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Prof. Marc Genton of KAUST has been appointed Editor-in-Chief of Stat, the ISI online journal for rapid dissemination of statistics research. His term will run from January 1, 2015, to December 31, 2017. Genton aims to maintain the journal's rapid publication speed and improve the quality of accepted papers. Why it matters: This appointment highlights KAUST's growing influence and expertise in statistical research on the international stage.
KAUST · · Research Partnership
A team from KAUST's Earth Science and Engineering program visited the site of the ongoing volcanic eruption in Iceland, which began in August 2014. Researchers monitored ground movements related to a collapsing structure near the eruption site using GPS instruments to measure vertical ground displacements. They aim to compare these measurements with satellite radar data to quantify volume changes before, during, and after the eruption. Why it matters: This study exemplifies the application of KAUST's earth science expertise to understanding and monitoring significant geological events, contributing to hazard assessment and risk management in volcanically active regions.
KAUST · · KAUST Entrepreneurship
Paul Thurk from ARCH Venture Partners spoke at KAUST about university spinouts. He advised students on forming startups, emphasizing the importance of credible endorsements, strong teams, and adaptable business plans. Thurk highlighted the need to anticipate market trends and set achievable milestones for fundraising. Why it matters: This talk provides insights into venture capital perspectives on academic entrepreneurship in Saudi Arabia, potentially guiding future tech transfer efforts at KAUST and similar institutions.
KAUST · · Partnership Research
KAUST, in collaboration with Saudi Aramco, hosted an Upstream Petroleum Symposium on November 13-14, gathering over 30 upstream specialists from academia and industry. The symposium focused on developments in fluid flow and recovery in hydrocarbon systems. Saudi Aramco's SVP highlighted the importance of upstream research advances to their vision of becoming a global integrated energy and chemicals company. Why it matters: This event strengthens ties between KAUST and Saudi Aramco, fostering collaborative research and innovation in the critical upstream petroleum sector for Saudi Arabia's energy future.
KAUST · · Research Partnership
KAUST Professor Wolfgang Heidrich received the Humboldt Research Award for his work in computational photography and displays. The award includes €60,000 and a research stay in Germany, hosted by the Max-Planck Institute for Informatics and the Cluster of Excellence on "Multimodal Computing and Interaction" at Saarland University. Heidrich plans to spend six months in Germany over the next three years, networking with faculty and collaborating on research projects. Why it matters: This award highlights KAUST's growing prominence in computer science and fosters international collaboration in cutting-edge areas like computational photography.
KAUST · · Partnership KAUST
The KAUST Graduate Student Council's IBR Committee hosted its first Alumni Panel during the fall 2014 Career Fair, in collaboration with KAUST's Career Development Office, Saudi Initiatives, and the Alumni Affairs Office. Six alumni working in Saudi Arabia, along with three via video, shared their experiences and insights with current students. Panelists emphasized the importance of creativity, passion, and utilizing KAUST's career resources to achieve successful employment. Why it matters: This event facilitated knowledge transfer and networking between KAUST alumni and students, promoting career development and in-Kingdom employment opportunities aligned with Saudi Arabia's Vision 2030 goals.
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.
Dr. Takashi Gojobori, a KAUST professor and expert in molecular evolution, received an honorary doctoral degree from National Cheng Kung University (NCKU) in Taiwan. The degree recognizes Gojobori's contributions to evolutionary genomics and molecular evolution. A KAUST delegation led by VP James A. Calvin attended the conferring ceremony. Why it matters: The recognition highlights KAUST's faculty quality and contributions to international research collaborations.
KAUST · · Research Healthcare
KAUST Discovery Professor Pierre Magistretti, Dean of KAUST's Biological and Environmental Science and Engineering Division, received an honorary membership from the Chinese Association for Physiological Sciences (CAPS). CAPS is a part of the China Association for Science and Technology, aiming to advance scientific progress and economic revitalization in China. Magistretti was recognized for his research on brain energy metabolism and the mechanisms regulating energy delivery to active neurons, with implications for functional brain imaging. Why it matters: This award highlights KAUST's growing international recognition and its faculty's contributions to fundamental research with potential applications in healthcare and neuroscience.
