Prof. George Alexandropoulos from the AI and Digital Science Research Center (AIDRC) at TII presented a keynote at the RIS Technical Alliance (RISTA) forum. The presentation focused on hybrid reconfigurable intelligent surfaces for wireless communication and sensing applications. He discussed the role of RIS technology in enabling smart wireless environments within 5G and 6G networks. Why it matters: This highlights the UAE's contribution to cutting-edge research in next-generation wireless communication technologies and its potential impact on future network architectures.
The Technology Innovation Institute (TII) will host the GlobalEM high-power electromagnetics conference in Abu Dhabi from November 13–17. The conference, organized by TII’s Directed Energy Research Center (DERC), will feature sessions on sources, antennas, IEMI threats, high energy lasers, and critical infrastructure impacts. GlobalEM brings together experts to discuss challenges and opportunities in electromagnetics. Why it matters: The event strengthens the advanced directed energy domain in the UAE and supports Abu Dhabi's goal of becoming a hub for innovation in mitigating electromagnetic risks.
AMRC researchers Jide Oyebanji and Tarcisio Silvia will present papers at the MATLAB User Group Meeting in Abu Dhabi. Oyebanji's paper focuses on the 'Design of an Interactive TPMS Designing Desktop App' using MATLAB's numerical capabilities. Silvia's presentation discusses the optimization of MIMO active vibration controllers for electromechanical systems using MATLAB Simulink and Particle Swarm Optimization. Why it matters: The presentations showcase the application of computational tools like MATLAB in advanced materials research and digital engineering within the UAE.
Marcus Engsig from DERC will present a paper at the MATLAB User Group Meeting in Abu Dhabi on October 6. The paper, titled ‘Generalization of Higher Order Methods For Fast Iterative Matrix Inversion Compatible With GPU Acceleration’, discusses a novel approach to matrix inversion using GPUs. The method, named Nested Neumann, achieves 4-100x acceleration compared to standard MATLAB methods for large matrices. Why it matters: This research contributes to faster computation in numerical and physical modeling, crucial for processing large datasets in various scientific and engineering applications in the region.
AIDRC researchers co-authored an accepted IEEE Vehicular Technology Magazine article on time reversal for 6G wireless communications. The article presents experimental results on the spatiotemporal focusing capability of time reversal across carrier frequencies. It examines requirements for efficient time reversal operation and synergies with technologies like reconfigurable intelligent surfaces. Why it matters: The research explores advancements in 6G wireless communication, with potential implications for coverage extension, sensing, and localization capabilities in the region.
DERC's Aysha Al Neyadi won the Young Scientists Competition at the 14th International Conference Interaction of Radiation with Solids in Minsk, Belarus. Aysha co-authored a paper with researchers from Belarus State University and TII on the structure and phase composition stability of amorphous zirconium irradiated with helium ions. The paper examined amorphous alloy samples based on zirconium irradiated with Helium ions at 40 keV. Why it matters: This award recognizes contributions to materials science and highlights international research collaborations involving UAE institutions.
Suresh Sugumar from TII's Secure Systems Research Center (SSRC) has completed a year as Chair of the RISC-V Trusted Computing Group (TCG) Special Interest Group (SIG). The RISC-V TCG SIG is focused on defining trusted computing strategies for RISC-V, including confidential computing and trusted execution environments. SSRC's contribution to the SIG team supports zero-trust security and aims to boost the UAE's economic development. Why it matters: This leadership role for a UAE-based researcher highlights the country's growing influence in shaping open-source hardware security standards and contributing to global technological advancements.
Dr. Daniel Benevides da Costa from TII's Digital Science Research Center has been appointed Associate Editor-in-Chief of the IEEE Open Journal of the Communications Society. He will help oversee the journal which focuses on telecommunications systems and networks. Dr. da Costa has extensive experience with IEEE, including being an Associate Editor of the IEEE Communications Letters since 2012. Why it matters: This appointment recognizes regional expertise in communications technology and strengthens the UAE's role in shaping global standards and research in the field.
