Dr. Wafa Abualainin, Consultant Clinical Scientist, Diagnostic Genomics Division, Hamad Medical Corporation, Qatar
Dr. Wafa Abualainin is a Consultant Clinical Scientist at the Molecular Genetics and Genomics at Hamad Medical Corporation (HMC). She is a leading figure in diagnostic genomics and a pioneer in precision cancer medicine in Qatar. With a distinguished career at HMC, she currently serves as the Head of the Solid Tumor Section in the Diagnostic Genomics Division, Department of Laboratory Medicine and Pathology (DLMP).
Dr. Abualainin graduated with a degree in Biomedical Sciences from Qatar University in 2004. She joined HMC’s Molecular Genetics Lab and later pursued her PhD in Cancer Studies from the University of Liverpool, UK. She then pursued postdoctoral training at the University Health Network in Toronto and completed an advanced genomics courses at Harvard Medical School.
Dr. Abualainin has published in reputable peer-reviewed journals and played a vital role in establishing molecular testing for multiple solid tumours, helping to personalise cancer treatment in line with international guidelines.
She introduced Next Generation Sequencing (NGS) to clinical diagnostics at HMC, using both tissue and liquid biopsies, significantly improving diagnostic accuracy and treatment planning. More recently, she has contributed to the establishment of Whole Exome Sequencing (WES) services and is now working on pharmacogenomic testing to tailor drug selection based on each patient’s genetic makeup.
These advancements are transforming cancer care by enabling more precise, effective and safer treatments. Dr. Abualainin’s contributions have not only elevated the quality of cancer diagnostics in Qatar but have also placed HMC at the forefront of genomic medicine in the region. Her dedication and innovation reflect her unwavering commitment to improving patient outcomes and advancing the goals of Qatar’s National Cancer Strategy.
