International Conference on
Infectious Diseases in
Conflict Settings 2026
Interconnected Risks and Responses
Organized By
About the Conference
Infectious Diseases in Conflict Settings
The International Conference on Infectious Diseases in Conflict Settings will gather researchers, policymakers, humanitarian practitioners, and public health professionals to examine infectious disease risks in conflict-affected and humanitarian environments.
The focused audience of 150–300 attendees — international experts, policymakers, humanitarian leaders, and academics — ensures high-level networking and meaningful collaboration.
Learn More About ICID →Conference Highlights
- Six scientific thematic tracks with 36 focus areas
- Four cross-cutting interdisciplinary themes
- 3-day Winter One Health School (28–31 Oct, 7 courses)
- AI in Health AMR Challenge — $8,000 prize
- Advanced Medical Technology Hub (Holography, VR, 3D Printing, AI)
- Full simultaneous translation (Arabic–English)
- 150–300 key international stakeholders
Scientific Program
6 Thematic Tracks
Global Health Security, Surveillance & Early Warning
Disease surveillance, epidemic intelligence, digital health tools
Outbreak Preparedness, Emergency Response & IPC
Emergency preparedness, field epidemiology, IPC in conflict
Vaccination, Immunization & AMR Control
Immunization strategies, vaccine equity, antimicrobial stewardship
Zoonotic & Emerging Diseases (One Health)
One Health frameworks, environmental drivers, climate risks
Vulnerable Populations: Refugees, IDPs & Children
Refugees, IDPs, children — maternal health, mental health, nutrition
Community Resilience & Health Justice
Social resilience, health governance, hygiene & sanitation
Join the Global Conversation
Be part of shaping the future of infectious disease response in conflict-affected communities.
About the Conference
Interconnected Risks and Responses
Protecting health in conflict settings demands resilient systems, collaboration, and science-driven action
The International Conference on Infectious Diseases in Conflict Settings, hosted by Birzeit University, will gather researchers, policymakers, humanitarian practitioners, and public health professionals to examine infectious disease risks in conflict-affected and humanitarian environments.
The conference will feature scientific sessions addressing disease surveillance and early warning, outbreak preparedness and infection prevention, vaccination strategies, antimicrobial resistance, environmental and zoonotic disease drivers, and health risks affecting displaced and vulnerable populations.
This conference serves a dual purpose:
1. To advance global dialogue and scientific collaboration on infectious diseases and One Health in humanitarian and conflict settings.
2. To catalyze transdisciplinary partnerships that translate research into policy, preparedness, and action in fragile contexts.
Conference Vision & Mission
- Conference Vision: To position Birzeit University as a regional and global platform advancing equitable and resilient responses to infectious diseases in conflict and displacement settings.
- Global Dialogue: Bringing together experts, policymakers, humanitarian actors, researchers, and innovators to exchange knowledge and strengthen coordinated responses.
- Knowledge to Action: Translating lessons from humanitarian crises into practical and scalable strategies that improve preparedness and health system resilience.
- Strengthening Systems: Promoting surveillance, preparedness, vaccination, AMR control, and community resilience.
- Exclusive event for 150–300 key stakeholders
- 26–27 October 2026 · hybrid event (onsite and online)
- Nasseb Azeez Shaheen Auditorium, Birzeit University
- Full simultaneous translation (Arabic–English)
Scientific Program
Thematic Tracks
Six research tracks addressing the most pressing challenges at the intersection of infectious disease and conflict
Track 1: Global Health Security & Surveillance
Real-time surveillance systems, cross-border early warning networks, and rapid response coordination for disease outbreaks in conflict-affected regions.
Track 2: Outbreak Preparedness, Emergency Response & IPC in Conflict
Infection prevention and control strategies, emergency preparedness protocols, field laboratory deployment, and rapid diagnostic technologies.
Track 3: Vaccination, Immunization & AMR
Cold chain innovation, vaccine equity in crisis zones, antimicrobial resistance surveillance, and antibiotic stewardship programs.
Track 4: Zoonotic & Emerging Diseases (One Health)
Animal-human-environment disease interface, spillover risk assessment, vector-borne diseases, and integrated One Health approaches.
Track 5: Health of Displaced & Crisis-Affected Populations
Maternal, neonatal & child health · Nutrition & food insecurity · Mental health & psychosocial support · Gender-based vulnerabilities · Chronic diseases in refugee settings · Health equity & social determinants
Track 6: Community Resilience & Health Justice
Social resilience, health in peace-building, primary health care workforce, political determinants, hygiene, and food systems.
Cross-cutting
Biomedical & Clinical Sciences
Cross-cutting
Digital Health, AI & Data Resilience
Cross-cutting
Climate & Environmental Determinants
Cross-cutting
Equity, Gender & System Resilience
Innovation Showcase
Advanced Medical Technology Hub
The lobby will be transformed into a dynamic technology showcase demonstrating the university's commitment to innovation
Holography
Keynote via live 3D holographic projection
Virtual Reality
Immersive surgical training & field hospital tours
3D Printing
Live lab creating anatomical models
AI in Diagnostics
ML algorithms for medical imaging & outbreak prediction
Competition
AI in Health AMR Challenge
The conference will host a competition focused on developing intervention models to mitigate Antimicrobial Resistance, including chemical, biological, mechanical, digital, and AI-based approaches.
$8,000 USD
Prize awarded to the winning team
Highlighting the new department's focus on cutting-edge, applied research
Questions about the AMR Challenge? Write to
Featured Faculty
Keynotes & Guests
Keynote and framing speakers, plus the officials opening the conference. Each session’s chairs and presenters are listed in the agenda.
