Qana A. Al-Sulami, a KAUST chemical science Ph.D. graduate (2016), is now an assistant professor at King Abdulaziz University (KAU). She recalls her time at KAUST fondly, citing the state-of-the-art research environment and diverse community. Al-Sulami emphasizes the value of academic relationships fostered at KAUST and their impact on her career and contributions to the Ministry of Education. Why it matters: The article highlights KAUST's role in developing Saudi talent in STEM fields and fostering connections between KAUST alumni and Saudi institutions.
KAUST alumnus Chuan Xia (M.S. '14, Ph.D. '18) is now a postdoctoral fellow at Harvard, researching CO2 capture and conversion into valuable chemicals using renewable electricity. His Ph.D. research at KAUST, under Professor Husam Alshareef, focused on ternary metal sulfides and selenides for energy storage. Xia credits KAUST with providing training in communication, teamwork, and leadership that facilitated his transition to Harvard. Why it matters: The success of KAUST alumni in fields like sustainable energy highlights the university's growing role in addressing global challenges and fostering international research collaboration.
KAUST alumnus Hassan Al-Ismail (M.S. '14) leads a team at Saudi Aramco implementing vibrational wave modeling of 2D data. He returned to Saudi Arabia to work for Saudi Aramco after receiving his bachelor's degree and was later sponsored by the company to study at KAUST. Al-Ismail also emphasized the value of his time at KAUST for academic and personal growth. Why it matters: This highlights KAUST's role in developing talent for key industries in Saudi Arabia, particularly in areas relevant to energy and resource management.
KAUST alumnus Albara Alauhali (M.S. '11) is the executive advisor and director of strategic projects at the National Identity Enhancement Program, which is aligned with Saudi Vision 2030. Alauhali holds a master's degree in computer science from KAUST and a bachelor's degree in computer science from King Fahd University of Petroleum and Minerals. He has held positions at Saudi Aramco's King Abdulaziz Center for World Culture and the Ministry of Economy and Planning. Why it matters: This highlights the career path of a KAUST graduate contributing to Saudi Arabia's strategic national programs.
Dr. Paolo Sassone-Corsi from UC Irvine spoke at KAUST's 2019 Winter Enrichment Program about circadian rhythms. He discussed how modern lifestyles disrupt our internal clocks, impacting our health and metabolism. Studies show that the timing of food intake affects weight gain, with eating late at night causing metabolic stress. Why it matters: This highlights the importance of circadian rhythm research for understanding and mitigating the health consequences of modern lifestyles in the region.
Giulio Tononi, director of the Wisconsin Institute for Sleep and Consciousness, lectured at KAUST's 2019 Winter Enrichment Program on the topic of consciousness. He discussed how consciousness is not just about the environment, citing examples such as dreaming and brain activity in vegetative states. Tononi proposed five axioms to better understand consciousness: intrinsic existence, composition, information, integration, and exclusion. Why it matters: The lecture highlights KAUST's engagement with fundamental questions in neuroscience and cognitive science, showcasing the university's interdisciplinary approach to research.
American artist Rachel Sussman spoke at KAUST's 2019 Winter Enrichment Program about her project documenting the world's oldest living organisms. Sussman photographed 30 species alive for over 2,000 years, including trees, coral, and bacteria. She collaborated with 30 scientists to identify and document these organisms. Why it matters: The lecture highlights KAUST's interdisciplinary approach to knowledge, connecting art, science, and philosophy to explore concepts of time and longevity.
Science writer Dava Sobel spoke at KAUST in 2019 about the importance of longitude and precision timekeeping for navigation. She discussed the historical difficulties in determining longitude, contrasting it with the ease of finding latitude. Sobel highlighted the Longitude Act of 1714 and figures like John Harrison who addressed these challenges. Why it matters: This lecture exposed the KAUST community to the historical context of navigation and the crucial role of timekeeping, relevant to contemporary technologies like GPS.
