitment cycle |
Yes |
Yes |
|
Embedded within curriculum |
No |
Yes |
|
Multiple work terms |
Usually, one summer |
Two terms (optional) |
|
Long-term industry relationships |
No |
Yes, built-in |
List of majors hyperlinked
Applicants must have a minimum CGPA of 3.25, have completed at least 75 credits to apply, and 90 credits to begin their work term. Additionally, candidates must complete the career preparation course and pass an interview process. This ensures that only motivated and qualified students participate, giving them the best chance for success in both their academic and professional development.
KU Programs Participating in the Co-op Program
College of Engineering and Physical Sciences:
College of Computing and Mathematical Sciences
College of Medicine and Health Sciences
Why Participate?
Eligibility & Timeline
Application Steps

Khalifa University collaborates with both private and government sectors to advance innovative research and deliver practical solutions. These strategic partnerships offer students valuable real-world experience and industry insights, fostering a strong connection between academia and industry. Together, they support technological progress and sustainable development, contributing to the achievement of national and global goals.
Why KU students?
Khalifa University students are driven, innovative, and committed to excellence. They are passionate explorers of knowledge, dedicated to advancing technology and research that make a positive impact on society. With a strong foundation in STEM disciplines, they showcase exceptional problem-solving skills, teamwork, and leadership qualities. These students embody the spirit of innovation and are prepared to excel in the ever-evolving global landscape, making Khalifa University proud of their achievements and their bright futures. Khalifa University's Co-op program is designed to ensure that participants are well prepared and ready for the experience.
Why Partner with KU?
How to Get Involved?
There are no fees, and you can post unlimited jobs. Our team will support you throughout the entire process, including employer sessions, crafting job descriptions, interviewing, candidate selection, and using our online platform.
