GA²CI Junior Members Assembly
Introduction
The establishment of the GA²CI Junior Members Assembly represents a forward-looking strategic initiative designed to support and advance early-career allergists and clinical immunologists. By aligning with international best practices, the Assembly aims to enhance academic excellence, foster educational growth, and cultivate the next generation of leaders in Allergy and Clinical Immunology.
Eligibility Criteria
Membership in the GA²CI Junior Members Assembly will be open to individuals who meet any of the following criteria:
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Age ≤ 42 years, or
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Currently in training (residents, fellows, PhD students), or
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Within 7 years of specialist/board certification in Allergy and Clinical Immunology.
Duration of Junior Status
Junior status shall remain valid until:
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7 years post-certification, or
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40 years of age (if the age criterion is adopted).
Executive Committee
Chair
Provide overall leadership and strategic direction for the Junior Assembly
Represent the Assembly within GA²CI and at external meetings
Chair meetings and oversee implementation of activities and initiatives
Ensure alignment with GA²CI vision, goals, and priorities
Support and mentor the Vice Chair and Secretary
Vice Chair
Support the Chair in all duties and act on their behalf when required
Lead specific projects, programs, or working groups
Help coordinate educational and networking activities
Ensure continuity and smooth transition of leadership
Engage and motivate junior members
Secretary
Organize and coordinate meetings (agenda, scheduling, logistics)
Record and circulate minutes and key decisions
Maintain communication with members (emails, updates, announcements)
Keep records of activities, membership, and initiatives
Support coordination of events and administrative tasks
The Executive Committee shall coordinate the activities of the Junior Members Assembly, represent junior members within GA²CI, and liaise with the senior leadership. The term of office for the Executive Committee shall be two (2) years.
Strategic Objectives
A. Education
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Exam preparation webinars
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Regular journal clubs
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Case-based interactive sessions
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Research methodology workshops
B. Research Development
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Junior-led research collaborations
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Abstract mentoring prior to the GA²CI Congress
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Travel grants for scientific meetings
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Annual award for Best Junior Scientific Paper
C. Mentorship & Career Development
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Structured senior–junior mentorship pairing
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Career pathway discussions (academic vs. private practice)
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Grant writing mentorship programs
D. Representation & Visibility
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Junior representation in GA²CI guidelines and task forces
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Dedicated Junior Track at the annual GA²CI meeting
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“Junior Corner” section in the GA²CI newsletter
Mentorship
The Junior Members Assembly will be supported by senior mentors:
Prof. Rand Arnaout
Consultant Allergist and Clinical Immunologist, Section Head,
Allergy and Immunology,
King Faisal Specialist Hospital & Research Centre Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
Dr. Hiba Shendi
Consultant Allergist and Clinical Immunologist,
Sheikh Khalifa Medical City, Abu Dhabi, UAE
Dr. Iman Nasr
Consultant Internist, Immunologist and Allergist Head of Clinical Immunology and Allergy Department, Royal Hospital, Oman, Vice president of the Oman Society of Allergy and Clinical Immunology
Prof. Mohamed Abuzakouk
Consultant in Allergy and Clinical Immunology, Chair and Founder of the Allergy and Immunology Department, Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi, UAE,
Past President of the Emirates Allergy and Clinical Immunology Group, Founder of The Gulf Academy of Allergy and Clinical Immunology (GA²CI)
These mentors will provide strategic guidance, oversight, and academic support to ensure sustainability and quality.
Junior Executive Committee
Dr. Fatemah AlYaqout
Kuwait
Dr. Shamsa Al Maawali
Oman
Dr. Hasina Al Bahri
Oman
Dr. Noorah Almulhem
KSA
Dr. Zainab Alsalloom
Bahrain