He becomes the second Fellow in this category at IFI, joining former AUB president Dr John Waterbury.

'We're privileged to have a scholar of the caliber, experience and reputation of Samir Makdisi associated with our institute, where he will contribute to ongoing public policy-related research programs while also mentoring younger scholars,' IFI director Rami G. Khouri said in announcing the appointment. 'The range of his experience, contacts and knowledge in political economy is unmatched in the Arab world, and his experience in developing research institutions and associations of research-oriented professionals will be especially valuable to us in our formative years.'

Samir Makdisi has long been one of the most distinguished members of AUB's faculty, and one of its most energetic institution builders.

He has chaired the department of Economics on several occasions, founded and directed the Institute of Financial Economics, and served for several years as AUB's deputy president during one of the most delicate and challenging periods in the University's history.

An internationally recognized scholar with an impressive body of publications, Professor Makdisi has developed a global reputation as a leading figure in the fields of Middle Eastern and development economics. He has been invited to lecture at universities around the world, and has also been repeatedly elected by his scholarly peers to positions in such distinguished associations as the Global Development Network and the Economic Research Forum for the Arab Countries, Iran and Turkey.

Professor Makdisi's latest research project includes directing studies by colleagues in academic institutions in the Arab World and abroad, exploring the linkages between democracy and development. Commenting on his appointment, Makdisi said, 'I am happy to be associated with the Issam Fares Institute and to contribute to its pioneering activities in the sphere of public policy.'

The Issam Fares Institute, which was established at AUB in 2006, conducts research on climate change and the environment, food systems, youth issues, Palestinian refugee camps, food systems, and the impact of research and think tanks on public policy-making.