John Ellis, a theoretical physicist from King's College London, spoke at KAUST's 2019 Winter Enrichment Program about understanding how the universe works. He discussed the Standard Model of particle physics, highlighting fundamental particles and forces. He emphasized the crucial role of the Higgs boson in enabling the formation of atoms and the possibility of life. Why it matters: Understanding fundamental physics is crucial for technological advancement and provides a deeper understanding of our place in the cosmos, inspiring future generations of scientists in the region.
Nobel laureate Dr. Michael Young from Rockefeller University presented his research on circadian rhythms at KAUST as part of the 2019 Winter Enrichment Program. His work on Drosophila genes has significantly advanced the understanding of circadian rhythm mechanisms. Young's research identified nine genes that regulate circadian rhythmicity at the molecular level, influencing thousands of gene expression patterns. Why it matters: This highlights KAUST's role in hosting leading international researchers and fostering scientific exchange on fundamental biological processes.
KAUST Ph.D. student Amal Mohammed Alamri was a finalist in the July 2018 IEEE nanoArt Competition, part of the 18th IEEE International Conference on Nanotechnology in Cork, Ireland. Her work, displayed at University College Cork and Crawford/CIT Gallery, involved stacking n-type MoS2 single crystal with p-type perovskite CH3NH3PbBr3 single crystal. Alamri's IEEE Nano paper entitled "Photonic Single Crystal Heterostructures based on Perovskites/Molybdenum disulfide" was also presented at the conference. Why it matters: This highlights KAUST's contribution to nanotechnology research and its students' participation in international scientific events.
KAUST celebrated its ninth Commencement ceremony on December 14, 2018, graduating 243 master's and Ph.D. candidates. The ceremony included the inauguration of KAUST’s third president, Dr. Tony Chan. KAUST also conferred its first honorary doctoral degree to HE Ali Ibrahim Al-Naimi, former chairman of the KAUST Board of Trustees. Why it matters: Showcases KAUST's continued growth as a leading research university in the region, developing local talent.
Dr. Gustav Paulay from the Florida Museum of Natural History spoke at KAUST in 2018 about the surprisingly low level of knowledge about marine biodiversity. He noted that only a fraction of the millions of marine species are currently known and described. Paulay highlighted the effectiveness of large-scale biodiversity surveys and the use of technology like mass sampling and DNA analysis to speed up species identification. Why it matters: Understanding and documenting marine biodiversity is crucial for conservation efforts and for leveraging the potential of marine resources in the Red Sea region and beyond.
Shark biologist Dr. Greg Skomal gave a keynote lecture at KAUST's Enrichment in the Fall 2018, discussing how little is known about sharks. Skomal highlighted that 49% of shark species are data deficient in basic information. He also discussed using acoustic tags and autonomous underwater vehicles (AUVs) like the REMUS SharkCam to study shark behavior. Why it matters: This highlights KAUST's role in hosting discussions on marine biology and the application of advanced technology in ecological research.
Lautaro Rayo, a KAUST alumnus with a master's degree in Earth science (2012), works as a petrophysicist at Saudi Aramco. He uses various tools and data analysis techniques to investigate potential oil and gas reservoirs in the Red Sea. Rayo was recruited by Aramco at KAUST's career fair and emphasizes the importance of analytical and research skills in his role. Why it matters: This highlights KAUST's role in supplying talent to key industries in Saudi Arabia and showcases the career paths available to its graduates.
KAUST alumnus Guy Olivier Ngongang Ndjawa (Ph.D. '16) is now a postdoctoral researcher at Princeton University, specializing in organic and polymer electronics. His Ph.D. research at KAUST focused on thin film organic solar cells, utilizing advanced vacuum processing and spectroscopy tools. He recalls being drawn to KAUST's vision and commitment to becoming a leading scientific research destination. Why it matters: This highlights KAUST's role in developing international scientific talent and contributing to advancements in renewable energy research.
