As part of the graduate seminar activities of the Department of Biology, College of Science, two PhD seminars were held on the morning of Monday, February 2, 2026, at 10:00 a.m. in Dr. Mahmoud Al-Haj Qasim Hall, with the attendance of a number of faculty members and postgraduate students.

The first seminar was presented by PhD student Raya Ghassan Fathi, specializing in Biology (Zoology), under the title of her dissertation:

“Histological and Physiological Responses to the Effects of Bioactive Compounds of Galangal Plant in Albino Rats Exposed to Oxidative Stress”

under the supervision of Assist. Prof. Dr. Waad Sabri Shaher and Assist. Prof. Dr. Ali Saeed Hamoudi.

The seminar addressed the histological and physiological effects of bioactive compounds extracted from galangal, highlighting their potential role in reducing oxidative stress and its pathological consequences in animal models.

The second seminar was presented by PhD student Amina Ismail Abdulhamid, specializing in Biology (Botany), under the title of her dissertation:

“Extraction and Characterization of Silicon Compounds from Maize Plants and Their Role in the Expression of Drought Resistance Genes in Wheat”

under the supervision of Assist. Prof. Dr. Wasan Saleh Hussein and Assist. Prof. Dr. Rana Tariq Yahya.

The seminar highlighted the importance of silicon compounds extracted from maize plants and their role in enhancing the expression of genes responsible for drought resistance in wheat, thereby improving tolerance to environmental stresses.

These seminars are part of the Department of Biology’s commitment to supporting scientific research, promoting a culture of scientific inquiry, and providing postgraduate students with opportunities to present and discuss their research outcomes in a rigorous academic environment.

Media and Government Communication Division

Thursday, February 5, 2026