KAUST and TU Munich researchers have published a paper on a novel carbon capture technique. The technique focuses on converting CO2 directly from flue gas using catalytic systems, addressing the challenge of CO2 conversion requiring purification, compression, and high temperatures. Catalysts are often seen as viable green technology options to increase the renewable rates of CO2. Why it matters: This research has the potential to advance sustainable energy solutions by improving the efficiency and reducing the environmental costs associated with carbon capture and utilization.
KAUST · · Research Partnership
Professor Jean-Luc Bredas, Director of KAUST’s Solar Center (SPERC), has been elected to the European Academy of Sciences (EURASC). Bredas is recognized for his theoretical research into organic materials for semiconductor devices like LEDs, transistors, and solar cells. His KAUST group focuses on understanding the electronic and optical properties of these materials. Why it matters: This recognition highlights KAUST's growing prominence in advanced materials research and its contributions to global scientific advancements in electronics and photonics.
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.
A KAUST article highlights the threats to Saudi Arabia's coral reefs from pollution, rising ocean temperatures, and overfishing. Prof. Michael Berumen notes an imbalance with too many fish in markets and not enough on reefs, advocating for sustainable fishing. Saudi Arabia's reefs benefit from a relatively low population along the Red Sea coast and the absence of large river systems. Why it matters: Protecting these reefs is crucial for preserving marine biodiversity and ensuring the long-term health of Saudi Arabia's coastal ecosystems.
KAUST · · Research Partnership
KAUST and Saudi Aramco are hosting the Upstream Petroleum Symposium on November 13-14, focusing on fluid flow and recovery in hydrocarbon systems. The symposium will gather academics from KAUST, international universities, and Saudi Aramco experts. Discussions will cover challenges and opportunities for collaborative research to improve hydrocarbon recovery from conventional and unconventional reservoirs. Why it matters: The event highlights the ongoing importance of upstream petroleum research for meeting global energy demands and improving recovery methods, a critical area for Saudi Arabia's economy.
KAUST · · Research Healthcare
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 · · Entrepreneurship Innovation
KAUST's Entrepreneurship Center ran several programs during the Winter Enrichment Program (WEP) to promote an innovation culture within the university and in the wider ecosystem. The programs included Innovation, Creativity and Entrepreneurship (ICE) in the Desert, covering modern business practices, and the Accelerated Lean Launchpad. ICE featured classes on social entrepreneurship and starting community-oriented businesses. Why it matters: These programs aim to equip KAUST students with business skills to translate their research into impactful ventures, contributing to Saudi Arabia's innovation ecosystem.
KAUST researchers developed a laser-based sensor that exploits the "chirp" phenomenon in semiconductor lasers to accurately measure gas temperature in combustion systems. The sensor uses spectroscopic measurements at very fast rates (1.0 MHz) and can measure temperature at the nanosecond timescale at repetition rates of thousands of kHz. The new sensor reduces uncertainty compared to previous methods and works rapidly in transient shock tube experiments. Why it matters: This in-house development provides a non-invasive, accurate, and easily implementable system for combustion research, with implications for understanding and improving energy efficiency.
KAUST hosted the Falling Walls Lab, featuring 22 finalists presenting their product or venture ideas. The winner, Aftab Hussain, presented a reusable, flexible, and smartphone-controlled smart thermal patch for chronic pain, intended as an alternative to existing solutions. The event served as a qualifier for the international Falling Walls Lab Finale in Berlin. Why it matters: Showcases KAUST's focus on innovation and provides a platform for students to develop solutions addressing global challenges, fostering entrepreneurship in the region.
KAUST researchers at the Composite and Heterogeneous Materials Analysis and Simulation Laboratory (COHMAS) are developing new composite materials and computational models. The research focuses on ensuring the stability and service lifetime of composite structures used in aircraft, windmill blades, and industrial pipes. Professor Gilles Lubineau leads the group's work on computational modeling and experimental developments. Why it matters: This research aims to advance the use of composite materials in key sectors by addressing the challenge of long-term reliability, contributing to sustainability goals in energy, transportation and other industries.
KAUST · · Research Materials Science
KAUST researchers synthesized a novel copper-based metal-organic framework (MOF) called SIFSIX-3-Cu for selective CO2 adsorption. The new MOF is porous, moisture-resistant, inexpensive, and reusable, offering advantages over existing materials. Testing showed SIFSIX-3-Cu can efficiently remove CO2 from air, which is relevant for direct air capture (DAC) to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. Why it matters: This new MOF could significantly improve the efficiency and cost-effectiveness of CO2 capture technologies, contributing to global efforts to mitigate climate change.