KAUST Ph.D. student Matt Tietbohl attended the 11th International Conference on the Applications of Stable Isotope Techniques to Ecological Studies (IsoEcol) in Chile. Over 250 scientists from 34 countries participated in talks and workshops focused on stable isotope analysis in ecology. Researchers presented findings on diverse applications, from human nutrition to the origins of bodies at Stonehenge. Why it matters: Although not directly AI-related, KAUST's participation in international scientific conferences highlights its multidisciplinary research environment and global engagement.
KAUST alumnus Kareem Khalil, who graduated in 2012 with a master's in mechanical engineering, is now a senior engineer at the Yanbu National Petrochemical Company (Yansab), a SABIC affiliate. Khalil credits KAUST's strong reputation for giving him an edge over colleagues. He advises students to fully enjoy KAUST's environment and research opportunities. Why it matters: This highlights KAUST's role in supplying skilled professionals to key industries in Saudi Arabia, particularly in the petrochemical sector, and its importance in Saudi Arabia's economic diversification.
Ghada Ahmed, a fourth-year Ph.D. student at KAUST's Solar Center, researches semiconductor nanocrystals under the supervision of Assistant Professor Omar Mohammed. Her work focuses on the colloidal synthesis of quantum dots and nanocrystals with controlled sizes and shapes. She aims to understand photogenerated charge carrier dynamics and reaction mechanisms to optimize energy-efficient devices. Why it matters: This research contributes to advancements in materials science and renewable energy technologies within the Kingdom.
KAUST held its ninth academic Convocation ceremony on September 4, welcoming a new cohort of master's and Ph.D. students, half of whom are international and over a third female. President Tony Chan addressed the students, emphasizing the university's vision, while student speaker Kenneth Langley encouraged collaboration. Faculty speaker J. Carlos Santamarina highlighted the importance of connections within the research community. Why it matters: As KAUST grows, these events are vital for shaping a collaborative environment and promoting the university's strategic vision for research and education in Saudi Arabia.
KAUST alumnus William Bass (M.S. ’12, bioscience) worked for Saudi Aramco after graduating from the University. He worked in Aramco's Marine Protection Unit on infrastructure, research and biodiversity enhancement projects. In 2018, Bass left Aramco and is now running for U.S. Congress as an independent. Why it matters: This highlights KAUST's role in developing talent that contributes to both Saudi Arabia's industries and global leadership.
Three KAUST students attended the 5th International Marine Conservation Congress in Malaysia, which brought together over 650 attendees. The conference focused on translating marine conservation science into real action, with participants discussing topics like the impact of above-water marine species and sustainable fishing practices. KAUST students presented their work and shared insights from the event. Why it matters: This participation highlights KAUST's commitment to addressing critical ocean conservation challenges and fostering international collaboration in marine science.
KAUST alumna Samah Mohamed (Ph.D. '18, chemical engineering) specialized in combustion research at the Clean Combustion Research Center. She chose KAUST for its resources and expert faculty in engineering thermodynamics and chemical reactions. Mohamed aims to continue in academia and scientific research, as well as return to teaching. Why it matters: KAUST's focus on attracting and developing regional talent in strategically important fields like clean combustion could help address environmental challenges in Saudi Arabia and the broader Middle East.
The KAUST Amateur Astronomy Association (AAA), led by Ph.D. student Daniel Corzo, uses telescopes to observe the night sky. The group organizes events to view celestial objects like Saturn and the Milky Way from locations with low light pollution. Corzo's interest in astronomy was sparked by visits to NASA's Johnson Space Center and science fiction literature. Why it matters: Such initiatives promote scientific curiosity and engagement within the KAUST community, potentially inspiring further interest in STEM fields in Saudi Arabia.
Four Saudi students mentored by KAUST Professor Kuo-Wei Huang won one silver and three bronze medals at the 50th International Chemistry Olympiad (IChO 2018) in Prague. Bader Almulhim won a silver medal, while Abdulrahman Aledrees, Ali Alasmari and Osama Alali won bronze. Almulhim and Alasmari were accepted to the KAUST Gifted Student Program (KGSP) and will study in the U.S. Why it matters: This highlights KAUST's role in nurturing scientific talent and promoting STEM education in Saudi Arabia, though the direct AI relevance is limited.
