Entrepreneur Alexandru Ionut Budisteanu spoke at KAUST's 2018 Winter Enrichment Program (WEP) about pursuing one's passion to achieve their dreams. Budisteanu shared his journey of creating video games and building an autonomous self-driving car prototype. He emphasized the importance of finding a job or activity that one loves and working with passion. Why it matters: Showcases KAUST's efforts to host inspiring speakers and promote entrepreneurship among students.
Margaret Livingstone, a neurobiology professor at Harvard Medical School, lectured at KAUST's Winter Enrichment Program 2018 on how art can reveal insights into the human brain. She discussed how artists have long understood the independent roles of color and luminance in visual perception. Livingstone highlighted examples from Picasso, Monet, and Warhol to illustrate how artists manipulate visual cues. Why it matters: This interdisciplinary approach can potentially lead to new understandings of how the brain processes visual information and inform advances in both neuroscience and art.
Gaurav Agarwal, a statistics Ph.D. student in the Environmental Statistics Group at KAUST, is researching statistical methods with environmental applications, such as understanding salt tolerance in plants. He is developing a user-friendly web application to make these methods accessible to those with limited statistical backgrounds. Agarwal also focuses on data visualization and outlier detection techniques for quality control of radiosonde wind data. Why it matters: This research contributes to environmental science by providing accessible statistical tools and methods for analyzing complex environmental data, potentially aiding in addressing challenges like plant resilience and climate monitoring.
KAUST students and postdoctoral fellows organized the Red Sea Research Center Open Science Conference in late October 2017, featuring international speakers and attendees. The conference included a workshop on job opportunities within Saudi Arabia, with panelists discussing how students can improve their job prospects. Organizers emphasized the importance of formalized hierarchy, leadership, and accountability for future events. Why it matters: This highlights KAUST's commitment to student-led initiatives and career development within the Kingdom's growing research and innovation ecosystem.
Planetary scientist Carolyn Porco, who led the imaging science team for the Cassini mission to Saturn, was a keynote speaker at KAUST's 2018 Winter Enrichment Program. Porco aimed to recreate the Pale Blue Dot photograph of Earth taken by Voyager 1. On July 19, 2013, Cassini's cameras captured another Pale Blue Dot image of Earth when Saturn eclipsed the Sun. Why it matters: The event fostered contemplation on Earth's place in the universe among the KAUST community.
Fahad Alsherehey, VP at SABIC, spoke at KAUST's Winter Enrichment Program (WEP) about authentic leadership. He cited SABIC's founding as an example of how leadership can turn challenges into opportunities. Alsherehey emphasized the difference between leadership and management, advocating for listening to one's team. Why it matters: The talk highlights the importance of leadership and vision in driving technological and economic development in Saudi Arabia.
Klemens Katterbauer, a KAUST alumnus with a Ph.D. in Earth Science and Engineering (2015), is now an IT Infrastructure Manager at XXX Lutz, focusing on supply chain optimization in Eastern Europe, the Middle East, and Asia-Pacific. His research at KAUST involved developing advanced methods for reservoir engineering. Katterbauer credits KAUST's facilities, faculty, and collaborative environment for his academic success and high-quality research publications. Why it matters: This highlights KAUST's role in producing versatile graduates who can apply their skills across diverse industries beyond the oil and gas sector.
Oscar Becerril Lio, a KAUST alumnus who graduated in 2011 with a master's degree in applied mathematics specializing in operations research, is now an operations manager in Mexico. He leverages his KAUST experience in industrial engineering, construction, operations research, optimization, and logistics. Lio advises current KAUST students to learn from the diverse community and take advantage of travel opportunities. Why it matters: This alumni profile showcases KAUST's role in developing professionals who contribute to diverse industries and geographies, highlighting the university's global impact.
Lea Sublett, Manager of KAUST Alumni Affairs, developed a love for travel and diverse cultures through her upbringing. She initially pursued journalism but found herself working in alumni relations at universities, including five Australian universities before KAUST. Sublett's career has allowed her to meet alumni worldwide and learn about their experiences. Why it matters: This profile highlights the international and diverse community fostered by KAUST, emphasizing the importance of cultural exchange and global engagement in its mission.
KAUST's Interim President Nadhmi Al-Nasr addressed the graduating class of 2017, emphasizing their potential in science and technology. He thanked the Board of Trustees, industry partners, faculty, and staff for their support. The commencement speaker was KAUST’s former president, Dr. Jean-Lou Chameau, who was lauded for advancing KAUST's reputation and fostering collaboration. Why it matters: While routine, the remarks highlight KAUST's ongoing commitment to developing scientific talent and fostering partnerships within the Kingdom.
