KAUST researchers demonstrated that Beneficial Microorganisms for Corals (BMC) can help corals recover from thermal stress by stimulating immune processes and rebuilding their microbiome. The study, published in Science Advances, showed that probiotic treatments can protect bleached corals from death. The research was conducted at the Federal University of Rio de Janeiro (UFRJ) and the KAUST Red Sea Research Center, with funding from the Great Barrier Reef Foundation and the Tiffany & Co Foundation. Why it matters: This finding offers a promising solution for mitigating the impacts of climate change on coral reefs, which are vital ecosystems facing increasing threats from warming ocean temperatures.
Researchers from KAUST and University of Toronto have created a two-sided perovskite/silicon tandem solar cell that exceeds the performance limits for tandem configurations. The bifacial design captures both direct sunlight and light reflected from the ground (albedo). Outdoor testing demonstrated efficiencies beyond commercial silicon solar panels. Why it matters: This innovation promises ultra-high power generation at affordable costs, potentially revolutionizing the photovoltaics market in the region and globally.
A KAUST-led team used acoustic technology and net sampling to explore ocean depths in 146 locations worldwide. They found that the biomass of pelagic organisms in the deep sea is much larger than previously thought, especially below productive waters. Deep-sea fauna migrates to shallower areas to feed, transporting carbon to the deep sea. Why it matters: This suggests the ocean's carbon pump is more effective than previously understood, with implications for climate change mitigation strategies.
A KAUST-led study tracked coral grouper movements in Australia's Great Barrier Reef over 20 years. Researchers genotyped thousands of coral grouper to map larval dispersal patterns from no-take zones. They found that no-take zones ensure a consistent supply of fish stocks, benefiting both conservation and fisheries. Why it matters: The study demonstrates the value of marine protected areas for biodiversity and fisheries management, providing insights for effective reserve design.
A collaborative research team including KAUST scientists has located a major sink for missing ocean plastic in coastal sediments and mangrove forests of the Red Sea and Arabian Gulf. Core samples showed a pattern of plastic sedimentation aligning with the history of global plastic production since the 1950s. Mangroves efficiently lock up microplastics in coastal soil, with plastic burial rates increasing similarly to global production. Why it matters: The findings highlight the critical role of mangroves in trapping plastic pollution and provide evidence that plastic sedimentation marks the start of a new geological epoch, the Anthropocene.
KAUST and SABB will award 10 million SAR to entrepreneurs in the fourth TAQADAM Startup Accelerator program, doubling the zero-equity grants from previous years to 150,000 SAR per startup. 59 startups across sectors like agriculture, logistics, and healthcare have joined the cohort. Participating startups will receive expert mentorship and training, industry exposure, and funding to invest in growth and development without sacrificing equity. Why it matters: This increased funding and support from KAUST and SABB signals a strong commitment to fostering a thriving deep-tech startup ecosystem in Saudi Arabia, providing crucial resources and mentorship to promising ventures.
Red Sea Farms, a KAUST startup, is advancing its saltwater greenhouse technology with a new 21,000 square foot pilot facility at the KAUST Research & Technology Park. Their greenhouse technology allows for growing crops on marginal land, using 90% less freshwater than traditional methods. The system uses saltwater in greenhouse-cooling and climate control, resulting in a lower environmental footprint. Why it matters: This technology addresses critical food and water security challenges in arid regions by enabling local food production with minimal freshwater resources and reduced energy consumption.
KAUST researchers have fabricated and tested high-efficiency perovskite-silicon tandem solar cells optimized for hot climates. The tandem device is more stable than conventional perovskite cells and optimized for industry use. Outdoor testing at KAUST confirmed performance improvements, indicating bromide-lean perovskite top cells with narrower bandgaps are ideal. Why it matters: The research demonstrates the viability of tandem silicon-perovskite cells in harsh environments, paving the way for more efficient solar technology in the region and globally.
KAUST Ph.D. graduate Dr. Noha Al-Harthi and doctoral student Rabab Alomairy won the German Gauss Center for Supercomputing (GCS) Award for optimizing solvers for high-performance computing applications. Their work focused on acoustic boundary integral equations, common in engineering and fluid dynamics. The award provides them access to the supercomputer "Isambard" in the UK and other opportunities. Why it matters: This recognition highlights KAUST's leading role in high-performance computing research in the Middle East and the growing expertise in supercomputing among Saudi researchers.
