PhD researcher Omaymah Ali Yousef Al-Mashaleh receives prestigious 2026 DAAD Award

Constructor University PhD researcher Omaymah Ali Yousef Al-Mashaleh has been awarded the 2026 DAAD (German Academic Exchange Service) prize in recognition of her exceptional academic achievement and outstanding social and intercultural commitment. The prestigious honor and accompanying €1,000 prize have been awarded annually since 2003 to one international student from each German university who best exemplifies excellence both in and out of the classroom. Al-Mashaleh was presented with the 2026 DAAD prize at Constructor University's Annual Opening Ceremony on September 1.

Al-Mashaleh is pursuing a PhD in Information Systems and Management, after completing a Master's of Science in Computer Engineering at the German Jordanian University in Amman, Jordan. Since coming to Constructor University, she has authored or co-authored more than 10 peer-reviewed scientific publications, including articles in high-impact journals and presentations at international conferences. Her interdisciplinary research spans business analytics, digital marketing, customer behavior analysis, machine learning, and social media analytics.  

“Receiving the DAAD Prize is a great honor and a very meaningful recognition of my academic journey at Constructor University," said Al-Mashaleh in response to her win.

"As an international PhD researcher from Jordan, my experience at Constructor University has given me valuable opportunities to learn, collaborate, and grow both academically and personally. This recognition gives me even greater motivation to continue advancing my research, contributing to the academic community, and building meaningful connections across institutions, disciplines, and cultures.”  

Al-Mashaleh has actively promoted intercultural dialogue through her role as a Student Ambassador, and organizes "Data for Good" meet-ups that connect international students with local NGOs. Previously, through her involvement with the EDU-SYRIA project, she contributed to expanding access to higher education for Syrian refugees and vulnerable Jordanian students.

Her nomination for the DAAD Prize came from Constructor University Professor of Industrial Engineering Dr. Omid Fatahi Valilai, who lauded the strength of Al-Mashaleh's prolific research contributions, innovative teaching approaches, and exemplary role as a cultural mediator within the international student community. "Omaymah best demonstrates the successful academic achievement and high level of social and intercultural commitment that the DAAD seeks to honor with this award," said Professor Valilai. "She serves as a cultural mediator, facilitating dialogue and mutual understanding across diverse cultural backgrounds."

Constructor University extends its heartfelt congratulations to Omaymah Ali Yousef Al-Mashaleh on this major milestone and wishes her continued success in both academic and community endeavors.