KAUST celebrated its eighth Commencement ceremony on December 15, 2017, with 110 master’s degree and 76 Ph.D. graduates. Interim President Nadhmi Al-Nasr presided over the ceremony, with speeches from Hassan Alsibyani and former KAUST President Dr. Jean-Lou Chameau. Chameau encouraged graduates to uphold the values learned at KAUST and strive to have an impact with integrity. Why it matters: Showcases KAUST's role in developing a new generation of scientists and engineers in Saudi Arabia.
Noura Shehab, a KAUST environmental engineering Ph.D. graduate (2014), now works as a material science researcher at RPD Innovations. Her research focuses on microbial electrochemical technologies and sustainable solutions for water scarcity. Shehab led a KAUST team in the Hult Prize in 2013 and is the incoming KAUST Saudi Arabian alumni chapter president. Why it matters: The profile highlights KAUST's role in developing scientific talent and fostering innovation in sustainable technologies relevant to Saudi Arabia.
KAUST held its second annual "Science as Art" competition, sponsored by the KAUST student chapter of the Materials Research Society (MRS). Over 25 KAUST students and postdoctoral fellows participated, showcasing artistic research images from their lab work. The competition aimed to bridge the gap between the scientific community and the general public by presenting science from an artistic point of view. Why it matters: Such initiatives at KAUST can foster interdisciplinary thinking and enhance public engagement with science and technology in Saudi Arabia.
KAUST held its Eighth Annual Fall Career Fair on October 26, with representatives from the KAUST Discovery Company engaging with students. An alumni panel featured Mona Alsomali (DOW), Hussain Shibli (KAA-CARE), and Mustafa Mousa (Sadeem) offering career insights. Hussain Shibli, director general at King Abdullah City for Atomic and Renewable Energy, also participated in the alumni panel. Why it matters: The career fair and alumni engagement highlight KAUST's efforts to connect students with industry opportunities and support career development in Saudi Arabia.
KAUST alumnus Jagdish Chandra Vyas (Ph.D. '17) received a Student Presentation Award at the 2017 Seismological Society of America Annual Meeting for his poster "Mach Wave Coherence in the Presence of Source and Medium Heterogeneity." Vyas's Ph.D. research at KAUST, under Professor Martin Mai, focused on the effects of rupture complexity and heterogeneities in Earth structure on ground motions. Currently a postdoctoral scholar at the University of Canterbury, New Zealand, Vyas credits KAUST's academic environment and facilities for nurturing his research and scientific growth. Why it matters: This award recognizes the high-caliber research conducted at KAUST and highlights the university's contribution to the field of seismology.
Michael Hickner, an Associate Professor from Penn State University, visited KAUST as part of the CRDF-KAUST-OSR Visiting Scholar Fellowship Program. Hickner specializes in Materials Science and Engineering, Chemistry, and Chemical Engineering. The visit was documented with photos by Meres J. Weche. Why it matters: Such programs foster international collaboration and knowledge exchange in science and engineering between KAUST and other leading institutions.
Julian Bleecker from the Near Future Laboratory spoke at KAUST about "design fiction," a storytelling method presenting possible near-future prototypes. Bleecker's lab uses design, prototyping, and designed science fiction to explore futures and reveal hidden insights. He highlighted how design fiction, like in "Jurassic Park," can blur the line between reality and possibility, prompting discussions about the feasibility of futuristic concepts. Why it matters: This highlights KAUST's engagement with speculative design and its role in fostering innovative thinking about future technologies and their societal implications within the region.
Lockheed Martin's CTO, Dr. Dana Jackson, spoke at KAUST about the company's collaborative R&D goals. He cited the Apollo 11 moon landing as a major inspiration for his career in science and technology. The lecture took place on the KAUST campus on October 22. Why it matters: Such talks can foster collaboration between industry leaders like Lockheed Martin and academic institutions like KAUST, potentially catalyzing innovation in Saudi Arabia.
KAUST provided school supplies to students in the villages of Thuwal and Qadimah. This was part of the KAUST Sixth Annual Back to School Campaign held in September. The supplies were given to students in University's neighboring villages. Why it matters: This demonstrates KAUST's commitment to supporting education and community development in its surrounding areas.
This article describes KAUST's participation in the American Chemical Society (ACS) event in Washington, D.C. in August. KAUST's team engaged with conference attendees at their booth. The article includes photos from the event. Why it matters: This highlights KAUST's efforts to engage with the international scientific community and promote its research and programs.
Canadian inventor Ann Makosinski spoke at KAUST about innovation and problem-solving during the Enrichment in the Fall keynote lecture. She addressed the KAUST community, sharing insights on STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics). The event was attended by KAUST leadership, including the Enrichment Chair and Vice President for Academic Affairs. Why it matters: Such events foster a culture of innovation and interdisciplinary collaboration within Saudi Arabia's leading STEM university.