A KAUST team led by Xin Gao developed an AI model for COVID-19 detection from CT scans, addressing limitations of existing methods. The model incorporates a novel embedding strategy, a CT scan simulator, and a 2.5D deep-learning algorithm. Tested at King Faisal Specialist Hospital, the model demonstrated high accuracy in detecting COVID-19 cases. Why it matters: This research provides a valuable tool for rapid and accurate COVID-19 diagnosis in the region, especially in early-stage infections, improving healthcare outcomes.
A KAUST-led international study published in Nature outlines a roadmap for marine life to recover to full abundance by 2050. The study identifies "recovery wedges" consisting of six complementary interventions: protecting species, harvesting wisely, protecting spaces, restoring habitats, reducing pollution, and mitigating climate change. Researchers found evidence of marine life's resilience and a shift from losses to recovery in some areas. Why it matters: The study provides actionable recommendations for large-scale interventions to achieve a sustainable future for marine ecosystems in the Red Sea and globally.
A KAUST-led research team has observed intergenerational epigenetic inheritance in corals, demonstrating that corals pass patterns of DNA to their offspring. The research, published in Nature Climate Change, shows that corals can adapt to environmental changes and pass those traits on through DNA methylation patterns. This is the first time this process has been observed in animals, previously only seen in plants. Why it matters: This finding could enable biologists to train corals in nurseries to produce offspring better equipped to survive changing marine environments, aiding coral reef restoration efforts.
Researchers from KAUST, University of St. Andrews, and the Center for Unconventional Processes of Sciences have developed an uncrackable security system using optical chips. The system uses silicon chips with complex structures that are irreversibly changed to send information, achieving "perfect secrecy" through a one-time key. This method leverages classical physics and the second law of thermodynamics to ensure that keys are never stored, communicated, or recreated, making interception impossible. Why it matters: This breakthrough has the potential to revolutionize communications privacy globally, offering an unbreakable method for securing confidential data on public channels.
KAUST researchers from the Red Sea Research Center (RSRC) and Computational Bioscience Research Center (CBRC) found macroalgae DNA prevalent in the open ocean, up to 5,000 km from coastal areas. 69% of drifting macroalgae sinks below 1,000 m depth, sequestering carbon in deep ocean waters. The study used metagenomes generated by global ocean expeditions Tara Oceans and Malaspina, analyzed via KAUST's DMAP platform and Shaheen supercomputer. Why it matters: The findings confirm the role of macroalgae in carbon sequestration, highlighting their importance in blue carbon assessments for climate change mitigation and underscoring KAUST's contribution to environmental sustainability research.
KAUST researchers developed a new algorithm for detecting cause and effect in large datasets. The algorithm aims to find underlying models that generate data, helping uncover cause-and-effect dynamics. It could aid researchers across fields like cell biology and genetics by answering questions that typical machine learning cannot. Why it matters: This advancement could equip current machine learning methods with abilities to better deal with abstraction, inference, and concepts such as cause and effect.
KAUST researchers led by Yves Gnanou and Nikolaos Hadjichristidis have developed a metal-free process for creating aliphatic degradable polycarbonates using CO₂. This polycarbonate is transparent, highly flexible, and produced without toxic metals, using an ammonium compound and a boron-based compound. The process helps reduce plastic pollution and CO₂ emissions, addressing environmental concerns. Why it matters: This innovation offers a sustainable alternative to traditional plastic production, aligning with global efforts to reduce reliance on harmful materials and combat climate change.
Jean M. J. Fréchet, retired KAUST senior vice president, has been awarded the King Faisal Prize in Chemistry for his pioneering work in dendrimers, photoresists, and organic photovoltaics. His work has contributed to advancements in biotherapeutics, organic electronics, materials, and microfluidics. Fréchet is the 10th most cited chemist globally, with over 900 publications and 200 patents. Why it matters: The recognition highlights KAUST's impact on global scientific advancement and underscores the importance of investing in basic research with broad applications.