KAUST · · Product Partnership
NOMADD, a KAUST startup, offers a waterless and remotely operated system to clean solar panels, addressing the challenge of dust accumulation which can reduce solar panel efficiency by 0.4-0.8% daily. KAUST recently signed its first royalty-bearing license agreement for the NOMADD system. The fifth version of the NOMADD system is 70% lighter and uses less than half the power of previous versions, while also being cheaper to manufacture. Why it matters: This technology is crucial for Saudi Arabia to achieve its ambitious goal of generating a third of its electricity from solar power by 2032, amidst the challenges posed by desert dust.
Professor Nikolaos Hadjichristidis of KAUST was honored with the 2015 ACS Award in Polymer Chemistry. Hadjichristidis joined KAUST in 2011 to build a world-class Polymer Synthesis Laboratory, focusing on the synthesis of model polymers with different macromolecular architectures. His research aims to improve industrial polymers and develop high-tech applications like nanolithography and drug delivery. Why it matters: This award recognizes the impact of KAUST's research in polymer science and its potential contributions to various fields, including water research, energy, environment, and food technology.
KAUST celebrated its 5th anniversary with an event highlighting contributions from students, scientists, and community members. The article shares reflections from early employees on the university's transformation from a desert vision into a global academic force. Employees highlight the university's impact on their careers, personal growth, and the broader community. Why it matters: KAUST's growth signifies the strategic investment in research and higher education within Saudi Arabia, contributing to its vision of becoming a knowledge-based economy.
KAUST · · Research Partnership
Professor Heribert Hirt has been appointed as the new Director of KAUST's Center for Desert Agriculture, succeeding Dr. Nina Fedoroff. Professor Mark Tester will assume the role of Associate Director, concentrating on desert agriculture and translational research. Dr. Salim Al-Babili will chair the newly established Plant Sciences program focusing on arid environments. Why it matters: These leadership changes signal KAUST's continued investment in agricultural research and development tailored to challenging desert conditions.
KAUST · · Research Healthcare
KAUST's Environmental Epigenetics Program (KEEP), led by Prof. Valerio Orlando, focuses on understanding how cells acquire and maintain memory, particularly in response to environmental factors. The research investigates the role of non-coding RNA and chromosomal components in regulating gene expression beyond the DNA sequence. Epigenetics explains how the same genome can be interpreted differently, allowing cells and organs to adapt to changing conditions. Why it matters: This research could provide insights into how environmental factors impact gene expression and cell function, potentially leading to advances in understanding and treating diseases.
KAUST marine scientists, led by Dr. Michael Berumen, tracked 47 whale sharks near Al-Lith in the Red Sea using satellite tags. The study, published in PLOS ONE, identifies the area as a significant nursery for the species. The research provides valuable insights into the movement patterns of whale sharks. Why it matters: Understanding these patterns is crucial for effective conservation efforts for this vulnerable species in the Red Sea.
KAUST · · Research Materials Science
KAUST researchers in the Functional Materials Design, Discovery & Development group have discovered a minimal edge transitive net with high connectivity. This net was used as a blueprint for the design and construction of metal-organic frameworks (MOFs). Specifically, a new rare earth nonanuclear carboxylate-based cluster was used as an 18-connected MBB to form gea-MOF-1. Why it matters: This work contributes to the advancement of solid-state materials design, which could have broad implications for energy and environmental sustainability in the region.
KAUST · · Research Partnership
Four students from the KAUST Gifted Student Program (KGSP) conducted summer research at KAUST in areas like solar cells, nanomaterials, composite membranes, and computational fluid mechanics. The students, who attend universities in the US, worked with KAUST faculty like Osman Bakr, Iman Roqan, Klaus-Viktor Peinemann and Ravi Samtaney. The KGSP program supports Saudi students studying science and engineering and prepares them for graduate studies at KAUST. Why it matters: This program helps KAUST attract top Saudi talent by providing research opportunities and encouraging students to pursue advanced degrees in STEM fields within the Kingdom.