The keynote speakers and guests are listed in the conference agenda.
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Meet the Team
Organizing Committee
The distinguished professionals leading ICID 2026
AllConference ChairOrganizing CommitteeScientific Committee
Conference Chair
Dr. Said Abukhattab Al-Barghouthi
MPH | PhD in Epidemiology
Infectious Diseases and One Health Group, Institute of Community and Public Health (ICPH), Birzeit University
Dr. Said is an epidemiologist with expertise in antimicrobial resistance (AMR), infectious diseases, and public health in conflict-affected and resource-constrained settings. His doctoral research at the Faculty of Medicine, University of Basel focused on AMR and epidemic preparedness using a One Health approach to examine how structural and environmental factors influence the emergence and spread of resistance. Dr. Said has led interdisciplinary projects on AMR, infectious disease control, and pandemic preparedness, including a national initiative on implementing the One Health approach to strengthen surveillance systems. His work focuses on linking research to practice through integrated surveillance, community engagement, and policy-oriented research aimed at strengthening resilient and equitable health systems.
Organizing Committee
Prof. Jakob Zinsstag
Professor of Epidemiology; One Health Pioneer
University of Basel & Swiss TPH, Switzerland
Prof. Jakob Zinsstag is Professor of Epidemiology at the University of Basel, Deputy Head of the Department of Epidemiology and Public Health, and Head of the One Health Unit at the Swiss Tropical and Public Health Institute (Swiss TPH). An internationally recognized pioneer of the One Health approach, his research has advanced the integration of human, animal, and environmental health to address global health challenges. He serves as a member of the WHO–FAO–WOAH–UNEP One Health High-Level Expert Panel (OHHLEP) and is Editor-in-Chief of CABI One Health. He has led major international research on zoonotic diseases, antimicrobial resistance, and transdisciplinary health, authored the landmark textbook “One Health: The Theory and Practice of Integrated Health Approaches,” and co-authored The Lancet One Health Commission.
Prof. Niveen Abu-Rmeileh
Professor of Public Health and Epidemiology
Qatar & Birzeit University | President, Global Implementation Society
Niveen M.E. Abu-Rmeileh is Professor of Public Health and Epidemiology at Qatar & Birzeit University and President of the Global Implementation Society. Her work advances implementation research, statistical epidemiology, evidence synthesis, and health systems strengthening in fragile settings, with expertise in quantitative methods, systematic reviews, and translating research into policy and practice.
Dr. Maysaa Nemer
PhD, MPhil
Head of Environmental and Occupational Health Unit, ICPH, Birzeit University
Dr. Maysaa Nemer is an Associate Professor of Public Health at the Institute of Community and Public Health (ICPH), Birzeit University. She is a public health researcher and educator with extensive experience in academic leadership, interdisciplinary teaching, and applied research addressing major public health challenges in Palestine and the broader region. Her research focuses on environmental and occupational health, climate change and health, epidemiology, health systems resilience, and health equity in fragile and conflict-affected settings.
Dr. Rabee Salah Asaad Adwan
Pediatric Infectious Diseases Consultant
Al-Makassed Hospital, Jerusalem & Istishari Arab Hospital, Ramallah
Dr. Rabee Salah Asaad Adwan is a Palestinian Pediatric Infectious Diseases Consultant and Infection Control specialist. He completed his fellowship training at the University of Toronto and The Hospital for Sick Children (SickKids), Canada. Dr. Adwan is actively involved in antimicrobial stewardship, infection prevention, and clinical research, with numerous peer-reviewed publications. He also serves as a Pediatric Assistant Professor at Al-Quds University.
Dr. Raed J. Amro
MD, MPH
UNRWA, West Bank
Dr. Raed J. Amro is a public health professional serving as Chief of Health Program with UNRWA in the West Bank. With more than 19 years of experience, he has led initiatives in primary care, disease prevention, and health system strengthening. He holds an MD and a Master's degree in Community and Public Health, and plays an active role in national technical committees.
Chiara Carrara
PhD Candidate, Epidemiology & Public Health
Swiss Tropical and Public Health Institute, University of Basel, Switzerland
Chiara Carrara is a PhD candidate in Epidemiology and Public Health at the Swiss Tropical and Public Health Institute and the University of Basel. Her research focuses on identifying the socio-ecological and political determinants of antimicrobial resistance in refugee camps in Palestine.
Scientific Committee
Prof. Karl Blanchet
Professor of Humanitarian Public Health
University of Geneva, Switzerland
Professor Karl Blanchet is Professor in Humanitarian Public Health at the Faculty of Medicine, University of Geneva, and Director of the Geneva Centre of Humanitarian Studies. His research focuses on public health, migration, system resilience, and health systems in global health, specifically in post-conflict and conflict-affected countries. He has developed innovative research approaches based on complexity science and systems thinking, focusing on women, adolescents, and child health in humanitarian settings, and has contributed to developing priority packages of essential health services for countries such as Afghanistan. He is co-Chair of the CHH–Lancet Commission on Health, Conflict and Forced Displacement and co-Chair of Lancet Migration Europe.
Dr. Julianne Meisner
Veterinarian & Epidemiologist
University of Washington, USA
Julianne Meisner is a veterinarian and epidemiologist and the director of the Center for One Health Research at the University of Washington. Her research and teaching focus on pastoralist health, epidemiologic methods for One Health, and suitable theory for more-than-biomedical approaches to One Health. In particular, her work applies causal inference methods, spatial and mechanistic models, and network analyses to characterize the influence of political and social forces on health at the human–animal–environment nexus.
