Baker Hughes has donated JewelSuite™ reservoir modeling software to KAUST to enhance teaching, learning, and research. The software simplifies modeling and streamlines the building of accurate 3-D reservoir models. It will enable students and faculty to gain a clearer picture of the subsurface and predict oil or gas deposits. Why it matters: This donation will help KAUST train future leaders in the petroleum engineering industry and advance research in reservoir modeling.
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.
KAUST and Thermo Fisher Scientific launched an Electron Microscopy Center of Excellence on May 9. The Center expands the existing partnership between KAUST and Thermo Fisher, focusing on instrument performance and R&D collaboration. It features the FEI Titan Themis Z scanning transmission electron microscope, the first installation globally. Why it matters: The center will provide advanced materials science research capabilities to KAUST researchers, industry partners, and Saudi Arabia, enhancing scientific discovery and technological advancement in the region.
KAUST's Water Desalination and Reuse Center (WDRC) held a research conference on wastewater treatment from March 27-29. The conference covered innovations in technologies and microbes to recover resources from wastewater. Keynote speakers included Bruce Rittmann, Bruce Logan, and Jurg Keller, with topics ranging from microbial fuel cells to microalgal biotechnology. Why it matters: The event highlights KAUST's focus on sustainable technologies for water management, addressing critical resource challenges in arid regions.
KAUST Professor Hong Im has been inducted into the National Academy of Engineering of Korea (NAEK) as an international member. He was selected for his contributions to the theory and computational modeling of combustion, specifically direct numerical simulations (DNS) of turbulent combustion. Since 2013, he has been a core faculty member of the Clean Combustion Research Center (CCRC) at KAUST. Why it matters: This recognition highlights KAUST's role in attracting and fostering world-class engineering talent and its contributions to advanced power generation research.
This article discusses KAUST's efforts to build a high-performance computing (HPC) ecosystem. It mentions Jysoo Lee, director of the KAUST Supercomputing Core Lab, and Robert G. Voigt from the Krell Institute, both speakers at the HPC Saudi event held at KAUST. The article also acknowledges King Abdullah's role in establishing KAUST. Why it matters: HPC is crucial for advancing AI research and development in the region, and KAUST is playing a key role in fostering this ecosystem.
A KAUST article highlights the role of supercomputers like Shaheen in enhancing industrial competitiveness. Jean Tachiji, Cray Manager in the Middle East, Steven Scott, Cray CTO, and Saber Feki from KAUST Supercomputing Core Laboratory are featured in front of Shaheen. Why it matters: This underscores the strategic importance of high-performance computing for research and development in the region.
KAUST's Supercomputing Core Lab (KSL) aims to advance science and technology through HPC solutions. The article highlights the lab's mission to inspire scientific, economic, and social progress. It mentions KAUST Ph.D. students and computational scientists at the SC16 supercomputing conference. Why it matters: This showcases KAUST's commitment to high-performance computing and its role in driving innovation in the region.
Saudi Aramco and KAUST broke ground on December 16 for a new research center. The center's focus and planned capabilities were not disclosed in the provided text. Why it matters: This signals continued investment in research infrastructure within Saudi Arabia, although details are currently limited.
KAUST and FEI (likely referring to FEI Company, now part of Thermo Fisher Scientific) have established a new Center of Excellence. The center will be located at the KAUST Research & Technology Park on the KAUST campus. Why it matters: This partnership enhances KAUST's research capabilities and fosters innovation in science and technology within Saudi Arabia.
KAUST held its second hackathon and third NVIDIA workshop. Attendees listened to lectures from international experts. Participants worked on porting their scientific applications to a GPU accelerator. Why it matters: Such events help build regional expertise in accelerated computing and attract international collaboration.
A hybrid desalination pilot plant combining adsorption and multi-effect distillation cycles is under construction at KAUST. The integration aims to improve water production yields by up to three times using the same heat resource. The project is funded by a 2013 OCRF grant and builds upon previous research with a solar-powered adsorption pilot plant. Why it matters: This initiative advances sustainable desalination technologies, crucial for water security in arid regions like Saudi Arabia.
KAUST researchers have developed a saliva-powered microbial fuel cell (MFC) that generates electricity using electrogenic bacteria to consume waste and release electrons. The micro-MFC uses graphene as an anode and an air cathode, achieving high current densities (1190 A m-3). The MFC produced 40 times more power than through the use of a carbon cloth anode. Why it matters: This technology offers a novel way to power lab-on-chip or portable diagnostic devices, particularly in remote or dangerous areas, and may offer alternatives to energy-intensive water purification technologies.
