KAUST launched the Circular Carbon Initiative (CCI) to address carbon management, capture, conversion, and storage of atmospheric CO2. The initiative involves developing materials and technologies to capture CO2 and exploring geothermal energy and geological storage. Novel fuel production will redefine CO2 as a valuable material through e-fuel developments. Why it matters: The CCI positions KAUST as a key player in developing sustainable technologies and contributing to Saudi Arabia's climate goals.
KAUST Professor Mohamed-Slim Alouini has been elected as a 2021 Fellow of the Optical Society (OSA) for his contributions to optical wireless communications. Alouini is a professor of electrical and computer engineering and the associate dean of the CEMSE Division at KAUST. He was also appointed by KAUST as Distinguished Professor, effective November 1, 2020. Why it matters: This recognition highlights KAUST's growing influence in cutting-edge research areas like wireless communication and optics within the Middle East.
MBZUAI has appointed Dr. Eric Shao as Executive Vice President and Provost. Shao previously held leadership roles at institutions like the University of Texas at Dallas and the Hong Kong University of Science and Technology. He brings expertise in areas such as machine learning, data mining, and intelligent systems. Why it matters: This appointment strengthens MBZUAI's leadership team and signals its continued investment in attracting top global talent to advance AI research and education in the UAE.
অধ্যাপক Timothy M. Shaw নিযুক্ত হয়েছেন MBZUAI-এর এক্সিকিউটিভ ভাইস প্রেসিডেন্ট ও প্রভোস্ট হিসেবে। ড. শাও এর আগে হংকং বিজ্ঞান ও প্রযুক্তি বিশ্ববিদ্যালয়ের (HKUST) অধ্যাপক ছিলেন। এই নিয়োগ MBZUAI-এর নেতৃত্বকে শক্তিশালী করবে এবং একাডেমিক উৎকর্ষের প্রতিশ্রুতির উপর জোর দেবে। Why it matters: একটি বিশিষ্ট AI ব্যক্তিত্বের অন্তর্ভুক্তি MBZUAI-এর শিক্ষাগত খ্যাতি বাড়াতে পারে এবং আরও বেশি আন্তর্জাতিক প্রতিভা আকৃষ্ট করতে পারে।
Saee, a KAUST-supported Saudi startup based in Jeddah, aims to disrupt last-mile delivery in Saudi Arabia by addressing challenges like delays and cash-on-delivery (COD) issues. They offer services such as fast COD consolidation, flexible dispatch to freelancers, and warehouse management. Saee also introduces a new concept called Cash Before Delivery (CBD) to improve cash flow for e-commerce platforms. Why it matters: This aims to solve a key bottleneck for e-commerce growth in Saudi Arabia, where COD is prevalent and creates financial inefficiencies.
KAUST has launched the KAUST Challenge: Ideas and Solutions for Hajj & Umrah 2020, in partnership with The Makkah Cultural Forum. The challenge aims to catalyze research, innovation, and economic development in Saudi Arabia. The KAUST Challenge will award 1 million SAR in cash and other prizes for ideas to improve the Hajj and Umrah experience and advance efforts to make Makkah a smart city. Why it matters: This initiative connects AI innovation directly to Saudi Arabia's Vision 2030 and the specific needs of religious tourism, a unique application area.
KAUST has launched the KAUST SME Innovation Services program to foster the growth of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in Saudi Arabia. The program aims to provide SMEs with access to KAUST's innovation ecosystem, helping them increase their customer base and reach new markets. This initiative follows a comprehensive survey of 500 SMEs conducted in partnership with various organizations, including Monsha'at and the Jeddah Chamber of Commerce. Why it matters: This program supports Saudi Vision 2030's goal of increasing SME GDP contributions and strengthens the Kingdom's economic landscape by leveraging university resources.
KAUST is partnering with the MiSK Global Forum (MGF) to support the 2020 Entrepreneurship World Cup (EWC), hosting a bootcamp for finalists. Four of the six Saudi startups among the top 100 in the EWC global finals are from KAUST. The EWC is the world's largest entrepreneurship competition, attracting 175,000 applicants from 200 countries. Why it matters: This partnership provides KAUST-nurtured startups with significant global exposure and resources, strengthening the Saudi entrepreneurship ecosystem.