Dr. Abdelrahman AlMahmoud from TII's Secure Systems Research Center (SSRC) will participate in a WGISTA webinar on adopting a digital mindset in auditing and fighting corruption. The webinar, organized by the International Organization of Supreme Audit Institutions (INTOSAI), will discuss the impact of emerging technologies on public sector auditing. Dr. AlMahmoud will share insights on how AI and Big Data can enable auditors to process data at a new scale. Why it matters: This highlights the UAE's growing role in applying advanced technologies like AI and big data to improve governance and accountability in the public sector.
Mae AlMansoori, a Senior Researcher at the Directed Energy Research Center (DERC) in the UAE, has been awarded the IEEE Mojgan Daneshmand Grant. She is the first woman from the UAE and the region to receive this grant, which recognizes women in STEM. AlMansoori will receive a $1,500 prize and present a paper at the IEEE International Symposium on Antennas and Propagation in Denver. Why it matters: This award highlights the growing role of women in STEM fields in the UAE and provides a platform for regional researchers to gain international recognition.
Researchers at the Quantum Research Center's (QRC) Quantum Communications lab (QComms) achieved a milestone by demonstrating the violation of a Bell inequality using pairs of polarized entangled photons. This achievement serves as a "quantum health check" for their entangled photon source. The QRC team is working to harness entanglement effects in ultra-secure key distribution schemes to enhance secure communication. Why it matters: This advancement validates the application-readiness of QRC's quantum communication devices, paving the way for enhanced security in communication technologies within the region.
The Technology Innovation Institute's (TII) Advanced Materials Research Center (AMRC) will host an in-person seminar titled ‘Additive Manufacturing the Future’ on May 19 in Abu Dhabi. The seminar will offer insights into additive manufacturing technologies and their applications across industries. Global experts will discuss advances and solutions driving Industry 4.0. Why it matters: The event highlights the UAE's growing focus on advanced manufacturing and its potential to become a hub for additive manufacturing technologies in the region.
Technology Innovation Institute (TII) has appointed Alessio Figali and Pierre-Louis Lions to the Board of Advisors of its Artificial Intelligence Cross-Center Unit (AICCU). Figali is known for his work in Optimal Transport with applications to Machine Learning, while Lions is renowned for his work in Mean Field Game Theory with applications for the design of AI based Distributed Networks. Both are Fields Medal recipients and will advise the AI Cross-Center Unit in areas related to Machine Learning and Distributed AI, respectively. Why it matters: The addition of these eminent scientists will bolster TII's AI research capabilities and credibility in shaping the future of AI in the region.
The Digital Science Research Center (DSRC) has appointed Prof. David Naccache to its Board of Advisors for the Digital Security Unit. Prof. Naccache's experience includes cryptography and security, with prior roles at École Normale Supérieure (ENS) and Gemplus. He will provide external research assessment and foster collaboration between TII, ENS, RUHL and ULux. Why it matters: The appointment strengthens DSRC's digital security research capabilities through Prof. Naccache's expertise and academic network.
The Advanced Materials Research Center (AMRC) has announced strategic partnerships with institutions including the University of Sheffield, Khalifa University, and McGill University. These partnerships include visiting scholar fellowships, graduate programs with internships, and dual-degree programs. These initiatives aim to foster collaboration between AMRC experts and students from around the world, providing access to resources, mentorship, and financial support. Why it matters: This collaboration will strengthen Abu Dhabi's innovation ecosystem and R&D sectors through global knowledge transfer and talent development.
The Directed Energy Research Center (DERC) in the UAE has partnered with the University of Pisa to develop electronically controlled surfaces for dynamic broadband radio-absorption. This collaboration aims to test new materials and manufacturing processes for flexible radio-absorbing surfaces suited for harsh environments like the UAE. The project seeks to create smart-shields, active electromagnetic frequency selective surfaces, and electromagnetic energy harvesting surfaces. Why it matters: The partnership accelerates innovation in applied electromagnetics and could lead to advancements in telecommunications, energy, and electromagnetic protection in the region.
DERC is partnering with EPFL in Switzerland on a four-year project using EMTR and ML to study electromagnetic disturbance localization in PCBs. Professor Farhad Rachidi (EPFL) and Dr. Nicolas Mora (DERC) will mentor a PhD student. The collaboration builds on prior relationships between DERC researchers and Prof. Rachidi's lab. Why it matters: The partnership strengthens DERC's methodological expertise and international recognition in electromagnetic studies, potentially leading to further collaborations.