KAUST's Shaheen XC40 supercomputer was ranked as the seventh fastest globally on the TOP500 list in July 2015, achieving over 5.5 petaflops per second using nearly 200,000 processing cores. The system includes 17.6 petabytes of storage and 790 terabytes of memory, succeeding the previous Shaheen Blue Gene/P system. Saudi institutions like KFUPM, KSU, Saudi Aramco and SABIC leverage KAUST's supercomputing for research and development. Why it matters: This ranking highlights KAUST's commitment to providing high-performance computing resources in Saudi Arabia, supporting the nation's transition to a knowledge-based economy and advancing research across various sectors.
KAUST's New Energy Oasis (NEO) hosted an open day on May 7 to showcase its renewable energy technologies. The event featured guided tours of the NEO site, where 11 international technology providers are testing renewable energy solutions. The technologies on display included photovoltaic (PV), concentrating solar power (CSP), and dust mitigation technologies. Why it matters: This initiative helps identify and implement the most appropriate renewable energy technologies for Saudi Arabia, addressing the Kingdom's growing energy demands.
KAUST Professor Boon Ooi, Nobel laureate Shuji Nakamura from UCSB, and KACST researchers are collaborating on laser-based solid-state lighting (SSL) through a 2014 tripartite agreement. Their research focuses on SSL, which has the potential to be even more energy-efficient than existing LED lighting by using semiconductor lasers. Nakamura, who won the Nobel Prize in Physics in 2014 for developing blue LEDs, spoke at KAUST about the potential of SSL to improve energy efficiency further. Why it matters: This collaboration aims to advance energy-efficient lighting technologies, leveraging Nobel-winning expertise to develop solutions that could significantly reduce global energy consumption.
KAUST hosted the "Human-Machine Networks and Intelligent Infrastructures" conference, co-organized by Prof. Jeff Shamma and Asst. Prof. Meriem Laleg. The conference explored the blend of engineered devices and human elements in large-scale systems like smart grids. Keynote speaker Dr. Pramod Khargonekar discussed cyber-physical-social systems and emerging trends. Why it matters: The conference highlights the growing importance of understanding the interplay between AI, infrastructure, and human behavior in the development of smart cities and intelligent systems in the region.
Siemens CTO Rainer Speh spoke at KAUST about smart cities, noting that urban populations are growing, especially in cities like Riyadh and Jeddah. Cities consume two-thirds of the world's energy and generate 70% of CO2 emissions. Siemens is working on a driverless subway system in Riyadh as part of its smart city initiatives. Why it matters: Smart city initiatives are crucial for managing resources and reducing emissions in rapidly growing urban centers in Saudi Arabia.
Dow Chemical Company signed an agreement with KAUST to expand its facilities at the KAUST Research & Technology Park by constructing a new 13,500 sqm Dow Middle East Research and Development (R&D) Center. Construction, led by KAUST and designed to meet LEED silver certification, was set to begin by the end of 2015 and accommodate up to 75 Dow R&D employees. The facility will house advanced labs for water treatment research and expand capabilities in oil and gas, construction, and coatings. Why it matters: This expansion underscores the commitment to regional innovation and developing science-based solutions for challenges related to water, energy, and infrastructure in the Middle East.
KAUST has inaugurated the Computational Bioscience Research Center. The inauguration included a two-day symposium. Why it matters: This new center will likely boost computational biology research and applications in the region.
KAUST acquired the Shaheen-Cray XC40 supercomputer in 2015, which is 25 times faster than its predecessor, Shaheen I. The system arrived in Jeddah from Chicago in 123 crates and weighs around 109 metric tons. It consists of approximately 6,100 nodes, with each node containing 32 cores. Why it matters: This infrastructure upgrade significantly enhances KAUST's capacity for data-intensive scientific tasks like simulations and modeling, crucial for advancing research in areas such as climate and renewable energy.
KAUST's Supercomputing Laboratory and NVIDIA co-hosted the "Accelerating Scientific Applications Using GPUs" workshop, attended by 120 participants. The event included technical sessions, guest lectures from KAUST faculty and NVIDIA, and presentations on KAUST applications developed on NVIDIA GPUs. KAUST also held its first hackathon, where teams ported scientific applications to GPU accelerators with guidance from KAUST and NVIDIA mentors. Why it matters: This collaboration strengthens KAUST's position as a hub for high-performance computing and GPU-accelerated research in the region, fostering talent development and collaboration with industry partners.
KAUST's Clean Combustion Research Center (CCRC) is expanding its Cloudflame database, a platform providing computational tools and scientific data for combustion research. Cloudflame offers features like flame speed calculations, ignition delay simulation, and a Fuel Design Tool to formulate fuel mixtures. The platform allows researchers to compare findings, perform computations remotely, and receive results via email. Why it matters: Cloudflame fosters global collaborations and accelerates advancements in clean combustion technologies, crucial for energy saving and environmental conservation in the region and worldwide.