KAUST spin-out company NOMADD, which specializes in robotic PV cleaning systems, has secured a Series B investment from Saudi construction company CEPCO. The investment will support NOMADD's project pipeline and growth ambitions, enabling them to scale operations and serve more customers. CEPCO will also advise on technology development and local manufacturing in Saudi Arabia. Why it matters: This investment validates KAUST's innovation fund strategy and supports the deployment of sustainable energy solutions in the region, leveraging local expertise and manufacturing.
KAUST's Professor Carlos Duarte contributed to sequencing the genome of Zostera marina (eelgrass), work published in Nature. The research identifies gene loss and adaptation mechanisms related to the plant's transition from land to marine environments. Eelgrass developed salt resistance, which could inform selective breeding for salt-tolerant food crops. Why it matters: Understanding the eelgrass genome can help in conservation efforts and provide insights into plant adaptation to climate change and marine environments.
KAUST researchers led by Dr. Muhammad Hussain have developed a flexible, transparent silicon-on-polymer based FinFET inspired by the folded architecture of the human brain's cortex. The team created a 3D FinFET on a flexible platform without compromising integration density or performance. They aim to demonstrate a fully flexible silicon-based computer by the end of the year. Why it matters: This research could lead to the development of ultra-mobile, foldable computers and integrated circuits, advancing the field of flexible electronics in the region.
KAUST researchers led by Dr. Niveen Khashab have developed thermosensitive liposomes for controlled drug release, particularly in cancer therapies. The liposomes are designed to release drugs only when they reach heated tumor tissue, minimizing systemic side effects. Cholesterol moieties are used as anchors to create a "nail" or "comb" effect, enabling temperature-triggered drug release inside cells. Why it matters: This targeted drug delivery system could significantly improve the efficacy and reduce the toxicity of cancer treatments.
A KAUST-led team developed a nano-optical chip capable of generating and controlling nanoscale rogue waves. The chip, detailed in Nature Physics, uses a planar photonic crystal fabricated at the University of St. Andrews and tested at FOM Institute AMOLF. It enables unprecedented control over these rare, high-energy events, opening possibilities for energy research and environmental safety. Why it matters: This innovation provides a new platform for studying extreme events and potentially harnessing their energy, advancing both fundamental science and practical applications in areas like renewable energy and disaster prevention.
A KAUST research team led by Prof. Osman Bakr developed a novel antisolvent vapor-assisted crystallization (AVC) method to grow high-quality, crack-free MAPbX3 perovskite single crystals at room temperature. The resulting crystals exceeded 100 mm3 in volume and exhibited exceptionally low trap-state density (approximately 10^9 – 10^10 cm-3). The crystal quality is comparable to high-quality single crystal silicon, but grown at much lower temperatures. Why it matters: This breakthrough allows for more accurate characterization of perovskite photovoltaic properties and can accelerate improvements in solar cell efficiency.
A KAUST team led by Husam Alshareef has developed a microfabricated energy storage device with high energy and power density. The device uses nickel hydroxide as an active electrode material and achieves a volumetric capacitance density of 325 F/cm3. Fabricated using chemical bath deposition at room temperature, the device can power microelectronic devices. Why it matters: This research advances energy storage technology in the region, potentially impacting the development of microelectronics and portable power solutions.
A KAUST-led research team used acoustic readings to reassess fish populations in the ocean's mesopelagic zone (200-1000m depth). Published in Nature Communications, their findings indicate that mesopelagic fish quantities may be ten times greater than current estimates. The study also suggests that open-ocean ecosystems are as efficient as coastal regions in nutrient cycling. Why it matters: This discovery assigns mesopelagic fish a potentially significant, previously unrecognized role in the global carbon cycle and highlights KAUST's contribution to marine science.
A KAUST-led study analyzed the impact of natural forests on local temperatures across the globe, finding that forests provide the greatest climate benefits when conserved or restored in their native locations. The analysis showed that forests generally have net global cooling effects in areas where dense tree cover would naturally exist. The research highlights that forests buffer against extreme temperatures, providing warming effects in freezing areas and cooling effects in warm regions. Why it matters: The findings emphasize the importance of regional scientific evidence in guiding land-use and restoration decisions, ensuring effective and sustainable nature-based solutions in the face of climate change.