The KAUST Saudi Arabian Alumni Chapter met to discuss future plans, with a focus on increasing engagement and creating a 'Community for Life'. The chapter caters to M.S. and Ph.D. graduates living and working in Saudi Arabia, representing around 51% of the total alumni. Key initiatives include leveraging the online network Rapport and organizing on-campus and regional meetings. Why it matters: Strengthening alumni networks is crucial for KAUST's long-term growth and influence within Saudi Arabia's evolving research and technology landscape.
Nawaf Alghamdi, a KAUST M.S./Ph.D. student in chemical engineering, researches catalysis for upgrading low-value feedstocks. He was awarded a Grants Program for Universities and Research Centers (GPURC) grant from KACST and won first place at the Middle Eastern Process Engineering Conference & Exhibition technical debates. Alghamdi aims to use his time at KAUST to grow both personally and professionally, and to build a competitive research portfolio. Why it matters: Showcases KAUST's support for student research and highlights opportunities for students in science and engineering.
Isabelle Schulz, a postdoctoral fellow at KAUST's Red Sea Research Center (RSRC), was visited by her parents who drove over 9,000 kilometers from Germany to Saudi Arabia. Schulz's connection to the region dates back to her childhood in Riyadh and Algeria, where her father worked. She later joined KAUST after completing her Ph.D. in marine biology in Germany, inspired by her experiences in North Africa and the Middle East. Why it matters: This human interest story highlights KAUST's international environment and its appeal to researchers with roots in the Middle East.
KAUST Professor Valerio Orlando from the Biological and Environmental Science and Engineering division has been named the chair of the Enrichment Programs for 2019. He will oversee the 10th Winter Enrichment Program (WEP) running from January 13 to 26, 2019, and related satellite programs. The Enrichment Programs aim to foster a lively atmosphere and bring the KAUST community together with international guests. Why it matters: While routine, the announcement highlights KAUST's ongoing efforts to enrich its academic environment through diverse programs and international collaborations.
Ivan Gromicho, a scientific illustrator at KAUST, creates visual representations of complex research findings for journals like Cell, Nature, and Science. He collaborates with KAUST faculty to transform data into comprehensible illustrations. Outside of work, Gromicho pursues rock climbing, exploring natural rock formations across Saudi Arabia. Why it matters: This highlights KAUST's support for interdisciplinary pursuits and employee well-being, fostering innovation at the intersection of science and art.
KAUST Ph.D. student Mousa Alharthi studies membrane desalination technologies and is also a cycling enthusiast. Alharthi translated Arabic language advertisements for cycling races in Jeddah for his English-speaking colleagues in the Red Sea Cyclists group. The Saudi Cycling Federation began holding amateur events in the Kingdom in 2017 to develop young Saudi talent and generate awareness about cycling. Why it matters: This highlights KAUST's role in supporting not only scientific research but also promoting sports and healthy lifestyles in line with Saudi Vision 2030.
Fethi Khaled, a mechanical engineering Ph.D. student at KAUST's Clean Combustion Research Center (CCRC), is researching fuel combustion with a focus on cleaner, safer, and more efficient energy sources. His work in the Chemical Kinetics and Laser Sensors Laboratory under Professor Aamir Farooq involves studying the science of combustion and different energy sources like fossil and solar energy. Khaled aims to contribute to inventing new combustion engine modes that are more efficient and produce less or zero pollutants. Why it matters: This research aligns with Saudi Arabia's broader goals of promoting sustainable energy solutions and reducing reliance on traditional fossil fuels, contributing to environmental sustainability and economic diversification.
Janet Kelso from the Max Planck Institute and Sudhir Kumar from Temple University discussed evolutionary biology in a KAUST Facebook Live interview. Kelso's research focuses on interactions between modern humans and Neanderthals, finding similarities in DNA and benefits for environmental adaptation. Kumar's work, highly cited, involves big data analyses in evolutionary biology. Why it matters: The interview highlights KAUST's engagement with international experts in bioinformatics and evolutionary biology, promoting interdisciplinary research and knowledge dissemination.