KAUST Ph.D. student Mohammad Shaqura was a finalist for the Best Student Paper Award at the IEEE International Conference. The award is from the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers. The conference and award recognize outstanding contributions from student researchers in electrical and electronics engineering. Why it matters: This recognition highlights the growing talent pool and research capabilities in engineering fields at KAUST.
Chuan Xia, a Ph.D. student at KAUST, won the best poster award at the International Conference on Materials for Advanced Technologies (ICMAT) 2017. The poster's topic is not specified in the provided text. Why it matters: Recognition at ICMAT highlights KAUST's contributions to materials science and engineering.
KAUST PhD student Zahra Al-Saffar won first prize for her poster presentation at the 52nd European Marine Biology Symposium (EMBS) in Piran, Slovenia in September 2017. Her research was presented in poster format. The symposium focuses on marine biology research. Why it matters: This award recognizes promising research by a KAUST student in the field of marine biology.
KAUST Ph.D. student Sofya Mudrova won the best poster award at the 4th International Congress on Invertebrate Morphology (ICIM4) in Moscow. The poster was in the biology domain. The award recognizes research presented at the conference. Why it matters: Showcases KAUST's strength in attracting and developing talent in interdisciplinary research areas.
KAUST Professor of Electrical Engineering, Boon Ooi, has been elected as a Fellow of the Optical Society of America (OSA). Ooi is a professor in the Computer, Electrical and Mathematical Sciences and Engineering Division at KAUST. The fellowship recognizes his contributions to the field of optical engineering. Why it matters: This recognition highlights KAUST's growing prominence in optics and photonics research and boosts its reputation as a leading STEM institution in the Middle East.
Mani Sarathy, an associate professor of chemical engineering, has been appointed Associate Director of the Clean Combustion Research Center (CCRC) at KAUST. Sarathy is part of the University’s Physical Science and Engineering Division. The announcement did not detail specific research directions. Why it matters: This signals KAUST's continued investment in and focus on clean combustion research.
KAUST held its eighth Academic Convocation, featuring speakers including Ph.D. student Samah Mohamed and professor Jeff Shamma. Mohamed encouraged students to focus on developing skills and pursuing their passions at KAUST. Shamma noted KAUST's reputation for research excellence despite its young age. Why it matters: The event highlights KAUST's continued focus on graduate education and research impact within Saudi Arabia.
KAUST's Core Labs has launched a Machinist Apprenticeship Development Program. The program aims to train machinists. No further details about the program are provided in the announcement. Why it matters: This apprenticeship program could help develop skilled technical talent in Saudi Arabia, contributing to the Kingdom's technology and manufacturing sectors.
KAUST Discovery Associate Professor Ying Wu has been recognized by the International Phononics Society. The announcement highlights Wu's affiliation with King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST). Why it matters: This recognition brings further visibility to KAUST's faculty and research programs.
Mona Alsomali, who graduated from KAUST in 2016 with a Ph.D. in bioscience-microbial genomics, is now a senior microbiologist. She is currently employed at the Dow Middle East Innovation Center (MEIC)/KAUST. The center is located at KAUST. Why it matters: This highlights KAUST's role in producing skilled graduates who contribute to scientific innovation in the region.
ANSYS, Saudi Aramco, and KAUST have achieved a new supercomputing milestone, though specific details about the achievement are not provided in the content. The announcement references KAUST Discovery. The mention of King Abdullah suggests a connection to the university's founding. Why it matters: Such milestones could enhance research capabilities and innovation in the region, particularly in areas relevant to Saudi Aramco's interests.
Students from the KAUST School volunteered to assemble gift boxes for families in Thuwal as part of the "Sharing is Caring" campaign. The activity was organized to celebrate Eid. Why it matters: This highlights community engagement by a leading STEM university in Saudi Arabia.
KAUST celebrated its Spring 2017 graduation, adding 75 new alumni to bring the total alumni community to 1,350. Graduates were encouraged to stay connected with KAUST and participate in alumni activities. Several graduates shared positive reflections on their experiences at KAUST and its impact on their academic and career paths. Why it matters: This event highlights KAUST's continued role in developing talent and contributing to research and innovation within Saudi Arabia.
Ahmed Sultan Salem, a visiting associate professor of electrical engineering, received the 2017 KAUST Distinguished Teaching Award. Salem was one of six finalists nominated for the inaugural award and has been with KAUST since 2011. He teaches a range of EE and applied mathematics courses and his research interests include energy harvesting and cognitive radio technology. Why it matters: Recognizing teaching excellence can help incentivize high-quality education and mentorship in technical fields crucial for advancing Saudi Arabia's research and development goals.
