Saudi Air Navigation Services (SANS) and KAUST have signed an MoU to collaborate on research, innovation, and advanced technology deployment in aviation. The partnership aims to leverage KAUST's AI and data analytics expertise to support SANS' digital transformation and the National Aviation Strategy. The collaboration will focus on developing data-driven solutions for air traffic management, operational efficiency, and national capability development. Why it matters: This MoU signifies a strategic alignment between academia and a key aviation sector player to advance technological capabilities and support Saudi Arabia's national transport and logistics strategy.
KAUST faculty member Marco Canini is researching networked systems, focusing on improving their design, implementation, and operation. His work centers on Software-Defined Advanced Networked and Distributed Systems (SANDS). Canini aims to address challenges related to reliability, performance, security, and energy efficiency in large-scale networked computer systems. Why it matters: This research contributes to the development of more dependable and efficient digital infrastructure in Saudi Arabia, aligning with KAUST's mission to advance science and technology.
The Cryptography Research Center (CRC) of the Technology Innovation Institute (TII) in Abu Dhabi is co-hosting the 21st Cryptology and Network Security Conference (CANS 2022) in cooperation with Springer, IACR, and NYU Abu Dhabi. The conference includes a workshop on AI and automation in cryptography and network security, with talks from experts like Claudia Diaz from Nym Technologies. Topics covered include post-quantum cryptography, blockchain security, and cryptanalysis techniques. Why it matters: This event highlights the UAE's growing role as a hub for cutting-edge research in cryptography and cybersecurity, fostering collaboration between academia and industry.
The Secure Systems Research Center (SSRC) has partnered with the University of New South Wales (UNSW Sydney) to research enhancements and scaling of the seL4 microkernel on edge devices. The collaboration aims to extend the seL4 microkernel to support dynamic virtualization, combining minimal trusted computing base with strong isolation. This will address challenges related to heterogeneous hardware, software, and environmental factors in edge computing. Why it matters: This partnership aims to improve the security of edge devices in critical sectors, addressing vulnerabilities in cyber-physical and autonomous systems.