Jean-Luc Bredas, Director of KAUST's Solar and Photovoltaics Engineering Research Center (SPERC), recounts his academic journey from Belgium to the U.S. and then to Saudi Arabia. He highlights his prior involvement with KAUST through a research collaboration starting in 2008 and a visiting professorship at King Abdulaziz University (KAU) in 2011. Bredas was drawn to KAUST due to its flexible system and resources for faculty research. Why it matters: This showcases KAUST's ability to attract established international researchers to contribute to its research ecosystem, particularly in renewable energy.
A KAUST student blog post discusses optical wireless communications (OWC) as a solution to radio frequency exhaustion. OWC uses optical frequencies to carry electrical signals, offering advantages like high data rates and immunity to electromagnetic interference. Free-space optical (FSO) communication, a type of OWC, is applicable for inter-building connections and has seen use cases such as broadcasting during the 2010 FIFA World Cup. Why it matters: OWC research and deployment in the region can support high-bandwidth applications and provide cost-effective connectivity solutions, especially in challenging environments or disaster scenarios.
A KAUST project on "Hybrid Multi-Effect Adsorption Desalination" won the Global Technology Challenge at the Saudi Water & Power Forum. The competition, launched by Aramco Entrepreneurship and GE ecomagination, focused on seawater desalination using renewable energy. KAUST's Water Desalination and Reuse Center (WDRC) is partnering with the National University of Singapore (NUS) to bring this technology to Saudi Arabia. Why it matters: This award highlights innovation in desalination, a critical area for Saudi Arabia given its high salinity seawater and need for sustainable water solutions.
KAUST reflected on its research achievements during its fifth anniversary year, highlighting the inaugurations of the Clean Combustion Research Center (CCRC) and the Solar & Photovoltaics Engineering Research Center. KAUST also signed a memorandum of understanding with the Centre for Solar Energy and Hydrogen Research Baden-Württemberg (ZSW) to develop thin-film photovoltaic technology. Several new directors were appointed for KAUST research centers, including the Extreme Computing Research Center (ECRC). Why it matters: These strategic investments in research centers and partnerships underscore KAUST's commitment to advancing scientific discovery and technological innovation in Saudi Arabia, particularly in areas like clean energy, agriculture, and computing.
A KAUST team led by Prof. Hussain published a paper in ACS Nano detailing their use of industry-compatible processes to create a flexible transistor with a bending radius of 0.5 mm. The transistor is constructed from a monocrystalline silicon-based substrate and uses a process that does not degrade device performance. The team's approach uses a network of trenches/holes and a back-etch process to create flexible electronics without compromising cost, yield, performance, and efficiency. Why it matters: This research paves the way for high-performance, portable electronics using silicon, a material already widely used in the electronics industry.
KAUST has appointed Professor TorOve Leiknes as the new director of the Water Desalination and Reuse Center (WDRC). Leiknes, who joined KAUST in 2013, previously served as the center's interim director since June 2014. He brings expertise in wastewater treatment and reuse, including energy-saving membrane bioreactors, and has held leadership roles in the European Membrane Society. Why it matters: This appointment highlights KAUST's ongoing commitment to addressing water scarcity challenges through research and innovation in desalination and water reuse technologies.
KAUST researchers collaborated on a study in Iceland that found a correlation between changes in groundwater composition and earthquakes greater than magnitude 5. The study, published in Nature Geoscience, observed variations in dissolved element concentrations and stable isotopes prior to seismic events in 2012 and 2013. Earthquake prediction remains a challenge with differing views among scientists about its feasibility. Why it matters: Understanding earthquake precursors could lead to improved risk mitigation strategies for urban infrastructure in seismically active regions across the Middle East.
KAUST Discovery Associate Professor Stefan Arold has established KAUST's first structural biology lab specializing in determining the atomic 3D structure of proteins and other biological macromolecules. The lab setup involved challenges such as assembling instruments and continuing research, but the Bioscience Core Lab at KAUST and support from colleagues aided in the process. Arold's research focuses on understanding protein function through an integrated 'hybrid' approach to analyze 3D structure and function of proteins. Why it matters: This new lab enhances KAUST's capabilities in molecular biophysics and structural biology, enabling advanced research into the functions of proteins and their implications for health and disease.