KAUST research photographer Anastasia Khrenova designed a scientific art display for the 2018 Winter Enrichment Program (WEP). The "Visualizing the Human Machine Future" exhibition showcased photographs and scientific illustrations from KAUST laboratories. The exhibit aimed to communicate science nonverbally and provide viewers with a glimpse into the university's research activities. Why it matters: Such initiatives help promote scientific research to the public and attract potential researchers to KAUST, fostering a greater understanding and appreciation of scientific endeavors in the region.
Joanna Nassar, a KAUST alumna (Ph.D. '17, M.S. '13) in electrical engineering, is now a postdoctoral fellow at Caltech in the Department of Medical Engineering. Nassar credits KAUST's facilities and research opportunities for helping her achieve her goals and grow academically. Her research focuses on developing affordable and accessible wearable and implantable electronics for preventive disease detection. Why it matters: This highlights KAUST's role in training researchers who are contributing to advancements in healthcare technology.
KAUST alumnus Imran Ansari, who graduated in 2015 with a Ph.D. in electrical engineering, is now a senior lecturer at the Global College of Engineering and Technology in Muscat, Oman. He specializes in optical wireless communications, contributing to 5G and beyond technologies. Ansari emphasizes the importance of utilizing the resources and opportunities available at KAUST for personal and academic growth. Why it matters: This highlights the career paths and contributions of KAUST graduates to regional technology and education sectors.
Wanfang Chen and Yuxiao Li, a married couple, came to KAUST in August 2016 to pursue Ph.D. studies in statistics under the supervision of Distinguished Professor Marc Genton and Professor Ying Sun respectively. Prior to KAUST, they obtained degrees from the Beijing Institute of Technology, with Chen also attending Xiamen University and Li attending the University of California, Irvine. Both students have completed their first academic papers and have submitted the papers to journals. Why it matters: This highlights KAUST's ability to attract international talent in STEM fields, contributing to its research output and global reputation.
Dr. Yves Agid from the ICM Paris Institute of Translational Neuroscience lectured at KAUST's 2018 Winter Enrichment Program about the role of glial cells in brain function and behavior. He highlighted that glial cells, often overlooked in research, are crucial for neural synchronization and overall intelligence. Dysfunction of glial cells can induce pathologies like Alzheimer's and Parkinson's disease. Why it matters: The lecture underscored the importance of studying glial cells in addition to neurons for understanding and treating neurodegenerative disorders, which could influence future research directions at KAUST and in the region.
The Saudi Research Science Institute (SRSI) at KAUST has selected 43 top 11th-grade students from across Saudi Arabia for its 2018 program. These students will conduct summer research under the guidance of KAUST faculty. The program aims to give them a taste of life as a scientist. Why it matters: SRSI cultivates future Saudi talent in STEM fields, aligning with Saudi Arabia's goals of developing its scientific workforce.
Altynay Kaidarova, a Ph.D. student in electrical engineering at KAUST, researches magnetic microsystems for biology and medicine under Professor Jürgen Kosel. Her group's work focuses on areas like cancer cell destruction, drug delivery, and smart nanoprobes. Kaidarova chose KAUST for its research activity, global thought leaders, and diversity. Why it matters: Highlighting student research helps promote KAUST's capabilities in advanced biomedical applications of micro and nanotechnology.
Dr. Leslie Dewan, co-founder and CEO of Transatomic, spoke at KAUST's Winter Enrichment Program about next-generation sustainable nuclear power plants. Dewan advocates for both nuclear and renewable energy to meet energy demands. She believes her company's new reactor design, which uses better fuel and reduces nuclear waste, is ideal for countries with rising power demands like Saudi Arabia. Why it matters: This highlights KAUST's engagement with innovative energy solutions and their potential relevance to Saudi Arabia's future energy strategy.
