Jordanian innovator dedicates win in Stars of Science to cancer victims

The winner of Qatar Foundation (QF)’s 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 in treatment.Medical researcher Sadeem Qdaisat was named the Arab world’s top innovator in the finale of Stars of Science on MBC4 on Saturday night. Sadeem said he was “hugely grateful” for the level of support he received from QF throughout the programme, and in particular from specialists at Sidra Medical and Research Center and Hamad Medical Corporation.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% in a combined jury and public vote, and a prize of $300,000 in seed funding. “This means we’re ready to help cancer patients, ease their pain and provide them with better results,” said the 28-year-old PhD candidate from Jordan. “I’m 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.”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 particularly grateful to HE Sheikha Hind bint Hamad al-Thani, vice-chairperson and CEO of 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’re prepared to go that extra mile to ensure they achieve this. You just don’t see that anywhere else.” The young entrepreneur said he had always wanted ‘GenomiQ’ to be an Arab invention, supported by companies and institutions in the Middle East. “My ambition now is to build five devices and get them into hospitals in the Middle East, Europe and the US. I’ve been approached by a lot of companies, and the affiliation with Qatar Foundation has opened many doors for me.” 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.”With over 8.5mn views on YouTube, Facebook and Instagram this season, Stars of Science broke records for digital engagement, according to a press statement. Four million unique users have interacted with the show’s online channels this year.In the finale, Algerian Abderrahim Bourouis, inventor of the smart autism shirt, Wonderkit, came in second place with a score of 31.7%, earning $150,000. Sevag Babikian earned 23.3% to come in third with his efficient desktop 3D printer, Modifix. With his auto scoring and management in taekwondo system, Take One, Ghassan Yusuf from Bahrain came in fourth place with a score of 8.2%. Sevag won $100,000 while Ghassan was awarded $50,000.Innovators interested in entering Stars of Science Season 9 still have time, with online applications closing on December 1.