KAUST researchers studied microplastic distribution in the open ocean during a recent expedition. They found microplastics everywhere but in 100 times lower quantities than expected based on production estimates. The study found larger plastic debris at expected levels, but smaller microplastics were disappearing, suggesting they are either sinking or entering the marine food chain. Why it matters: This research highlights the urgent need to understand the fate of microplastics in marine ecosystems and their potential impact on marine life and human health.
KAUST · · Research Partnership
KAUST Professor Dr. Bakr was elected as a member of the Arab-German Young Academy (AGYA). AGYA selects Arab and German researchers from universities and research institutions across the Middle East and Germany. The academy promotes cooperation between Arab and German researchers within the first 10 years of their Ph.D. Why it matters: This appointment fosters international research collaboration and provides a platform for interdisciplinary projects between Arab and German researchers.
KAUST · · Research Partnership
KAUST Discovery highlighted Prof. Karl Leo's insights on translating science into business from an Entrepreneurship Center speaker series. Prof. Leo, with 440 publications and 8 co-founded companies, emphasized the importance of curiosity-driven basic research. He envisions organic semiconductors dominating electronics in 20-30 years, noting the success of Novaled, his OLED company in Dresden. Why it matters: This underscores KAUST's focus on fostering entrepreneurship and translating research into practical applications within the Kingdom.
KAUST · · Research Healthcare
KAUST's Center for Desert Agriculture is holding an international conference on November 3-5, 2014, focusing on desert rhizosphere microbes for sustainable agriculture. Researchers aim to understand how plants survive in extreme conditions by studying microbes that help them tolerate heat, drought, and salt. They will explore genetic engineering and natural microbe usage to improve crop performance under heightened stress conditions. Why it matters: This research is critical for adapting agricultural systems to global warming and meeting future food production challenges in arid regions like the Middle East.
KAUST researchers and international collaborators tagged 15 Chilean devil rays in the Atlantic, revealing unexpected deep-diving behavior. The tags recorded dives reaching almost 2,000 meters at speeds of 6 meters per second and temperatures below 4 degrees Celsius. The rays exhibited two distinct diving patterns, including long periods at 1,000 meters and stepwise returns to the surface, possibly for thermoregulation. Why it matters: This research challenges previous assumptions about devil ray behavior and highlights KAUST's contribution to marine biology and understanding of ocean ecosystems.
KAUST · · Research Partnership
A KAUST team discovered a simple method to fabricate microspheres using block copolymer self-assembly. The resulting particles have pH-responsive gates and a highly porous structure, granting them ultrahigh protein sorption capacity. The team leveraged their expertise in block copolymers and self-assembly to achieve this. Why it matters: This new method and the resulting particles have potential applications in biotechnology, medicine, and catalysis, advancing materials science in the region.
KAUST · · Research Partnership
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 · · Partnership Education
KAUST held an alumni celebration in collaboration with Saudi Aramco to honor alumni achievements. Saudi Aramco emphasized its commitment to talent development as the largest employer of KAUST alumni. Dr. Jean-Lou Chameau encouraged alumni to contribute to society and advance KAUST as a hub of education and discovery. Why it matters: This event strengthens ties between KAUST and Saudi Aramco, highlighting KAUST's role in developing talent for the Kingdom's key industries.
KAUST · · Research Infrastructure
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.
Sonny Vu, CEO of Misfit Wearables, spoke at KAUST about the importance of design in technology and shared his entrepreneurial philosophy. He emphasized rapid prototyping, user feedback, and enjoyable user experiences, as seen in his previous company AgaMatrix and his wearable activity monitor, the Shine. Misfit Wearables successfully raised $100,000 through crowdfunding in just nine and a half hours. Why it matters: This highlights KAUST's role in fostering entrepreneurship and promoting innovative approaches to product development in the region, particularly in wearable technology.
KAUST · · Research Materials Science
KAUST Professor Nikos Hadjichristidis was selected as a 2014 POLY Fellow by the Polymer Chemistry Division of the American Chemical Society for his contributions to polymer science. With over 450 papers and 19 patents, his research focuses on synthesizing model polymers to improve polymer performance and design new materials. He aims to educate students, particularly Saudi students, and establish polymer science research at KAUST. Why it matters: This award highlights KAUST's growing prominence in materials science and its commitment to fostering local talent in advanced scientific fields.
