UOD, December 24, 2025 | University Press Office (UNPO) — The University of Duhok (UOD) has achieved a notable international milestone as its American Chemical Society (ACS) International Student Chapter—the first ACS student chapter established in Iraq—has been officially featured in Chemical & Engineering News (C&EN), the flagship publication of the American Chemical Society.

This international recognition highlights the chapter's successful National Chemistry Week event, "The Hidden Life of Spices," held in October, 2025, at the College of Science, cooperatively by the Departments of Chemistry and Biology.

Get to Know Chemical & Engineering News (C&EN)

Chemical & Engineering News (C&EN) is the authoritative weekly news magazine of the American Chemical Society (ACS), covering global developments in chemistry, chemical engineering, scientific research, industry trends, public policy, and career development. With correspondents across the United States, Europe, and Asia, C&EN is widely regarded as a trusted source of information for the international chemical science community.

Guided by Excellence

This achievement was made possible through the dedicated mentorship of Asst. Prof. Dr. Suhad Abdulrahman Yasin. As the chapter adviser, Dr. Suhad has been instrumental in guiding the team with "fervor and intent," revitalizing the student body's passion for science, and cultivating the next generation of scientists through hands-on engagement.

Student Leadership in Action

The feature praises the chapter for moving beyond the classroom to foster soft skills, leadership, and interdisciplinary collaboration.

• Co-president Heleen Issa Fatah was highlighted for her leadership in bridging the gap between biology and chemistry students.
• Members Rayan Hussein Ahmed and Zinar Ali Abdulmajed were recognized for their dedication, inspired by the energy of the community Dr. Suhad has helped build.

The Event: The Hidden Life of Spices

The team successfully organized a creative and interactive event that included:

• Spice identification experiments.
• Hands-on laboratory challenges.
• Cross-disciplinary collaboration between chemistry and biology students.
• Handcrafted prizes and demonstrations.

This international recognition reflects UOD’s growing presence in global scientific networks and its commitment to promoting research-driven education, student leadership, and international visibility, in line with the University of Duhok Strategic Plan (2023–2038).

Link of the news at Chemical & Engineering News (C&EN):

CLICK HERE TO VIEW THE NEWS STORY AT C&EN

University Press Office, December 24, 2025
Reported By: Fatima Mahmood Ali, Nizheen A. Ali

The News Keywords

• University of Duhok ACS Chapter
• Chemical & Engineering News C&EN
• ACS International Student Chapter Iraq
• National Chemistry Week UOD
• Global Recognition of Iraqi Universities