Dr. Jeffrey Schnapp from Harvard University discussed the shift from mobility to movability and human-centric autonomy in robotics at KAUST's 2018 Winter Enrichment Program. He presented Gita, a cargo robot designed to move like humans and support pedestrian lifestyles. Piaggio Fast Forward, Schnapp's company, aims to create robots that coexist with humans and enhance the quality of life in pedestrian-friendly environments. Why it matters: This highlights KAUST's engagement with innovative robotics research and its focus on exploring human-robot interaction for future urban development in Saudi Arabia.
Todd Nims, a filmmaker born in Saudi Arabia, premiered his film "Joud" at KAUST's 2018 Winter Enrichment Program. The film, set in Saudi Arabia, explores the cycle of life in reverse and the meaning of "Joud" (generosity in the face of scarcity). Nims describes Saudi Arabia as a "magical place" due to its rich storytelling tradition. Why it matters: The article highlights KAUST's role in showcasing cultural works and supporting Saudi artists, though the AI relevance is limited.
Students and teachers from Thuwal schools visited KAUST for computer-oriented activities on February 7. The activities included a practical computer coding lesson inspired by "Hour of Code," where participants used Mac computers to work through an online tutorial. Students and teachers also toured the supercomputing facilities in the KAUST Core Labs led by Bilel Hadri of the ECRC. Why it matters: Such outreach programs help promote STEM education and engagement with advanced computing resources among local students.
Dinorath Olvera Ramos, a 2011 KAUST Chemical and Biological Engineering alumna, describes her time at KAUST as enlightening and enriching. She is currently completing her Ph.D. at Trinity College Dublin, focusing on biomaterials and tissue regeneration. Prior to KAUST, she studied at the Monterrey Institute of Technology in Mexico. Why it matters: This alumni profile highlights KAUST's role in fostering international research collaborations and talent in bioengineering, contributing to advancements in regenerative medicine.
Zesheng Dong, a KAUST alumnus with a master's degree in chemical science (2011), is working as a chemical scientist at SABIC since 2011. At SABIC, he provides analytical support to improve the accuracy and efficiency of the company's research. Dong advises current KAUST students to study and do research wholeheartedly. Why it matters: The success of KAUST alumni in key Saudi industries like SABIC highlights the university's role in developing talent for the Kingdom's economic diversification goals.
Munther Dahleh, director at the MIT Institute for Data, Systems, and Society (IDSS), discussed his group's research on network systems at the KAUST 2018 Winter Enrichment Program. The research focuses on the fragility of large networked systems, like highway systems, in response to disruptions that may lead to catastrophic failures. Dahleh's team studies transportation networks, electrical grids, and financial markets to understand system interconnection in causing systemic risk. Why it matters: Understanding networked systems is crucial for building resilient infrastructure and mitigating risks in critical sectors across the GCC region.
Dr. David Edwards from Harvard University spoke at KAUST about creativity in innovative communities. He believes that we are at the dawn of a grassroots renaissance in the arts, sciences and engineering. Edwards highlighted the importance of learning, experimentation, and production centers in fostering innovation. Why it matters: This talk suggests KAUST is looking to foster a cross-disciplinary culture of innovation, aligning with broader trends in AI and technology development that require diverse skill sets.
Shozo Yokoyama, a biology professor at Emory University specializing in color vision evolution, was interviewed by KAUST. Yokoyama's lab identified amino acids regulating red-green and UV vision in vertebrates. He emphasizes the importance of young scientists developing fresh perspectives on evolution and learning directly from animals. Why it matters: While not directly an AI story, the piece highlights KAUST's broader research focus and its investment in attracting and showcasing international scientific expertise, relevant to building a strong research ecosystem.
Chess grandmaster Susan Polgar visited KAUST during the 2018 Winter Enrichment Program and played a simultaneous chess exhibition with 10 KAUST Chess Club members, winning against all of them. Polgar also delivered a lecture on how AI has transformed the chess world, referencing the 1997 IBM supercomputer victory over Garry Kasparov. She expressed being impressed by KAUST's facilities and the resources available to faculty and students. Why it matters: This event highlights KAUST's engagement with AI-related topics beyond traditional research, showcasing the university as a hub for diverse intellectual discussions.