KAUST · · Partnership Research
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 · · Research Materials Science
KAUST Discovery Professor Tao Wu's research focuses on oxide thin films and nanomaterials for applications in spintronics, nonvolatile memory, energy harvesting, and sensors. His group aims to develop oxide thin film heater structures by combining different materials at the unicell level to create new artificial materials. The main technical areas involve spintronics, electric field effect devices, and oxide solar cells, leveraging Saudi Arabia's abundant solar energy. Why it matters: This research could lead to next-generation electronic devices and solar cells using more stable and versatile oxide-based solutions, aligning with Saudi Arabia's renewable energy goals.
Staffan Landin's keynote at KAUST's Winter Enrichment Program 2014 highlighted the importance of data visualization for understanding global trends. He demonstrated how tools like Gapminder can transform public data into real-time animated visualizations, revealing insights into global development. Landin used data visualizations to challenge common misconceptions about developing countries and global issues. Why it matters: This underscores the role of data visualization in promoting informed decision-making and addressing critical challenges in the region and worldwide.
NYU Professor Michael Purugganan presented at KAUST's 2014 Winter Enrichment Program (WEP 2014) on the origins of crop species. He discussed how genome sequencing is improving our understanding of crop evolution, using date fruits collected in Jeddah as an example. His research on rice showed that two varieties, japonica and indica, share a single common ancestor, contrary to previous assumptions. Why it matters: Understanding crop evolution can help adapt crops to changing environments, which is crucial for food security in regions like the Middle East.
KAUST · · Healthcare Research
Dr. Ingo Potrykus, co-inventor of Golden Rice, discussed the potential of this genetically modified crop to combat vitamin A deficiency at KAUST's 2014 Winter Enrichment Program. Golden Rice, engineered to produce beta carotene, could prevent millions of deaths and cases of blindness annually in developing countries where rice is a staple. Regulatory hurdles for GMOs have stalled the distribution of Golden Rice, increasing development costs and delaying its availability to farmers. Why it matters: This highlights the potential of biotechnology developed and discussed in the GCC to address global health challenges, but also the regulatory and ethical considerations surrounding GMOs.
KAUST · · Research Materials Science
KAUST researchers have developed an enhanced hot-electron nanoscopy technique. The new method improves the resolution and sensitivity of mapping materials at the nanoscale. Why it matters: This advancement can accelerate materials science research and development in areas relevant to the GCC, such as sustainable energy and advanced manufacturing.
KAUST · · Partnership Research
KAUST and SABIC are collaborating on research in flexible electronics. The collaboration involves researchers from KAUST and SABIC's New Materials Solutions Group working together in KAUST labs. The research aims to develop innovations in new materials. Why it matters: This partnership highlights the increasing focus on materials science and advanced manufacturing within Saudi Arabia's research and development landscape.
KAUST · · Research 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.
KAUST professors Samir Hamdan and Nina Fedoroff collaborated on research published in Nucleic Acids Research focusing on microRNA (miRNA) biogenesis in plants. The study examined miRNA production in Arabidopsis thaliana and found that the protein SERRATE (SE) is integral to the processing of pri-miRNA by DCL1. They characterized the interactions of SE with RNA and DCL1, elucidating the mechanism by which SE promotes DCL1 activity. Why it matters: Understanding miRNA biogenesis could help modify crop plants to better tolerate stressful conditions, potentially increasing crop yields and productivity in the region.
KAUST · · Education Entrepreneurship
KAUST is offering a 16-month Master of Science degree in Technology Innovation and Entrepreneurship (TIE). The program includes a six-month internship at a Global Technology Innovation Hub. KAUST provides access to facilities like the Prototyping and Product Development Core Lab, robotics and embedded systems labs. Why it matters: The program aims to prepare students for roles in technology startups and established organizations within the rapidly growing Saudi innovation ecosystem.
Vaneet Aggarwal from Purdue University presented new research on discrete and continuous submodular bandits with full bandit feedback. The research introduces a framework transforming discrete offline approximation algorithms into sublinear α-regret methods using bandit feedback. Additionally, it introduces a unified approach for maximizing continuous DR-submodular functions, accommodating various settings and oracle access types. Why it matters: This research provides new methods for optimization under uncertainty, which is crucial for real-world AI applications in the region, such as resource allocation and automated decision-making.