The Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland (RCSI) - Medical University of Bahrain is proud to announce that Professor Manaf Alqahtani, Founding Head of Microbiology Department at the University and has been awarded the Excellence and Scientific Research Award by the Cepheid American Foundation.

This accolade recognises Professor Alqahtani’s exceptional scientific contributions and research toward advancing scientific progress and innovation in the field of infectious diseases and public health. His extensive work spans clinical leadership, public health policy, and international collaboration, with a consistent focus on building sustainable and scalable systems that are contextually relevant and globally informed. 

Professor Alqahtani has played an instrumental role in strengthening Bahrain’s public health capacity, whether through his collaboration with the World Health Organization, advising national health policy, or leading infection control initiatives within the Royal Medical Services. In light of this award, the Ministry of Health has formally expressed its thanks and gratitude to Professor Alqahtani for his significant achievements in enhancing the Kingdom’s health sector. 

Commenting on the award, Professor Sameer Otoom, President of RCSI Medical University of Bahrain, stated: “We extend our warmest congratulations to Professor Manaf Alqahtani on this recognition, which rightly acknowledges his significant achievements in enhancing the Kingdom of Bahrain ’s health sector. His dedication to advancing science, contributing to public health systems, and serving society exemplifies the values we uphold as a university. We wish him continued success in his scholarship, research and service for the benefit of the people of Bahrain.” 

Expressing his appreciation, Professor Manaf Alqahtani, said: “I am honoured to receive this award, which recognises the collective efforts of many colleagues and students, who are actively engaged in research and scientific advancement. My focus has always been on strengthening systems that safeguard public health while advancing scientific innovation. I remain committed to working collaboratively to strengthen Bahrain’s capacity to anticipate, respond to, and lead in public health.” 

RCSI Medical University of Bahrain celebrates this achievement as a testament to the impact of its faculty in shaping medical innovation and advancing healthcare for the benefit of society.