Dr. Shaun Morris
Professor of Pediatrics; Clinician-Scientist, Infectious Diseases
The Hospital for Sick Children (SickKids) & University of Toronto, Canada
Shaun Morris is a Clinician-Scientist in the Division of Infectious Diseases, a Senior Scientist in Child Health Evaluative Sciences, and Co-Director of the Centre for Global Child Health at The Hospital for Sick Children (SickKids). He is a Professor of Pediatrics, cross-appointed to the Division of Clinical Public Health at the Dalla Lana School of Public Health, University of Toronto. His research focuses on reducing newborn mortality and morbidity from sepsis, establishing burden and risk factors for severe infections, immunization, the epidemiology of vaccine-preventable diseases, pandemic preparedness, and biomarkers for diagnosis and prognosis of infectious diseases. He has led randomized trials and studies in Pakistan, Bangladesh, Kenya, and Thailand, and chairs the Paediatric Investigators Collaborative Network on Infections in Canada (PICNIC).
Prof. Susu Zughaier
Acting Professor of Microbiology
Qatar University College of Medicine, Qatar
Dr. Susu Zughaier is an Acting Professor of Microbiology at Qatar University College of Medicine, Head of Basic Research, and the Infectious Diseases Research Network Chair at QU Health. She obtained her MSc and PhD in Microbiology and Immunology from Cardiff University, UK, with postdoctoral training at Harvard Medical School in Boston, USA, and served as Assistant Professor of Microbiology and Immunology at Emory University School of Medicine in Atlanta, USA. Her research interests are focused on host–pathogen interactions, vaccine development, AMR, and AI in medicine.
Dr. Yousef Khader
Distinguished Professor of Epidemiology, Biostatistics & Medical Education
Eastern Mediterranean Public Health Network, Jordan
Dr. Yousef Khader is a Distinguished Professor of Epidemiology, Biostatistics, and Medical Education, and the Director of the Center of Excellence for Applied Epidemiology at the Eastern Mediterranean Public Health Network. He holds master's degrees in Public Health (Tulane University), Epidemiology (Jordan University of Science and Technology), and Medical Education (Maastricht University), as well as a doctoral degree in Biostatistics from Tulane University.
Prof. Abdelraouf Elmanama
Professor of Microbiology
Islamic University of Gaza, Palestine
Prof. Abdelraouf A. Elmanama holds a PhD in Microbiology, an MSc in Microbiology, and a BSc in Medical Technology. He is a Professor of general, diagnostic, and advanced microbiology in the Medical Technology Department at the Islamic University of Gaza, and has been a part-time lecturer of Medical Microbiology at Al-Azhar College of Medicine and IUG. He has served as Vice President for Research and Graduate Studies, Dean of Quality and Development, Dean of the Faculty of Health Sciences, and Dean of Admission and Registration. His main research interests include antibiotic resistance and infectious diseases, with over 100 publications. He has launched and organized AMR awareness campaigns and events for more than 15 years and is a member of the National Infectious Diseases Committee.
Dr. Nadirah S. Damseh
Consultant Clinical & Biochemical Geneticist
Al-Quds University, Palestine
Dr. Nadirah S. Damseh is a Consultant Clinical Geneticist and Clinical Biochemical Geneticist. Her work focuses on rare genetic and metabolic disorders, genomic diagnostics, and rare disease research.
Dr. Laurent Goetschel
Professor of Political Science; Director of swisspeace
University of Basel, Switzerland
Laurent Goetschel is director of swisspeace and professor of political science at the University of Basel. He studied international relations and political science at the Graduate Institute of International and Development Studies and at the University of Geneva, where he obtained his PhD in 1993. He conducted research and lectured at the Universities of Lausanne and Bern, and was a visiting scholar at the Centre for European Studies (Harvard University) and the Centre for International Conflict Resolution (Columbia University), as well as a senior fellow at the European Institute of Peace in Brussels. He directed a Swiss National Science Foundation research program on Swiss foreign policy (1997–2000) and a research module on governance and conflict of the North-South National Centre of Competence in Research (2001–2013). Outside academia, he worked as a journalist with the Associated Press (1989–1991) and served as political advisor to Swiss Minister for Foreign Affairs Micheline Calmy-Rey (2003–2004).
Prof. Elham Kateeb
Professor of Dental Public Health
Al-Quds University, Palestine
Prof. Elham Kateeb is Professor of Dental Public Health and Dean of Scientific Research at Al-Quds University, Palestine. She is a Diplomate of the American Board of Dental Public Health, a health services researcher, and an advocate of global oral health. She served as Chair of the Public Health Committee of the World Dental Federation (FDI) from 2021–2024 and was elected an FDI Councilor in 2024. She is the founding President of the International Association of Dental Research (IADR) Palestine Section, Co-Chair of the Sustainable Health Equity Movement (SHEM), and Co-Chair of the Palestine Chapter of the Organization for Women in Science (OWSD). She also holds appointments as Adjunct Faculty at Temple University and Research Affiliate at the University of Iowa. In 2024, she was inducted as a Fellow of the International College of Dentists in recognition of her contributions to dental public health, research, and service to vulnerable populations.
Dr. Heba Mahrous
Veterinary Epidemiologist, PhD Microbiology
WHO Regional Office for the Eastern Mediterranean, Egypt
Dr. Heba Mahrous is a veterinary epidemiologist holding a PhD in Microbiology. She has 20 years of national and international experience in One Health and zoonotic diseases surveillance and response, including 15 years working for global organizations.