KAUST researchers are developing low-cost, mobile wireless sensors for smart city applications, focusing on flood monitoring. These sensors are designed to be deployed by UAVs and float in water, transmitting data to map flood extent. The system uses "Lagrangian sensing" to gather information from remote locations with minimal infrastructure. Why it matters: This technology offers a cost-effective solution for environmental monitoring and disaster management, particularly relevant for flood-prone areas in Saudi Arabia.
KAUST scientists are developing models to predict extreme weather events like the 2009 Jeddah flood, which caused significant damage. Prof. Ibrahim Hoteit's team is using data from satellites, international sources, and local entities like PME and the Jeddah Municipality to build high-resolution models. The aim is to improve predictions of extreme rain events by one or two days and issue timely warnings. Why it matters: Improving extreme weather prediction is crucial for mitigating the impact of climate change in vulnerable regions like the GCC.
Boeing has inaugurated a new Research & Technology office at KAUST's Research and Technology Park, marking Boeing's first research center in a university within the GCC. The office will focus on R&D in aerospace technologies, building on Boeing's partnership with KAUST since 2009. Boeing is currently collaborating with KAUST on six major projects in areas like advanced materials and solar power. Why it matters: The establishment of this office signifies a deepened commitment to R&D in Saudi Arabia and the region, leveraging KAUST's resources to advance aerospace technologies.
KAUST has acquired a BM Pro plasma-enhanced chemical vapor deposition (PE-CVD) reactor from AIXTRON for wafer-scale deposition of graphene and carbon nanotubes. The reactor, capable of handling up to 4-inch substrates, will be used by Professor Pedro Da Costa's research team initially, before being opened up to other researchers at KAUST. AIXTRON's VP highlighted the system's uniformity, scalability, rapid heating, and plasma-based processing for growing graphene and nanotubes. Why it matters: This advanced tool enhances KAUST's research capabilities in carbon nanostructures, positioning the university as a leading center for materials science and nanotechnology research in the region.
KAUST researchers have developed a dual-use wireless sensor system that monitors both traffic congestion and flood incidents in cities. The system combines ultrasonic range finders and infrared thermal sensors to provide real-time, accurate data on traffic flow and roadway flooding. Data is sent to central servers and assimilated with satellite data to form real-time maps and forecasts. Why it matters: This technology can provide up-to-the-minute warnings for flash floods and traffic, enabling rapid emergency response and potentially saving lives in urban environments.
KAUST's Technology Transfer and Innovation (TTI) department has facilitated the release of KUBE, an open-source benchmarking framework developed by Craig Kapfer and his team. KUBE allows users to analyze the performance of software applications and high-performance computing (HPC) systems over time, using user-defined metrics. The software integrates with batch scheduling tools and provides historical time reporting and visualization capabilities. Why it matters: This release provides a valuable tool for optimizing applications and systems, potentially enhancing research and development in computational labs and computing centers in Saudi Arabia and beyond.
KAUST researchers used electron tomography and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy to study charge storage in manganese oxide electrodes for supercapacitors. They found that the electrolyte etches nanoscale openings in the manganese oxide sheets, increasing electrolyte permeability and energy density during cycling. 3D tomography revealed how the electrode's morphological evolution increases its surface area, enhancing energy densities. Why it matters: The research provides insights into improving the cycling stability of pseudocapacitive materials, which are crucial for developing high-performance supercapacitors.
KAUST's Water Desalination and Reuse Center (WDRC) pioneers industry partnerships through its Center Industry Affiliates Program (CIAP). The program aligns industry interests with KAUST's research in desalination, wastewater reuse, new materials, hydrologic systems, and sustainable water technologies. Pilot plants enable intermediate-scale research and long-term assessments, bridging the gap between bench-scale testing and industrial implementation. Why it matters: This applied research model strengthens KAUST's impact on water sustainability challenges in Saudi Arabia and beyond.
KAUST's Solar & Photovoltaics Engineering Research Center (SPERC) was officially inaugurated with a two-day seminar featuring international solar energy experts. The event included discussions on developing the solar energy manufacturing industry in Saudi Arabia and a memorandum of understanding between KAUST and the Centre for Solar Energy and Hydrogen Research Baden-Württemberg (ZSW) to develop thin-film photovoltaic technology. ZSW holds the world record in thin-film photovoltaics cells efficiency, achieving a rate of 20.8%. Why it matters: This initiative signifies KAUST's commitment to becoming a regional hub for renewable energy and photovoltaics, fostering collaboration between research and industry to advance solar energy development in Saudi Arabia.
The Centre for Solar Energy and Hydrogen Research Baden-Württemberg (ZSW) and King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST) have signed a memorandum of understanding. The collaboration focuses on thin-film photovoltaic technology. Why it matters: The partnership between a leading German research institution and KAUST could accelerate advancements in solar energy research and deployment within Saudi Arabia.
