Success Stories
About the Project
Blending both his passions in neurosurgery and innovation, Walid applied to Stars of Science Season 10 with an idea that would contribute not only to patients’ wellbeing, but also to the innovation ecosystem in the Arab region.
In order to enhance the monitoring process of stroke patients in the Intensive Care Unit, Walid developed a portable Neurovascular Retina Analyzer that indicates if a patient is in need of a more intensive follow up or more urgent medical care. This technology increases the quality of brain monitoring and gives medical professionals greater efficiency and additional options for observing patients during the critical time of recovery.
After taking home the first prize, and prior to the COVID-19 pandemic, Walid was granted additional funding from Rwth Aachen University Hospital in Germany and approval to start a study aimed at further developing his technology. “The whole world was put on hold due to the Coronavirus outbreak, including my funding and research. With the shortage of medical professionals around the globe, doctors specialized in various fields were reallocated to treat the virus’ patients. I am honored to be a part of this battle even if that means I have to put my innovation journey on hold.”
Beyond Stars of Science
Walid’s altruistic nature was put to the test as a doctor facing both a novel virus and a global outbreak. Giving his undivided focus to his job as a doctor, he not only performed his duty as a neurosurgeon but remained on-call for a variety of patients at extended hours.
Following his success on the show, Walid has been working on supporting Arab youth during their quest for greatness by answering questions on social media. After returning to Stars of Science a year after winning as co-host, Walid set his eyes on a new goal: “My time as a co-host on the show was very exciting and extremely different than being a contestant under pressure. Getting to share my knowledge and experiences with the contestants awakened my passion for mentoring budding talents in our region. I cannot imagine the fulfillment one feels as a jury member on the show and I hope one day I can experience it for myself!”
Personal Reflection
Reminiscing on his time on Stars of Science, Walid points out that the connections he made during his time on the show were the best outcome of the experience. Spending time with his fellow contestants and having discussions over morning coffee in the lab were some of the most memorable moments to him.
Addressing the promising Arab youth and the future of the region, Walid states: “They key to great achievements in the innovation world is the knowledge accumulated from lifelong connections made throughout one’s life. Success is not a destination; it’s a journey!”
Follow Walid on…
Facebook Page: Dr.Walid.Albanna
Facebook Profile: Walid Albanna
Instagram: Prof.Dr.Walid.Albanna
YouTube: Prof. Dr. Walid Albanna