KAUST hosted the fifth Rising Stars in AI Symposium, convening 25 early-career AI researchers from over 430 applicants. Discussions centered on reasoning in AI models, AI's role in addressing global challenges, embodied systems, and the necessity of trustworthy AI. Participants, including Dr. Sahar Abdelnabi from the ELLIS Institute Tübingen, emphasized the symposium's value for collaboration and identifying future AI research directions. Why it matters: The event highlights KAUST's commitment to fostering emerging AI talent and addressing critical issues in the field, with a focus on AI's real-world impact and ethical considerations.
KAUST researchers investigated repurposing depleted oil reservoirs for underground hydrogen storage using liquid organic hydrogen carriers (LOHC). The study, led by Professor Hussein Hoteit, explores the technical feasibility and economic viability of this approach. It suggests that depleted oil reservoirs could serve as long-duration hydrogen storage sites, reducing the need for new infrastructure. Why it matters: The research supports Saudi Arabia's energy transition by utilizing existing hydrocarbon reservoirs for hydrogen storage, aligning with efforts to develop sustainable energy systems.
KAUST hosted the Frontiers in Energy Storage 2026 conference, emphasizing energy storage technologies for renewable energy. The conference highlighted electrochemical and chemical systems, including advanced batteries and hydrogen, as complementary layers for long-duration and industrial resilience. KAUST is developing energy-storage solutions relevant for the Kingdom and valuable to global partners, aiming to engineer solutions to withstand extreme environmental temperatures. Why it matters: This positions Saudi Arabia as a potential global exporter of resilient energy hardware, aligning with Saudi Vision 2030 goals in renewable energy.
KAUST's Winter Enrichment Program (WEP) 2026, themed "Adaptation: Reshaping for a Fluctuating Future," convened students and researchers to explore adaptation through science and community. Speakers emphasized KAUST's role in preparing Saudi Arabia for change and the importance of aligning research with national goals. The program highlighted the Nabataean Traverse Expedition, a multidisciplinary scientific expedition from Petra to AlUla, involving KAUST's Professor Alexandre Rosado. Why it matters: The WEP program underscores KAUST's commitment to fostering innovation and preparing future leaders to address complex challenges facing Saudi Arabia and the world.
Professor Omar Knio has been appointed as the new dean of the Computer, Electrical and Mathematical Sciences and Engineering Division at KAUST, following the departure of Professor Gianluca Setti. Knio previously served as the division's interim dean and has held multiple leadership positions at KAUST since 2012. He aims to lead key initiatives central to KAUST's strategic mission while also serving as vice president of academic affairs. Why it matters: Knio's appointment signals KAUST's continued investment in computational sciences and engineering, crucial for advancements in AI and technology within Saudi Arabia.
KAUST has announced the latest recipients of the Ibn Rushd Fellowship Program, which supports early-career Saudi scientists for up to three years of postdoctoral research at international institutions. Fellows Abdullah Alghamdi and Abdulrahman M. Alfaraidi will conduct research at UC San Diego and Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory, respectively. Their research aligns with Saudi Arabia’s health, wellness, and energy priorities while maintaining ties with KAUST. Why it matters: This fellowship program helps develop talent in priority fields and elevates the profile of Saudi academia, contributing to Saudi Vision 2030.
KAUST Professor Raquel Peixoto has been named one of "50 People Changing the World" by The Explorers Club for her pioneering work on coral probiotics. Her research demonstrates that probiotics can mitigate coral bleaching and prevent coral mortality. Peixoto's work bridges microbial ecology with applied innovation, influencing conservation strategies and international policy. Why it matters: This recognition highlights the importance of nature-based solutions developed in the region for addressing global environmental challenges like climate-driven reef degradation.
KAUST has appointed Professor Husam Alshareef, a founding faculty member, as the new dean of the Physical Science and Engineering Division. Alshareef aims to lead the division to achieve groundbreaking science and impactful research, aligning with Saudi Vision 2030's economic diversification and environmental goals. He previously established the Center of Excellence for Renewable Energy and Storage Technologies (CREST) at KAUST. Why it matters: This appointment signals KAUST's continued focus on aligning its research with national priorities and leveraging its faculty to drive innovation in key sectors like renewable energy.