A team from the Cryptography Research Center (CRC) secured 6th place out of 210 teams in the 'Donjon CTF 2021: Capture the Fortress' cybersecurity competition. The competition featured jeopardy-style challenges covering cryptography, reverse engineering, and hardware security. The CRC team participated to improve visibility and assess team capabilities, particularly in hardware security. Why it matters: The CRC team's strong performance highlights the growing cybersecurity expertise in the UAE and its attractiveness for talent in this field.
Three researchers from the UAE's Advanced Materials Research Center (AMRC) are pursuing advanced degrees at the University of Manchester through the Advanced Technology Research Council’s NexTech program. Shamma Alhashmi is pursuing a PhD in chemical engineering, while Mohamed Alnuaimi and Omar BaNabila are working towards master's degrees in Advanced Engineering Materials. Their research focuses on nanomaterials, piezoelectrics, and material damage analysis, respectively. Why it matters: This initiative demonstrates the UAE's investment in STEM education and aims to enhance domestic research capabilities in advanced materials by providing international training opportunities for promising Emirati researchers.
The Secure Systems Research Center (SSRC) has partnered with the University of New South Wales (UNSW Sydney) to research enhancements and scaling of the seL4 microkernel on edge devices. The collaboration aims to extend the seL4 microkernel to support dynamic virtualization, combining minimal trusted computing base with strong isolation. This will address challenges related to heterogeneous hardware, software, and environmental factors in edge computing. Why it matters: This partnership aims to improve the security of edge devices in critical sectors, addressing vulnerabilities in cyber-physical and autonomous systems.
Technology Innovation Institute’s (TII) Secure Systems Research Center (SSRC) has joined the Confidential Computing Consortium (CCC). The CCC aims to accelerate the adoption of confidential computing through hardware-based Trusted Execution Environment (TEE) technologies. SSRC will contribute to standardizing hardware-level security capabilities, particularly for secure RISC-V solutions. Why it matters: This partnership strengthens the UAE's position in cyber-physical systems security by enhancing data protection during processing, an area often overlooked in conventional infrastructure.
Technology Innovation Institute (TII) and the University of Modena and Reggio Emilia are participating as Team TII-EuroRacing in the Autonomous Challenge at CES 2022 in Las Vegas. TII is also a premier sponsor of the event, which features head-to-head autonomous racecar competition at the Las Vegas Motor Speedway. Team TII-EuroRacing will compete with its DO12 racecar, a Dallara AV-21 retrofitted for automation, after making it to the finals at the Indy Autonomous Challenge in October 2021. Why it matters: This event highlights the UAE's commitment to advancing autonomous robotics and positions TII as a leader in the development of autonomous racing systems.
Technology Innovation Institute (TII) has become a full member of the European Telecommunications Standards Institute (ETSI). ETSI is a non-profit organization that develops ICT standards with over 900 member organizations from 66 countries. This membership allows TII researchers to participate in the development and testing of global ICT standards. Why it matters: This move enables TII to contribute to shaping global ICT standards and enhance its competitiveness through the adoption of the latest technologies.
Prof. Luigi Amico of the Quantum Research Center (QRC) has been awarded a US$250,000 Julian Schwinger Foundation (JSF) Grant for his 'Rydberg Atomtronics' project. The project involves experimental sampling managed by Prof. Oliver Morsch’s group in Pisa and will run in collaboration with the University of Catania and the University of Pisa. The grant will facilitate the development of quantum circuits using Rydberg excitations for fast quantum devices and quantum computing. Why it matters: This funding and collaboration strengthens the UAE's position in quantum computing research and fosters international partnerships in advanced technology.
Technology Innovation Institute (TII) has joined the Wireless World Research Forum (WWRF) as a board member. Prof. Mérouane Debbah from TII will also serve on the Steering Committee of WWRF. WWRF focuses on global wireless research, particularly the evolution and challenges beyond current 5G deployments. Why it matters: This membership allows TII to influence the development of 5G and future 6G telecommunications standards, enhancing its role in shaping the next generation of wireless technology.