Dr. Mahmoud A. Srour
Associate Professor, Molecular Biology & Experimental Hematology
Birzeit University, Palestine
Dr. Srour is an Associate Professor at Birzeit University. He earned his PhD in Molecular Biology and Experimental Hematology in 2003 from the Institute of Experimental Hematology and Transfusion Medicine at the University of Bonn, and completed a two-year postdoctoral fellowship at the same institute. He is currently the chairperson of the Department of Medical Laboratory Sciences at Birzeit University. His research interests focus on the molecular biology of thalassemia, hemophilia, thrombophilia, and immunohematology.
Dr. Iryna Ben
Assistant Professor of Infectious Diseases, PhD, MD
Danylo Halytsky Lviv National Medical University, Ukraine
Dr. Iryna Ben, PhD, MD, is an Assistant Professor of Infectious Diseases at Danylo Halytsky Lviv National Medical University and a scientific consultant in public health emergency management and One Health for the INSIGHT project of the I-TECH training center, University of Washington. Specialized first in epidemiology — as a junior research scientist in the laboratory of transmissible viral infections — and then in infectious diseases, she has worked in HIV/AIDS and HCV/HIV coinfection care and currently practices at the Regional Infectious Diseases Hospital. She is the author and co-author of over 90 publications, including 5 patents for utility models, 2 guidelines, and 2 monographs.
Dr. Melissa MacKinnon
Veterinary Epidemiologist; DVM, DACVS-LA, MSc, PhD
Public Health Agency of Canada
Dr. Melissa MacKinnon (DVM, DACVS-LA, MSc, PhD) is a veterinary epidemiologist specializing in antimicrobial resistance in enteric pathogens and One Health surveillance, and Acting Surveillance Manager in the Foodborne Disease and Antimicrobial Resistance Surveillance Division at the Public Health Agency of Canada. With the Canadian Program for Antimicrobial Resistance Surveillance (CIPARS), she leads national surveillance activities including data analysis, reporting, partner engagement, and international collaboration, ensuring surveillance data are accessible, interpretable, and actionable for public health decision-making. Her doctoral research at the University of Guelph focused on the added burden of disease from antimicrobial resistance in humans with Escherichia coli bloodstream infections.
Dr. Katya S. Wilson
Epidemiologist & Program Evaluator, PhD, MPH
University of Washington, USA
Katya S. Wilson, PhD, MPH, is an epidemiologist and program evaluator with more than 20 years of experience leading health system interventions to deliver accessible, culturally aligned, and integrated HIV and sexual and reproductive health (SRH) services for women and adolescents. She is experienced in co-designing health programs with NGOs, governments, and community partners using implementation science, quality improvement, and digital health, and in building health workforce capacity to use data to prevent, detect, and respond to health threats. She is committed to strengthening innovative, community-centered care models that address the root causes of inequities and deliver effective, sustainable health care for all people.
Dr. Haneen Nur
Professor of Hematology & Immunology
Dean of the College of Pharmacy and Medical Sciences at Hebron University, Palestine
Professor Haneen Nur is Dean of the College of Pharmacy and Medical Sciences at Hebron University, where she has served as a faculty member since 1998. She holds a Ph.D. in Medical Sciences, specializing in hematology and immunology, from Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Belgium. Her expertise encompasses immunology, hematological malignancies, cancer immunotherapy, clinical laboratory sciences, and public health. Her research also addresses infectious disease-related topics, including hepatitis B, COVID-19, biomarkers of bacterial infection, and multidrug-resistant wound isolates. She has extensive experience in academic leadership, postgraduate supervision, scientific publishing, peer review, and biomedical research evaluation. She also serves on the American Society for Clinical Pathology Board of Certification Palestine Advisory Board and several editorial and peer-review boards. As a member of the ICID Conflict 2026 Scientific Committee, she contributes expertise in biomedical research, laboratory medicine, immunology, and academic evaluation.
Dr. Wail A. Hayajneh
Professor of Pediatric Infectious Diseases
Saint Louis University School of Medicine, USA
Dr. Wail A. Hayajneh is a pediatric infectious disease physician, Professor of Pediatric Infectious Diseases, and Director of Infection Prevention and Control at Cardinal Glennon Children's Hospital, Saint Louis University School of Medicine. He previously served as Secretary General for Epidemics and Communicable Diseases at Jordan's Ministry of Health and chaired the National Committee for Epidemics, leading national preparedness efforts including the COVID-19 response. His expertise includes immunization, infection prevention and control, antimicrobial stewardship, antimicrobial resistance, and One Health. He has contributed to global health initiatives through the World Health Organization and authored more than 70 peer-reviewed publications.
Dr. Mohammad Alkhaldi
Global Health Policy & Systems Expert
Canadian University Dubai, UAE; TGHN MENA (Univ. of Oxford)
Dr. Alkhaldi is a global health policy and systems expert, scholar, and educator with over 15 years of international experience across academia, multilateral organizations, and cross-sector partnerships. He holds a Doctorate in Public Health from Swiss TPH, specializing in health systems and policy research. He has led multinational health system analyses across the MENA region and developed a distinguished portfolio in global health governance, health policy and systems research (HPSR), digital health innovation, health technology assessment (HTA), and evidence-informed policymaking, including in fragile and humanitarian settings. He has served in leadership, advisory, and consultancy roles with Swiss TPH, McGill University, WHO, UNICEF, and RKI, among others, and has authored over 60 scholarly and policy publications. He is currently an Assistant Professor at Canadian University Dubai, a Visiting Fellow at McGill University, and Scientific Lead and Regional Coordinator of TGHN MENA, affiliated with the University of Oxford.
