Originally from Irbid, Jordan, Nayef Saleh Al Gharaibeh graduated from the University of Iowa in 1988 with his Ph.D. in physiology and biophysics. He returned to his home country where he currently teaches physiology at the Jordan University of Science and Technology (JUST), and has also held positions as the chairman of the Department of Physiology and Biochemistry, director of the JUST Health Center, and the vice dean of the Faculty of Medicine.

In addition to his work at JUST, Gharaibeh has served as the founding dean of the Faculty of Medicine at both Mo”ta University and Al Hashymite University in Jordan, as well as president of Jarash University.

During his time at the University of Iowa, his favorite place on campus was the Bowen Science Building, where he spent many hours studying and doing research. Gharaibeh loved the harmonious relationships that existed between faculty members and students, and attributes his success to Michael Jennings and Kevin Campbell, whom he said were both efficient in teaching and in research. He also enjoyed socializing with friends at Hawkeye Court student housing.

“The University of Iowa was the beginning of my successful future, and Iowa City was a place to grow for my children,” he said.

Virtual Homecoming is a chance to share memories from your time at the UI and reconnect with your alma mater, regardless of where you are in the world. During International Education Week 2016 (Nov. 14-18), we will be sharing some of these alumni stories.