Technology Innovation Institute (TII) and ASPIRE are leading initiatives under the Advanced Technology Research Council (ATRC) to transition the UAE to a knowledge-based economy as part of the Abu Dhabi Economic Vision 2030. TII focuses on applied research and has established 70 international partnerships with universities and research centers, including developing components of a quantum computer. ASPIRE aims to connect TII’s R&D with practical solutions to global problems, and seeks collaborations, including with Israel, to address food security, water availability, and climate change. Why it matters: These efforts signify the UAE's commitment to advanced technology R&D and international collaboration, aiming to diversify its economy and address critical global challenges.
Technology Innovation Institute (TII) has become a Sustaining Member of the Global Federation of Competitiveness Councils (GFCC). The GFCC includes organizations from over 30 countries focused on innovation and competitiveness. As a sustaining member, TII will help shape the GFCC’s strategy and promote TII's research. Why it matters: This partnership enhances Abu Dhabi and the UAE's role in global innovation and competitiveness initiatives, aligning with TII's goals to boost economic growth through research.
Jose Martinez, a Principal Researcher at the DSRC, was named one of Google's Top 20 Chrome Vulnerability Researchers for 2021, ranking 14th. He was recognized for detecting and demonstrating the exploitation of a serious vulnerability in the Chrome browser. This helped Google improve Chrome's security and contributed to safer development practices. Why it matters: The recognition highlights the growing cybersecurity expertise within the UAE and TII's ability to attract global talent in advanced security research.
The Secure Systems Research Center (SSRC) has obtained membership in the seL4 Foundation. This membership allows SSRC to participate in and contribute to the open-source development of seL4, a formally verified microkernel OS. SSRC aims to research, contribute to, and advance next-generation high-end edge device environments using seL4's capabilities. Why it matters: This move enhances the UAE's capabilities in developing secure and resilient edge computing solutions, fostering innovation in critical sectors like secure communications and drone technology.
TII's Secure Systems Research Center in Abu Dhabi has integrated a secure PX4 stack into a RISC-V based drone, marking a milestone in making RISC-V UAV systems a reality. The center ported DroneCode's PX4 open source software to RISC-V using a commercially available RISC-V development platform. SSRC aims to improve the security and resilience of the PX4 flight control software and NuttX real-time OS, contributing modifications back to the open-source community. Why it matters: This achievement enhances TII's position in drone and autonomous systems research, contributing to safer and more efficient smart city applications in the region.
Technology Innovation Institute (TII) has become a Full Member of the Science and Technology in Society (STS) forum. The STS forum's annual meeting gathers scientists, researchers, and leaders from government, industry, and academia to discuss the impact of science and technology on society. TII's CEO, Dr. Ray O. Johnson, emphasized the privilege of joining the STS forum to help shape science, technology, and innovation for the future. Why it matters: This membership allows TII to enhance its global networking and play a greater role in defining next-generation innovation standards, strengthening the UAE's position in global science and technology discussions.
TII Chief Researcher Mérouane Debbah and MBZUAI President Eric Xing visited École Polytechnique in France to discuss AI research and training. They reviewed AI projects and opportunities to increase the visibility of UAE-led research. The meeting aimed to strengthen collaboration between MBZUAI, TII, and École Polytechnique. Why it matters: Such partnerships can foster knowledge exchange and accelerate AI innovation in the UAE by leveraging international expertise.
Professor Marco Amabili, advisor at the Advanced Materials Research Center (AMRC), received the 'Cataldo Agostinelli and Angiola Gili Agostinelli' International Prize from the Lincei National Academy of Sciences of Italy. The award recognizes Prof. Amabili's research in mechanical vibrations, composite structures, and vascular biomechanics. He received the award in Rome from Nobel laureate Professor Giorgio Parisi. Why it matters: The recognition highlights the growing international visibility of UAE-based researchers and the increasing commitment of UAE institutions like TII to deep-tech research.