Dr. Jan Hattendorf
Epidemiologist & Biostatistician, PD, PhD
Swiss Tropical and Public Health Institute (Swiss TPH), Switzerland
Dr. Jan Hattendorf (PD, PhD) is an epidemiologist at Swiss TPH with more than 20 years of research experience. His interests include study design and biostatistics, with a particular focus on soil-transmitted and zoonotic diseases. He is a university lecturer at undergraduate, graduate, and postgraduate level, and has authored five book chapters and 230 articles in international peer-reviewed journals.
Dr. Abdifatah Muktar Muhummed
One Health Epidemiologist & AMR Specialist
Jigjiga University, Ethiopia
Dr. Abdifatah Muktar Muhummed is a One Health epidemiologist and antimicrobial resistance (AMR) specialist with extensive experience spanning research, programme leadership, capacity strengthening, and policy engagement across Africa. He holds a PhD in Epidemiology and Public Health from the Swiss Tropical and Public Health Institute (Swiss TPH) and the University of Basel, where he advanced integrative One Health approaches to AMR surveillance and mitigation in African contexts. Currently a Postdoctoral Fellow at the University of Lausanne, he integrates epidemiological analysis, metagenomics, and long-read sequencing to generate actionable evidence on AMR transmission, plasmid dynamics, and microbiome ecology across humans, animals, food systems, and the environment. He has led complex One Health and AMR programmes in practice, particularly in Ethiopia's Somali Region, working with government authorities, academic institutions, NGOs, and international partners.
Dr. Salome Dürr
Associate Professor, Veterinary Epidemiology
University of Bern, Switzerland
Salome Dürr is a faculty member and associate professor at the University of Bern, Switzerland. She is a veterinary epidemiologist with a diploma from the European College of Veterinary Public Health and has 20 years of research experience in zoonoses epidemiology, the application and theory of One Health, and infectious disease modelling. Canine rabies is one of her main research topics, with projects across Africa and Asia; other current projects address African swine fever, foot-and-mouth disease, and water-borne parasitic diseases. She focuses on applying sound research that generates outcomes authorities can use directly for disease surveillance and control.
Dr. Hilal Al-Hashami
Senior Consultant, Pediatric Infectious Diseases
Royal Hospital, Muscat, Oman
Dr. Hilal Al-Hashami, MD, DCH, MRCPCH, CABP, MSc, is a Senior Consultant in Pediatric Infectious Diseases at the Royal Hospital, Muscat, Oman. He completed his fellowship in Pediatric Infectious Diseases at The Hospital for Sick Children, University of Toronto, Canada, and holds a Master's in Clinical Epidemiology. He is the President and Founder of the Oman Society of Medical Microbiology and Infectious Diseases and serves on several national committees, including the National Immunization Technical Advisory Group (NITAG) and antimicrobial resistance initiatives. His expertise includes pediatric infectious diseases, antimicrobial stewardship, vaccination, infection prevention and control, and emerging infectious diseases. He has authored numerous peer-reviewed publications and contributed to national clinical guidelines.
Dr. Anton Gerilovych
Professor; Corresponding Member of NAAS
Ukraine
Prof. Dr. Anton Gerilovych is a veterinarian and molecular diagnostics scientist from Kharkiv, Ukraine. He founded and leads the One Health Institute (2022) and the One Health Scientific and Research Institute (2024), and heads the Department of Microbiology at the Institute for Problems of Cryobiology and Cryomedicine of the National Academy of Sciences of Ukraine. He holds a Doctor of Science (Dr. Hab., 2011), became Professor in 2015, and Corresponding Member of the NAAS in 2016. A recipient of the State Award in Sciences and Techniques of Ukraine (2009) and the Government of Ukraine Award for innovative developments (2017), he is author and co-author of 20 registered diagnostic kits, 28 methodological guidelines, 38 patents, and over 300 papers on molecular diagnostics and epidemiology.
Dr. Sayed Himatt
Senior Public Health Physician
Eastern Mediterranean Region
Dr. Sayed Himatt is a senior public health physician with more than 20 years of experience in disease surveillance, epidemic intelligence, health security, and rapid response systems across the Eastern Mediterranean Region. He has supported ministries of health, WHO, regional bodies, and partners on IHR (2005), integrated disease surveillance, outbreak investigation, simulation exercises, One Health, RRT strengthening, and the establishment and evaluation of EWARS/EWARN in conflict-affected settings.
Dr. Shatha Al Beik
Public Health Coordinator; PharmD, MPH
UNRWA Headquarters, Jordan
Shatha Al Beik, PharmD, MPH, is a public health coordinator with the Health Department at UNRWA Headquarters, where she supports the planning, implementation, monitoring, and evaluation of health programmes across the Agency's fields of operation. Her work focuses on humanitarian health, health systems strengthening, emergency preparedness and response, operational research, project management, and partnerships. She has contributed to the implementation of evidence-based health projects and collaborative research aimed at improving the quality, accessibility, and resilience of health services in conflict-affected settings.
Dr. Kamal Jarrar
Researcher — AI in Epidemiology
LMAP, Université de Pau et des Pays de l'Adour (UPPA), France
Kamal Jarrar is a researcher at the Laboratoire de Mathématiques et de leurs Applications de Pau (LMAP), Université de Pau et des Pays de l'Adour (UPPA), France. His research focuses on applications of Artificial Intelligence in epidemiology and health sciences. He holds a Bachelor's degree in Mathematics, a Master's in Applied Statistics, a Master's in Data Science in Health Sciences, and a PhD in Mathematics, with a research focus on Artificial Intelligence for epidemiology.