KAUST has inaugurated its Clean Combustion Research Center (CCRC), five years after its initial planning. The center is composed of seven faculty members and a team of eighty people, focusing on combustion research to address future energy and environmental challenges. CCRC has already attracted industrial funding from companies like Saudi Aramco. Why it matters: The center will provide a boost to research and development in sustainable energy and reduced emissions technologies within Saudi Arabia and the broader region.
Prof. Karl Leo has been appointed as the Director of KAUST's Solar and Photovoltaics Engineering Research Center (SPERC). He joins KAUST from Technische Universität in Dresden, bringing expertise in organic semiconductors and photovoltaics. His research aims to improve the efficiency and lifetime of organic solar cells, with a goal of reaching 20% efficiency. Why it matters: This appointment strengthens KAUST's solar energy research program and aligns with Saudi Arabia's focus on renewable energy technologies.
KAUST Seed Fund announced the four winning teams from its 2013 Fall Round, including Falcon Viz (3D aerial scanning), Nano Assembly (quantum dot production), ROFix (desalination plant performance), and u. The Seed Fund has funded 21 projects in its first six rounds, creating three companies and 15 jobs. Barig Siraj noted KAUST's leadership in commercializing ideas in Saudi Arabia. Why it matters: The KAUST Seed Fund plays a vital role in fostering entrepreneurship and technological innovation within Saudi Arabia, addressing critical needs in areas like desalination and infrastructure.
KAUST faculty profile highlights Dr. Omar Abdelsaboor, Assistant Professor of Chemical Science, who specializes in ultrafast laser spectroscopy and 4D electron imaging. His research focuses on visualizing chemical reactions and developing highly-efficient solar cells using advanced techniques. Dr. Abdelsaboor aims to contribute to solar energy research in Saudi Arabia and is collaborating with other KAUST faculty. Why it matters: This underscores KAUST's investment in cutting-edge research and its commitment to advancing renewable energy technologies in the region.
Khalifa University has announced the accreditation of new PhD programs across various disciplines within its College of Computing and Mathematical Sciences and College of Engineering and Physical Sciences. These programs include Computer & Information Engineering, Computer Science, Robotics, Mathematics, Materials Science & Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Nuclear Engineering, Petroleum Engineering, and Physics. The university aims to provide an environment where researchers can transform ideas into innovative technological solutions with real-world impact. Why it matters: The expansion of advanced graduate programs at a leading UAE institution strengthens the region's research capabilities and talent pipeline in critical scientific and engineering fields.
Khalifa University has announced the accreditation of several new PhD programs within its colleges. These include programs in Computer & Information Engineering, Computer Science, Robotics, and Mathematics, offered by the College of Computing and Mathematical Sciences. The College of Engineering and Physical Sciences also launched new PhDs in Materials Science & Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Nuclear Engineering, Petroleum Engineering, and Physics. Why it matters: This expansion of advanced academic offerings strengthens the UAE's research capabilities and talent pipeline in critical scientific and engineering fields, including AI-relevant areas like computer science and robotics.
Khalifa University has announced the accreditation of new PhD programs, including Computer & Information Engineering, Computer Science, Robotics, and Mathematics. These advanced programs are designed to provide researchers with an ideal environment to transform ideas into innovative technological solutions with real-world impact. Dr. Sami Muhaidat, Acting Dean of the College of Computing and Mathematical Sciences, highlighted these new offerings. Why it matters: Expanding doctoral programs in key technological fields like AI and Robotics signals a commitment to developing local research talent and contributing to the UAE's knowledge economy.
Khalifa University's "KU Pulse" podcast released an episode featuring Dr. Jamal Alsawalhi discussing the challenges and solutions for decarbonizing the transport sector. The discussion covers critical issues such as battery costs, charging infrastructure, supply chain realities, and public perception impacting EV adoption. The episode also highlights emerging technologies being developed at Khalifa University, including rare earth-free motors and wireless charging systems for electric vehicles. Why it matters: This podcast episode showcases Khalifa University's active research and thought leadership in sustainable transport solutions, which are crucial for the UAE and the broader region's decarbonization efforts.
Khalifa University's KU Pulse podcast features Dr. Jamal Alsawalhi and Dr. Glenda El Gamal discussing obstacles to decarbonizing the transport sector. The discussion covers battery costs, charging infrastructure, supply chain challenges, and public perception. It also highlights emerging KU technologies like rare earth free motors and wireless charging. Why it matters: The podcast addresses critical issues in sustainable transportation, showcasing KU's research contributions to regional and global environmental challenges.