Dr. Eric Fossum, professor at Dartmouth and inventor of CMOS active pixel image sensors, spoke at KAUST's 2017 Enrichment in the Spring Program. The lecture focused on how to be a successful scientist-entrepreneur. He received a gift from the KAUST Enrichment Programs team. Why it matters: This highlights KAUST's efforts to engage with leading international experts to foster innovation and entrepreneurship among its researchers and students.
British author and explorer Alastair Humphreys visited KAUST as part of the Enrichment in the Spring program. Humphreys, known for trekking across the Empty Quarter, shared his adventures with the KAUST community. The event aimed to bring a sense of adventure to the university. Why it matters: Such events enhance the cultural and intellectual environment at KAUST, fostering a broader perspective among students and faculty.
KAUST held a Bay Area alumni dinner in San Francisco. This was the first of a series of planned events for KAUST alumni. The event aimed to connect KAUST graduates in the Bay Area. Why it matters: Building alumni networks can strengthen KAUST's reputation and facilitate collaborations with international tech hubs.
The KAUST Industry Advisory Board (KIAB) met on March 1 and 2 at KAUST. Executive-level representatives discussed the latest research activities at the University. The discussions focused on aligning KAUST's research with industry needs. Why it matters: Such meetings can foster collaboration and ensure KAUST's research remains relevant to Saudi Arabia's economic development goals.
Marco Canini is an assistant professor of computer science at KAUST in the Computer, Electrical and Mathematical Science and Engineering Division. He is highlighted in a faculty focus piece by KAUST Discovery. Why it matters: Showcases talent at KAUST.
This article reflects on Theo Jansen's visit to KAUST during the 2017 Winter Enrichment Program. It mentions the upcoming Spring Enrichment Program at KAUST. The piece includes a photograph of King Abdullah bin Abdulaziz Al Saud. Why it matters: Such programs foster innovation and collaboration within the KAUST community.
Dominik Michels is an assistant professor of computer science at KAUST. He is part of the Computer, Electrical and Mathematical Science and Engineering Division. Why it matters: This highlights KAUST's continued investment in attracting international faculty to strengthen its research programs.
Antonio Adamo is an assistant professor of bioscience in the Biological and Environmental Science and Engineering Division at KAUST. He is highlighted in a KAUST faculty focus. Why it matters: Showcases KAUST's faculty expertise in bioscience.
The 2017 KAUST Research Conference focused on new combustion concepts, bringing together experts from academia, national labs, and industry. Participants discussed various aspects of combustion, including energy conversion by Professor Igor Adamovich from Ohio State University. Anne Bourdon from École Polytechnique presented on plasma-assisted applications. Why it matters: The conference facilitated knowledge exchange and collaboration on advancing combustion technologies, a field relevant to energy and environmental sustainability in the region.
Cindy Catherine Orozco Bohorquez, who completed her M.S. degree at KAUST in 2014, is now a second-year Ph.D. student at Stanford University. She is an alumna of King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST). Why it matters: This highlights KAUST's role in nurturing talent that goes on to pursue advanced studies at top global universities.
KAUST hosted the Advanced Membranes and Porous Materials Center Research Conference from February 20-23. The conference focused on new materials for energy-intensive industrial separations. Experts, students, and researchers participated in presentations and poster sessions. Why it matters: Conferences like this promote collaboration and knowledge sharing in materials science, which is crucial for developing sustainable technologies in energy and other sectors within Saudi Arabia.
KAUST and Dow Chemical Company organized a STEAM innovation challenge for over 150 university students from the Jeddah area. The event took place on the KAUST campus from January 19-21. Participants engaged in activities related to Science, Technology, Engineering, Art, and Mathematics. Why it matters: Such initiatives promote local talent and innovation in STEM fields, aligning with Saudi Arabia's Vision 2030 goals for a diversified, knowledge-based economy.
KAUST held an international research conference on environmental epigenetics in 2017. The conference included presentations by Professor Paolo Sassone-Corsi from the University of California, Irvine. Participants also included KAUST Professor Valerio Orlando, Emiliana Borrelli, Ueli Grossniklaus and Juan Carlos Belmonte. Why it matters: KAUST is positioning itself as a research hub for advanced bioscience.
KAUST hosted the KAUST-NSF Research Conference on Interactive Electronics from January 30 to February 1. The conference featured speakers from Purdue University, Cornell University, and Saudi Aramco's EXPEC Advanced Research Center. Attendees from around the world gathered at KAUST for the event. Why it matters: The conference highlights KAUST's role as a hub for international collaboration and knowledge sharing in advanced electronics research within Saudi Arabia.
KAUST held an Engineering Forum event on January 23. The event recognized members of the Technical Committee for their support in completing KAUST standards. No further details about the content of the forum are provided. Why it matters: Such events likely contribute to the development of engineering expertise and standards within Saudi Arabia.