Dr. Mohammad Qadi
Associate Professor of Medical Microbiology
An-Najah National University, Palestine
Mohammad Qadi, PhD, is an Associate Professor of Medical Microbiology at the Faculty of Medicine and Allied Medical Sciences at An-Najah National University, holding a PhD in Infection and Immunity from Spain. Dr. Qadi provides scientific leadership across a diverse range of topics in medical microbiology, with primary expertise in infection and immunity research, antimicrobial resistance (AMR), critical clinical pathogens, and alternative therapeutics like natural antimicrobial products. His extensive experience includes analyzing the profound impacts of conflict conditions and supply chain disruptions on laboratory diagnostics and standard compliance in resource-limited environments. He is a dedicated educator and postgraduate mentor.
Dr. Rami Saadeh
Associate Professor of Public Health
Jordan University of Science and Technology, Jordan
Dr. Rami Saadeh is an Associate Professor at Jordan University of Science and Technology in Irbid, Jordan. He earned a Bachelor of Dental Surgery (BDS) from Jordan University of Science and Technology, a Master of Science in Public Health (MSPH) from Tulane University in the USA, and a PhD in Environmental Health and Epidemiology from Indiana University in the USA.
Dr. Iman Qoraan
Assistant Professor, Medical Microbiology
Faculty of Medicine, Arab American University – Palestine
Dr. Iman Quraan is an Assistant Professor at the Faculty of Medicine, Arab American University – Palestine, and a medical microbiologist with research interests in infection prevention and control, antimicrobial resistance, and medical mycology. Her work focuses on exploring medicinal plants native to Palestine as potential alternatives to conventional antibiotics in combating resistant pathogens, and she has also researched clinically important fungi and fungal infections. Through her research and academic activities, she is committed to advancing microbiological sciences and addressing emerging public health challenges.
Dr. Hatem Eideh
Assistant Professor of Medical Microbiology
Al-Quds University, Palestine
Dr. Hatem Eideh is an Assistant Professor of Medical Microbiology and a department member of Medical Laboratory Sciences at Al-Quds University, where he is currently Head of the department. He teaches microbiology courses for undergraduate and graduate students and is active in research, having supervised several master's students. His research interests are in molecular typing of microbial pathogens, mechanisms of antibiotic resistance of bacterial pathogens, molecular diagnosis of infections, and molecular epidemiology of nosocomial infection. He has several publications in his fields of interest.
Dr. Feras Al Battah
Assistant Professor of Stem Cell Biology
Arab American University (AAUP), Palestine
Dr. Feras Al Battah is an Assistant Professor of stem cell biology at the Arab American University (AAUP), Palestine. He holds a master's degree in molecular medical biotechnology from Ghent University, Belgium, where he conducted his master's research project in medical genetics, focusing on mutation screening of the collagen gene in patients with osteogenesis imperfecta. He served as head of the Biology Department at AAUP and received his PhD in pharmaceutical sciences (stem cell biology) from the Vrije Universiteit Brussel (VUB), Belgium, in December 2011.
Dr. Alaa Salah Mushtaha
Assistant Professor, Health Sciences
Higher Colleges of Technology (HCT), UAE
Dr. Alaa Salah Mushtaha is an Assistant Professor at the Higher Colleges of Technology (HCT) in the United Arab Emirates and serves as Chair of the Health Sciences College Research Taskforce. He received his Doctor of Business Administration from the UAE University and a Master's in Healthcare Management from the Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland (RCSI). His research focuses on health systems resilience, healthcare quality improvement, health informatics, innovation, and evidence-based management. Dr. Mushtaha serves as a reviewer and Scientific Committee member for several international conferences and actively contributes to advancing high-quality research through peer review and interdisciplinary collaboration. As a researcher and academic leader, he is committed to fostering interdisciplinary collaboration and advancing research that informs policy and strengthens healthcare systems affected by conflict and public health emergencies.
Ms. Wafa Ali Abu-Sibaa
Clinical Laboratory Sciences
UNRWA/Doura Health Clinic, Hebron University, Palestine
Wafa Ali Abu-Sibaa is a laboratory technician at the UNRWA/Doura Health Clinic and a part-time lecturer at Hebron University. She is a member of the Thalassemia Patients' Friends Society – Palestine (TPFS)/Hebron, and a PhD student in Clinical Laboratory Sciences at An-Najah National University.
Mr. Issa Shtayeh
PhD Candidate, Clinical Laboratory Science
Central Public Health Laboratory (CPHL), Palestinian MOH
Dr. Issa Shtayeh is a PhD candidate in Clinical Laboratory Science at An-Najah National University, where he also earned his MSc in Medical Laboratory Sciences. He brings over 25 years of expertise to the Molecular Diagnostic Division at the Central Public Health Laboratory (CPHL) and serves as a key member of the CPHL Scientific Committee within the Ministry of Health (MOH). A key figure in regional and global health networks, he serves as the Palestinian Focal Point for the National Influenza Center, the PulseNet Middle East region (foodborne pathogens), and the human virology module of the EU-funded OneHealthSecure project, which monitors emerging viruses across 19 countries in the Mediterranean and Black Sea regions. He is also a certified National Trainer in Biosafety and Biosecurity, a technical consultant on molecular techniques for the Palestinian Forensic Laboratory (Ministry of Interior), and a part-time lecturer at the Arab American University.
