FY2015 the 2^nd Leadership seminar was held successfully

The Phoenix Leader Education Program organizes yearly leadership seminars in order to allow program students the opportunity to consider future career possibilities following graduation. Lecturers and specialists who are at the forefront of their area of research, and in a position to act as role models are invited to present to the graduate students.

On November 12^th, during the 2^nd seminar of the year, Dr. May Abdel-Wahab, Director, Division of human health, International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), gave a lecture entitled “Leadership in an international organization”. There were 34 participants including 16 Phoenix program students, one student from the TAOYAKA program, and 14 teaching staff.

Dr. Abdel-Wahab drew on her experience as medical doctor and researcher to discuss what researchers should be and the desirable personality traits of a leader. She encouraged an active discussion with those in attendance. She mentioned in particular that building consensus among such a diverse team, including people from a variety of different backgrounds and cultures, represented a particularly important challenge one faced while working as a director within an international organization. On the other hand, she also stated that due to the nature of the organization, its projects and their role as scientists involved in policy making, they are in an excellent position to influence a wider range of people when compared with individual clinicians. Furthermore, at the IAEA staff are well supported with specialized training and generous benefits. It is an organization that provides women an excellent working environment to serve as leader.

Thus far eight students from the Phoenix program have completed either short or long-term internships at the IAEA. The seminar offered the opportunity for students still planning their IAEA internship to join in a constructive discussion. According to participants, Dr. Abdel-Wahab’s seminar was a meaningful opportunity to obtain a wide range of information, as well as hear the ideas and opinions of fellow participants.