Technology Innovation Institute's (TII) Directed Energy Research Center (DERC) is integrating machine learning (ML) techniques into signal processing to accelerate research. One project used convolutional neural networks to predict COVID-19 pneumonia from chest x-rays with 97.5% accuracy. DERC researchers also demonstrated that ML-based signal and image processing can retrieve up to 68% of text information from electromagnetic emanations. Why it matters: This adoption of ML for signal processing at TII highlights the potential for advanced AI techniques to enhance research and security applications in the UAE.
The Directed Energy Research Center (DERC) is partnering with Montena Technology to study high-altitude electromagnetic pulses and design infrastructure safeguards. DERC is also collaborating with Radaz to evaluate ground penetrating and synthetic aperture radars in Abu Dhabi, aiming to identify natural resources. Additionally, DERC and Université de Picardie Jules Verne are working on laser sources and sensors, with a DERC researcher spending four years in France. Why it matters: These partnerships enhance DERC's research capabilities in critical areas like infrastructure protection, resource exploration, and advanced sensing technologies.
The 34th General Assembly and Scientific Symposium (GASS) of the International Union of Radio Science (URSI) will be held in Rome from August 28 to September 4. The Technology Innovation Institute’s Directed Energy Research Center (DERC), led by Dr Chaouki Kasmi, will present a tutorial and five scientific papers. DERC's presentations will focus on advances in electromagnetics and optoelectronics. Why it matters: DERC's participation highlights the UAE's growing role in international radio science research and development.
Technology Innovation Institute’s Directed Energy Research Center (DERC) is sponsoring the 8th Euro-Asian Pulsed Power Conference (EAPPC) in Biarritz, France. The conference will cover topics such as pulsed power applications, high power microwaves, particle beam technology, and ultrahigh magnetic field generation. DERC will present its progress on fast discharge technologies with semiconductors and gases. Why it matters: DERC's participation highlights the growing focus on advanced energy technologies and international collaboration within the UAE's research landscape.
Technology Innovation Institute (TII) has appointed Dr. Ray O. Johnson as its new CEO. Dr. Johnson brings over 40 years of experience in technology leadership, including roles at Lockheed Martin and Bessemer Venture Partners. He will be responsible for shaping TII's strategic direction and leading its growth strategies. Why it matters: This appointment signals TII's commitment to strengthening its position as a leading research and development center in the UAE and attracting top global talent to drive innovation.
The Directed Energy Research Center (DERC) at TII will participate in the 2021 Joint IEEE International Symposium on Electromagnetic Compatibility, Signal & Power Integrity, and EMC Europe. DERC will present scientific papers and a tutorial on Nuclear Electromagnetic Pulse (NEMP) with ETS Lindgren, led by Dr. Nicolas Mora. Dr. Mora and Professor Farhad Rachidi will present a tutorial on High Altitude Electromagnetic Pulse (HEMP), Electromagnetic Pulse (EMP), and Intentional Electromagnetic Interference (IEMI). Why it matters: The participation highlights the UAE's growing expertise in electromagnetic compatibility and protection, particularly regarding critical infrastructure resilience against electromagnetic threats.
Technology Innovation Institute's Advanced Materials Research Center (AMRC) in Abu Dhabi has appointed international experts to its Board of Advisors. The board includes professors from Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München, Imperial College London, City University of Hong Kong, Monash University, University of Cambridge, University of Sheffield, Khalifa University, and Técnico. The advisors will guide AMRC's research in nanomaterials, energy absorbing materials, additive manufacturing, metamaterials and other areas. Why it matters: The appointments signal TII's commitment to advancing materials science research in the UAE and fostering international collaboration in this critical domain.
TII's Secure Systems Research Center (SSRC) has joined Dronecode, a Linux Foundation non-profit, to enhance UAV security. SSRC will contribute to Dronecode's Security SIG, focusing on cryptography, memory protection, and code analysis for the Pixhawk autopilot hardware and PX4 software. SSRC aims to develop and share security and resilience capabilities for the open UAV platform. Why it matters: This partnership enhances the security of drone systems, addressing potential privacy, cybersecurity, and safety threats in line with the UAE's focus on secure autonomous systems.
