Al-Quds Graduates Shine with Research Publication on Rare Genetic Disease

Four female medical graduates of Al-Quds University in Jerusalem have conducted research on a rare genetic disease and published their findings in the European Journal of Case Reports in Internal Medicine, the official journal of the European Federation of Internal Medicine, on December 4, 2025. Their research on the rare Vascular Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome, one of the most severe heritable connective tissue disorders, analyzed three clinical cases, highlighting challenges of early diagnosis and difficulties in medical intervention.1 Through the case studies, they examined ways to reduce “catastrophic complications” and improve treatment and follow-up. They found that long-term surveillance is critical, but even with it, “outcomes remain poor.”2 They conclude: “These cases underscore both the progress made and the unmet need for novel therapeutic options to improve outcomes in this high-risk population.”3

The four authors are Tala Sulaiman, Adriana Skafi, Razan Fiala, and Lara Alayasa.

This notable achievement was made possible through the graduates’ determination to take full advantage of every opportunity, and the university’s commitment to a research-driven environment.

Razan Fiala, one of the four alumni, revealed to Jerusalem Story that she and her peers were seeking growth opportunities during their summer vacation when they found a month-long medical training program at the Spedali Civili di Brescia Hospital in Italy through an elective course at Al-Quds.

During their training, which was under the supervision of Dr. Giacomo Buso, the students had a shared goal in mind: leave here with a research opportunity. And that’s exactly what they did.4

The students secured a partnership with a resident doctor who provided them with data and materials to conduct their unique research, and then an opportunity to present at a conference for the European Society of Vascular Medicine.

Of the publication that resulted, Buso wrote on his LinkedIn page, “Some papers matter more than others. This one does. Not only because it deals with the complex and fragile management of vascular Ehlers Danlos Syndrome (vEDS), but because of the people behind it . . . Working with these young colleagues means investing in the future of medicine, even, and especially, in difficult clinical contexts.”5

Razan shared that her passion for science began from a young age—she always excelled in it at school—but she asserted that Al-Quds University’s curriculum instilled in her the importance of scientific research, and that her professors empowered her to pursue her passions.

In a similar vein, Imad Abu Kishek, Al-Quds University president from 2014 to 2025, described the university’s philosophy for centering scientific research since its inception: “If our academics remain conventional—if our education doesn’t advance in agility, and our education outcomes do not meet market developments—they will resemble dinosaurs in that they will vanish. We can only keep up with technological advancements and market demands if we redefine the concept of education.”6

Al-Quds University implements this vision by prioritizing analysis, evaluation, and creativity as institutional outcomes of its educational programs. Imad told Jerusalem Story that 40 percent of all research production at the university is conducted by students—an outstanding achievement in the region.

The university has several arrangements with educational institutions across five continents as well as dedicated funds and programs to support students’ endeavors, even postgraduation, to ensure that they have diverse, globally engaged avenues in research and medicine. The university emphasizes knowledge exchange with various societies and exposure to new research approaches and methods where students learn to think comparatively, “because unique research is comparative research” that responds to and engages with others, Imad added.

This is reflected in the four students’ passion for research, which produced a significant achievement that contributed to international scientific platforms.

“My studies at Al-Quds University reinforced my belief in why research is important. [Education should] not just be academics in the classroom; it can also take shape by diving into a rare genetic disease to contribute to science,” Razan said. She spoke with an enthusiastic, matter-of-fact tone on how she practices her beliefs. “I find myself sharing pieces of knowledge with my friends, my family, and anyone around me. If you hold knowledge, do not monopolize it. Build upon it and seek out opportunities to spread it to as many people as possible,” she told Jerusalem Story.

The group of all-female doctors is a testament to Palestinian women’s local and global role in research, science, and academia. The student body of Al-Quds University is notably 56 to 60 percent female, and their academic achievements at the levels of master’s and PhD are twice as high as those of their male peers, a statistic that corresponds with global patterns and on which Al-Quds prides itself.

Razan shared that her achievement was uplifted with intense support from her university, family, and community, which propels her to continue on this path. On her LinkedIn page, she wrote: “This publication is just the beginning—more research, more learning, and more contributions are on the way.”7