Ms. Walaa Masri
University Lecturer & Researcher
Palestine Technical University – Kadoorie, Palestine
Ms. Walaa Masri is a university lecturer at Palestine Technical University – Kadoorie and a researcher from Nablus, Palestine, with an MSc in Basic Biotechnology from Ankara University and a BSc in Medical Laboratory Sciences from An-Najah National University. Her background combines molecular virology, bioinformatics, medical laboratory sciences, and infectious disease research.
Dr. Radwan Fayez Hassan Al-Qasrawi
Professor of Computer Science
Al-Quds University, Palestine
Dr. Radwan Fayez Hassan Al-Qasrawi is a Professor of Computer Science at Al-Quds University. His research interests include artificial intelligence, machine learning, precision health, digital health systems, biomedical research, optimization algorithms, and technology-driven innovation. He has published extensively in high-impact international journals and has supervised numerous research, innovation, and startup development initiatives. In addition to his academic role, he actively contributes to policy development, innovation governance, and the establishment of national and regional innovation platforms that strengthen collaboration between academia, industry, government, and the entrepreneurial ecosystem.
Mr. Shadi Hasan
MSc, Laboratory Technician
Birzeit University, Palestine
Mr. Shadi Hasan, MSc, is a Laboratory Technician at Birzeit University, Palestine. He specializes in medical microbiology and molecular diagnostics, with research interests in antimicrobial resistance, particularly extended-spectrum β-lactamase (ESBL)-producing and carbapenem-resistant Enterobacterales (CRE). He has experience in bacterial identification, antimicrobial susceptibility testing, PCR techniques, and laboratory education for medical laboratory science students.
Dr. Khalil Ibrahim Hamad
MPH, Epidemiology
UNRWA, Palestine
Dr. Khalil Ibrahim Hamad is a field disease control officer holding a Master of Public Health in Epidemiology.
Prof. Sahar Hassan
Professor of Nursing and Women’s Health
Birzeit University, Palestine
Prof. Sahar Hassan is a Professor of Nursing and Women’s Health, former Dean of the Faculty of Pharmacy, Nursing, and Health Professions, and Director of the Master’s Program in Women’s Health at Birzeit University, Palestine. She holds a PhD in Women’s Health from the University of Oslo, Norway, and a Master’s degree in Nursing from the University of Pennsylvania, USA. A leader in nursing and midwifery education, she pioneered the elevation of midwifery to the bachelor’s level in Palestine in 1998 and contributed to the development and revision of the first national Obstetrics guidelines and protocols since 2004, continuing to serve on updating committees through the latest 2024 version. In 2025, she was appointed to the Scientific and Technical Advisory Group (STAG) of WHO’s Special Programme of Research in Human Reproduction (HRP). Prof. Hassan has led international collaborative projects, secured research grants, and conducted national and multi-country qualitative, quantitative, and clinical studies, resulting in 30+ peer-reviewed publications. She mentors students at undergraduate, master’s, and doctoral levels and serves on national and international professional and organizational boards.
Open to All — No Conference Registration Required
Connect knowledge. Build practical skills.
28–31 October 2026 · Teaching 28, 29 & 31 Oct · 7 Expert-Led Courses
October 2026
3Days
7Courses
9Instructors
OnsiteIn person
An intensive, onsite programme for students, researchers, early-career scientists, and health practitioners, held right after ICID 2026. Choose up to 2 courses across four parallel rooms.
Where
Onsite at the Institute of Community and Public Health, Birzeit University, Palestine
When
28–31 October 2026, right after ICID 2026 (26–27 October)
Daily programme
08:00–16:00, teaching on Wednesday 28, Thursday 29 and Saturday 31 October
Friday 30 October
No teaching
Four parallel rooms
Rooms A–D, each with a capacity of 30–35 participants
Choose up to 2
Each room runs one course at a time; pick up to 2 courses for the whole school
7 Expert-Led Courses
Choose up to 2 courses across four parallel rooms — all delivered onsite at Birzeit University
Thu 29 Oct · 08:00–12:00 · Room A
Sat 31 Oct · 08:00–12:00 · Room A
01
One Health in Action: From Concepts to Solutions
An introductory course connecting human, animal, and environmental health. It moves beyond definitions to examine how interconnected health threats are jointly understood and addressed, with examples from AMR, emerging infections, and environmental hazards — and particular attention to fragile and conflict-affected settings.
Instructor
- Dr. Said Abukhattab Al-Barghouthi — Epidemiologist specializing in AMR, infectious disease, and public health in conflict-affected settings; PhD, Faculty of Medicine, University of Basel
Thu 29 Oct · 08:00–12:00 · Room D
Sat 31 Oct · 08:00–12:00 · Room D
02
Antimicrobial & Diagnostic Stewardship in Conflict Settings
A practical course on antimicrobial and diagnostic stewardship for hospitals operating with disrupted systems, limited diagnostics, and antimicrobial shortages — covering empirical therapy optimization, antibiogram interpretation, and stewardship performance indicators.
Instructors
- Dr. Rabee Adwan — Infectious Disease & Infection Control Consultant; Head of Department, Al-Makassed Hospital & Istishari Arab Hospital
- Dr. Sireen Shatat, PharmD — Infectious Disease Clinical Pharmacist, Istishari Arab Hospital
- Duaa Bakir, PharmD — Infectious Disease Clinical Pharmacist, Medication Management Unit Coordinator, Al-Makassed Hospital
Thu 29 Oct · 12:00–16:00 · Room C
Sat 31 Oct · 12:00–16:00 · Room B
03
Understanding AI in Healthcare
A non-technical introduction to AI and machine learning in medicine for clinicians and public health professionals with no coding background, using real clinical case studies — including a critical look at bias in AI models for conflict-affected populations.