TII's Directed Energy Research Center (DERC) has announced partnerships with Ruhr University Bochum, Helmut Schmidt University, University Clermont Auvergne, and National University of Colombia, Bogota. The collaborations aim to advance research in directed energy sub-disciplines, including radar systems, lightning protection, and high-power electromagnetics. These partnerships will involve research on ground-penetrating radar (GPR) and numerical/statistical methods. Why it matters: This international collaboration strengthens the UAE's position as a hub for advanced technology research and development, particularly in the strategic area of directed energy systems.
Technology Innovation Institute (TII)'s Quantum Research Center (QRC) has developed 'Qibo', an open-source quantum computing programming framework, in collaboration with global researchers. Qibo supports quantum algorithms across different computer systems, including GPUs and multiple quantum devices, and is written in Python and C/C++. The framework aims to run quantum algorithms across different quantum computers and simulators and outperformed other computing languages in initial benchmark studies. Why it matters: This open-source framework can accelerate quantum research and applications in the region, contributing to advancements in areas like AI, finance, and life sciences.
The Autonomous Robotics Research Center (ARRC) at Abu Dhabi’s Technology Innovation Institute (TII) has appointed a board of advisors composed of globally-recognized experts in robotics and autonomous systems. The advisors include professors from Georgia Tech, ETH Zurich, University of Bologna, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, NYU, and Czech Technical University. The board will guide ARRC's research into robotics technologies aimed at building hybrid biological and artificial systems. Why it matters: This signals the UAE's continued investment in attracting top international expertise to advance its AI and robotics research capabilities.
A talk at the Directed Energy Research Center (DERC) at TII will discuss rapid prototyping using laser-cutting facilities available at MakerSpace in Al Zeina. The talk will cover constructing prototypes from wood and acrylic and compare this approach to traditional 3D printing. The speakers will also describe the impact of the ‘4th Industrial Revolution’ on manufacturing in the UAE, and how makerspaces can contribute to Operation 300bn. Why it matters: This highlights the UAE's focus on advanced manufacturing and the role of makerspaces in fostering innovation and developing local capabilities.
TII's Secure Systems Research Center (SSRC) in Abu Dhabi has appointed international experts to its Board of Advisors. The advisors have expertise in areas like autonomous computing, cyber-physical systems, and cryptology. The board includes experts from Khalifa University, NYU Abu Dhabi, Dubai Electronic Security Center, and Purdue University. Why it matters: The move strengthens the UAE's cybersecurity research capabilities and aligns with its focus on developing secure autonomous systems.
Mae AlMansoori from TII's Directed Energy Research Center won the Young Scientist Award at URSI Kleinheubacher Tagung 2020. Her paper introduced a correlation metric to evaluate the influence of random variables on high-power electromagnetic sources, specifically a Vircator model. The study combined extreme value theory and descriptive statistics to analyze peak output power variability and identify dominant factors. Why it matters: The research offers a framework for managing uncertainties in high-power electromagnetic sources and optimizing their efficiency, relevant for defense and energy applications in the region.
The Technology Innovation Institute's Cryptography Research Center (CRC) in Abu Dhabi has appointed a Board of Advisors comprised of global cryptography experts. The board includes Prof. Joan Daemen, Prof. Lejla Batina, Dr. Guido Bertoni, Prof. Carlos Aguilar, Prof. Damien Stehlé, and Prof. Tim Güneysu. The advisors will guide CRC's research efforts in areas like post-quantum cryptography and hardware-based cryptography. Why it matters: This move strengthens the UAE's position as a global hub for cryptography research and development, fostering innovation in this critical field.
DERC at Khalifa University hosted a virtual seminar on High Energy Physics and Sensing Technologies, drawing 230 attendees from over 20 countries. The seminar featured presentations from a dozen international scientists on high-power electromagnetics and electromagnetic interference. Future seminars are planned on high-energy lasers, acoustics, and radar/sensing, with support from international universities and scientific societies. Why it matters: This event highlights the UAE's growing role as a hub for international scientific collaboration and advanced research in strategic technology areas.
Supermicro and EHC have partnered to build sovereign AI data centers in the UAE. These data centers aim to support the growing demand for AI infrastructure and services within the country. The collaboration seeks to establish secure and locally controlled AI capabilities. Why it matters: This initiative enhances the UAE's AI infrastructure and supports its national AI strategy by providing sovereign data processing and storage.