MIT Technology Review Arabia recognized two KAUST researchers in its annual Innovators Under 35 MENA Award. Yuxiang Liu developed Sun-Fi, an optical wireless communication network for smart cities that transmits data through window glass using modulated sunlight. Balsam Alkouz created a system for coordinating drone swarms to deliver supplies and deploy communications in disaster zones. Why it matters: The awards highlight KAUST's role in fostering innovative research aligned with Saudi Vision 2030 and developing cutting-edge technology for smart cities and crisis response.
A KAUST-led study published in PNAS quantifies the potential for increased food supply through coral reef restoration. Analyzing over 1,200 reef sites, the research estimates that rebuilding depleted fish populations could increase sustainable yields by nearly 50%. For Indonesia, this could translate to 162 million additional servings of reef fish annually. Why it matters: The study provides crucial evidence for governments to strengthen food security and ecosystem resilience through fisheries management, especially in regions facing high malnutrition.
Forbes Middle East's 30 Under 30 list for 2025 includes four KAUST students/alumni in Science and Technology, and two Saudi founders from KAUST's TAQADAM accelerator in Commerce and Finance. The KAUST honorees are Aljawharah Alsharif (wearable health tech), Arwa Alghuneim (blood cancer research), and Esraa Fakeih (femtech startup Gees). These individuals are recognized for leveraging their KAUST education and research to make real-world impacts, particularly in global health. Why it matters: This recognition highlights KAUST's role in developing Saudi talent and contributing to advancements in science, technology, and entrepreneurship within the region.
KAUST hosted the Nature Conferences: Brain Energy Metabolism in Health and Disease, convening experts to discuss brain energy use and its impact on function and disease. Researchers from KAUST and global institutions shared insights on metabolic interactions among brain cells and the brain's role in whole-body energy regulation. KAUST's President Sir Edward Byrne emphasized brain health as essential for the cognitive economy, aligning with Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030. Why it matters: The conference highlights KAUST's growing role in global neuroscience research and its commitment to addressing critical health challenges through international collaboration.
KAUST alumnae Dr. Fatimah Abdulhakim, Dr. Nadine Hosny El Said, and Dr. Rana Hussein Ali were honored in the 2025 L’Oréal-UNESCO For Women in Science Awards. Abdulhakim was recognized for her research on plant immune response, while El Said was honored for her work on epigenetic science and RNA-based therapies. Ali was named a 2025 German Laureate in the global L’Oréal-UNESCO For Women in Science Awards for her work at Goethe University Frankfurt. Why it matters: The recognition highlights KAUST's role in fostering female scientific talent and advancing research in areas crucial for regional food security and global healthcare.
KAUST celebrated its largest graduating class, the Class of 2025, with HRH Prince Abdulaziz bin Salman in attendance. Prince Abdulaziz shared a message reflecting Saudi Arabia's focus on meritocracy and talent. The graduating class represents over 45 countries and various fields including energy, AI, and sustainability. Why it matters: The event highlights KAUST's role in developing talent and contributing to Saudi Arabia's focus on technology and sustainability.
KAUST has been ranked No. 1 in the Times Higher Education (THE) Arab University Rankings for the third consecutive year. The 2025 edition of the rankings evaluated universities across 20 key indicators, including global citation impact and industry collaboration. Sixteen of KAUST's faculty were named on the 2025 Clarivate highly cited list. Why it matters: This recognition reinforces KAUST’s position as a leading research university in the Arab world and reflects Saudi Arabia’s increasing global competitiveness in research, innovation, and advanced education.
KAUST held its 16th commencement ceremony, graduating 593 students, its largest class ever. The ceremony was attended by Prince Abdulaziz bin Salman bin Abdulaziz, Minister of Energy and Chair of the KAUST Board of Trustees. Graduates are contributing to Saudi Vision 2030 in areas like AI-powered water monitoring and drought-resilient crops. Why it matters: The growth in KAUST graduates, especially in AI, signals increasing capacity for Saudi Arabia to achieve its Vision 2030 goals and contribute to global scientific advancement.