Instructor
- Dr. Suha Naser-Khdour — PhD in Bioinformatics & Computational Biology, Australian National University; teaching experience at University of Basel and Uppsala University
Wed 28 Oct · 12:30–16:30 · Room C
04
AI Signatures Path in Health Sciences
A practical course on discovering AI-driven “signatures” or patterns within complex health and epidemiological data, moving from question formulation through discovery, validation, and real-world application, using Google Colab.
Instructor
- Dr. Kamal Jarrar — Université de Pau (France); Charles University Faculty of Medicine (Czech Republic); Université de Montréal Faculty of Veterinary Medicine (Canada)
Wed 28 Oct · 08:00–12:20 · Room B
Thu 29 Oct · 12:00–16:00 · Room B
05
Modeling for Prediction in One Health
An introduction to statistical and mathematical approaches to epidemiologic prediction, moving from machine-learning extensions of statistical models to a hands-on Ross-Macdonald model built and parameterized in Excel.
Instructor
- Dr. Julianne Meisner — Assistant Professor, Global Health & Epidemiology, University of Washington; Director, Center for One Health Research
Sat 31 Oct · 12:00–16:00 · Room C
06
Statistical Meta-Analysis
A practical introduction to combining quantitative results from multiple studies into a single pooled estimate — covering fixed vs. random-effects models, heterogeneity, publication bias, and interpretation of forest and funnel plots in R.
Instructor
- Dr. Abdulhakeem Eideh — Professor of Statistics, Data Science, and Survey Methodology, Al-Quds University, Abu Dis Campus, Palestine
Wed 28 Oct · 08:00–12:20 · Room A
07
Implementation Science for One Health
A practical course on embedding evidence-based health programmes into routine practice — framing implementation questions, applying the CFIR framework and ERIC strategies, and developing a concept note for a One Health / AMR challenge.
Instructor
- Dr. Katya S. Wilson, PhD, MPH — Epidemiologist and program evaluator with 20+ years leading health-system interventions; experienced co-designing programs with NGOs, governments, and communities using implementation science, quality improvement, and digital health
Daily Schedule
Four parallel rooms (A–D) · 08:00–16:00 · Onsite at the Institute of Community and Public Health, Birzeit University
Wednesday, 28 October
| Room | Course | Time |
|---|---|---|
| Room A | Implementation Science for One Health | 08:00–12:20 |
| Room B | Modeling for Prediction in One Health — Day 1 | 08:00–12:20 |
| Room C | AI Signatures Path in Health Sciences | 12:30–16:30 |
Thursday, 29 October
| Room | Course | Time |
|---|---|---|
| Room A | One Health in Action: From Concepts to Solutions | 08:00–12:00 |
| Room B | Modeling for Prediction in One Health — Day 2 | 12:00–16:00 |
| Room C | Understanding AI in Healthcare | 12:00–16:00 |
| Room D | Antimicrobial & Diagnostic Stewardship in Conflict Settings — Day 1 | 08:00–12:00 |
Friday, 30 October
No teaching
Saturday, 31 October
| Room | Course | Time |
|---|---|---|
| Room A | One Health in Action: From Concepts to Solutions | 08:00–12:00 |
| Room B | Understanding AI in Healthcare | 12:00–16:00 |
| Room C | Statistical Meta-Analysis | 12:00–16:00 |
| Room D | Antimicrobial & Diagnostic Stewardship in Conflict Settings — Day 2 | 08:00–12:00 |
- Participants are expected to attend their selected courses in person.
- Break times are at the instructor’s discretion and are typically scheduled after 1–1.5 hours of teaching.
Ready to advance your skills?
Limited seats available. Apply now to secure your place in the ICID 2026 Winter One Health School.
Important Dates
Key Dates
From the call for abstracts to the Winter One Health School
JUN
13 June 2026
Call for Abstracts
The call for research abstracts across the six thematic tracks opened.
AUG
7 August 2026
Abstract Submission Deadline
Submissions closed; double-blind peer review followed.
SEP
5 September 2026
Notification of Acceptance
Authors were notified of acceptance decisions.
SEP
30 September 2026
Full Paper / Extended Abstract Deadline
Final papers and extended abstracts due.
OCT
26–27 October 2026
ICID 2026 Conference
Two days at Birzeit University: four Davos-style sessions, flash talks and posters.
OCT
28–31 October 2026
Winter One Health School
Seven courses, taught on 28, 29 and 31 October (no teaching on Friday 30).
Location
Venue & Travel
Birzeit University, Palestine · a hybrid event with onsite and online participation
Birzeit University
Nasseb Azeez Shaheen Auditorium / Said Khoury Development Studies Room 104
Located on the archaeological site of Khirbet Birzeit, the 750-dunam hilltop campus sits 850m above sea level with Mediterranean views. Founded 1924, ranked #1 nationally.
Partners
Organizers & Partners
ICID 2026 is hosted by Birzeit University and organized with its Institute of Community and Public Health and the Swiss Tropical and Public Health Institute.
Birzeit University
Host institution. Birzeit, Palestine.
Institute of Community and Public Health
Birzeit University. Organizing institute.
Swiss TPH
Swiss Tropical and Public Health Institute. Organizing partner.
Interested in supporting or partnering with ICID 2026?
Get in touchConference report
Conference Report
تقرير المؤتمر والتغطية
A living reference of how ICID 2026 was seen, shared and discussed: posts, reels and live streams from the organisers, partner institutions and participants.
Privacy
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