KAUST held its inaugural KGSP Alumni Summit, celebrating 17 years of the King Abdullah University of Science and Technology Gifted Student Program. The program has supported 656 Saudi scholars to complete bachelor's degrees abroad and prepares them for graduate research at KAUST. KGSP alumna Mariam Awlia, now with the U.N. Food and Agriculture Organization, highlighted the program's impact on her career and its potential for shaping national progress. Why it matters: The summit underscores KAUST's commitment to developing Saudi talent and fostering a network of innovators contributing to the Kingdom's research and development ecosystem.
KAUST researchers have developed a technology to convert spoiled dairy and fruit beverages into valuable short-chain and medium-chain carboxylic acids (SCCAs and MCCAs). These acids can be used for animal feed, aviation fuel, and pharmaceuticals, with SCCAs valued at $300 per ton and MCCAs having 10x higher value. A pilot study is underway at KAUST, utilizing over 500 liters of waste per week from regional companies. Why it matters: This innovation supports Saudi Arabia's goal to eliminate 90% of landfill waste by 2040 and promotes a circular economy by transforming food waste into high-value products.
KAUST hosted the Times Higher Education (THE) World Academic Summit 2025, the first time the event has been held in the Middle East, gathering over 800 delegates from 65 nations. The summit's theme was "Universities as Agents of Progress," focusing on the role of universities in solving sustainability and economic diversification challenges. THE's chief global affairs officer, Phil Baty, praised KAUST and the Kingdom's ambitions, emphasizing the importance of universities as drivers of societal change. Why it matters: The summit underscores the growing importance of Saudi Arabia and KAUST as a hub for global academic collaboration and innovation, aligning with the Kingdom's Vision 2030 goals.
KAUST has launched the KAUST Mathematics Competition (KMC), a national mathematics initiative for middle and high school students in Saudi Arabia. The competition aims to identify and nurture young mathematical talent, aligning with Saudi Vision 2030. Winners will receive prizes and the opportunity to attend a joint summer mathematics camp at KAUST and the University of Cambridge in 2026, with registration open until Nov 9, 2025. Why it matters: This competition can help develop a pipeline of Saudi talent in STEM fields crucial for advancing the Kingdom's AI ambitions.
Saudi Arabia's Minister of Energy, Prince Abdulaziz bin Salman, visited KAUST to review its academic and research programs. He attended a presentation on KAUST’s institutional strategy, which aims to strengthen the university’s global leadership in research, development, and innovation while advancing Saudi Arabia’s sustainable development goals under Vision 2030. Prince Abdulaziz also met with KAUST leadership, students, and researchers to discuss key recommendations and development initiatives. Why it matters: The visit underscores KAUST's importance in Saudi Arabia's Vision 2030 plan to diversify the economy and become a hub for science and technology.
KAUST is addressing the cybersecurity skills gap in Saudi Arabia through programs like the Cybersecurity Specialization program in partnership with the National Cybersecurity Authority. KAUST alumnus Jameel Showail emphasizes the growing need for qualified Saudi cybersecurity professionals due to national security concerns and increasing digitization. He highlights that cybersecurity is crucial for protecting against AI-related threats and ensuring data integrity. Why it matters: As Saudi Arabia rapidly digitizes and integrates AI, KAUST's role in developing local cybersecurity talent becomes increasingly vital for safeguarding critical systems and data.
Matthew McCabe, a leader in Earth observation and water security, has been appointed as the new dean of KAUST's Biological and Environmental Science and Engineering (BESE) Division. McCabe aims to deepen stakeholder collaborations, strengthen cross-disciplinary exchange, and accelerate the application of research into real-world solutions. He will also prioritize attracting and training young Saudi talent to lead in science and research. Why it matters: The appointment signals KAUST's continued focus on addressing critical regional challenges in water, food security, and climate change through scientific innovation and talent development.
KAUST Professor Yoshihide Wada has been awarded the 2025 Joanne Simpson Medal by the American Geophysical Union (AGU). The award recognizes Wada's pioneering research modeling the human impact on the global hydrological cycle. Wada joined KAUST in 2022 and has collaborated with Saudi stakeholders to develop scalable solutions for the Kingdom. Why it matters: This award highlights KAUST's growing prominence in environmental research and its commitment to addressing critical global challenges related to water resources and climate change.