An article from KAUST discusses the impact of COVID-19 on automation, material science, and VR. It suggests increased automation, voice activation, and motion detection to reduce transmission in public spaces. KAUST faculty member Derya Baran is working on antimicrobial materials for high-touch locations, and KAUST is exploring VR for virtual labs. Why it matters: The pandemic is accelerating the adoption of AI-driven solutions and advanced materials research within Saudi Arabia to address public health challenges.
A global census, with KAUST participation, assessed reef shark populations using Baited Remote Underwater Video Systems (BRUVS). The study found reef shark populations thrive where there are marine conservation policies and fishing regulations. However, they are scarce in areas with overfishing and poor resource protections, with sharks absent on nearly 20% of surveyed reefs. Why it matters: The research highlights the importance of conservation management for reef sharks, key apex predators and indicators of reef health, especially in the Red Sea region.
KAUST's Water Desalination and Reuse Center (WDRC) is expanding its partnership with the Saline Water Conversion Corporation (SWCC). The collaboration aims to advance water desalination technologies in line with national priorities. The partnership will also focus on training the next generation of experts in the Kingdom. Why it matters: This expansion strengthens Saudi Arabia's focus on sustainable water solutions through research and development.
KAUST has become the first Middle Eastern university to join the University-Industry Demonstration Partnership (UIDP), an invite-only program including universities like Stanford, Yale, and Oxford. The UIDP focuses on identifying key issues impacting university-industry relations and fostering collaboration. KAUST aims to provide valuable insights to fellow UIDP members and translate its research to industry. Why it matters: This partnership enhances KAUST's role as a bridge between academia and industry in the region, fostering innovation and economic development in Saudi Arabia and the wider Middle East.
KAUST, VentureSouq, startAD, and Tamkeen have partnered to launch the first Conscious Investor Fellowship in the GCC. The six-week virtual program aims to enable regional investors to create sustainable change through high-impact investments. The fellowship will host 25 investors from family offices, corporations, and government entities. Why it matters: The program aims to empower mission-driven investors in the region and accelerate investment in technology-driven startups addressing societal, economic, and environmental challenges.
KAUST Ph.D. graduate Tariq Alturkestani won the best paper award at Euro-Par 2020 for his doctoral thesis on overlapping I/O and compute in large-scale scientific computation using multilayered buffering mechanisms. His work re-evaluates the Reverse Time Migration (RTM) method used by geoscientists for oil and gas explorations, utilizing emerging storage technologies. The paper was co-authored with Professor David Keyes and Dr. Hatem Ltaief from the KAUST Extreme Computing Research Center (ECRC). Why it matters: This award highlights KAUST's growing prominence as a hub for Saudi talent and research in supercomputing and extreme computing, particularly in applications relevant to the region's energy sector.
The Mohamed bin Zayed University of Artificial Intelligence (MBZUAI) and Israel’s Weizmann Institute of Science have signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) to collaborate in advancing artificial intelligence research and education. The partnership aims to foster joint projects, exchange programs, and knowledge sharing in areas of mutual interest within AI. Why it matters: This agreement signifies growing cooperation between the UAE and Israel in strategic technology sectors like AI, potentially accelerating innovation and development in both countries.
KAUST's Machinist Development Apprenticeship Program (MDAP) graduated its second cohort in August 2020, training Saudi nationals in advanced manufacturing technologies. The 18-month program provides in-depth training at the Workshops Core Lab in collaboration with Yanbu Industrial College. Graduates acquire skills to contribute to Saudi Arabia's Vision 2030 in the manufacturing sector. Why it matters: This program addresses the need for skilled local talent in advanced manufacturing, crucial for diversifying the Saudi economy and achieving its Vision 2030 goals.
KAUST has launched the Early Career Accelerator Program (ECAP) for Women in Cybersecurity to promote gender diversity in Saudi Arabia's cybersecurity workforce. The program provides training to Saudi female graduates in security, governance, risk, and compliance, in collaboration with RSA Security LLC. The inaugural program included four graduates from Prince Mugrin University who received training in integrated risk management and will receive ongoing mentoring from KAUST and RSA. Why it matters: This initiative aligns with Saudi Vision 2030 and the National Cybersecurity Authority’s efforts to increase female participation in cybersecurity, addressing the global skills gap and strengthening the Kingdom's cyber defenses.
KAUST President Tony Chan addressed the G20 National Science Academies (S20) virtually, congratulating the leadership for progress made since the April information session. He highlighted the upcoming S20 summit at KAUST, where the global science community will present a template for a better future to G20 leaders. Chan emphasized holistic thinking and the need to consider unintended consequences in technological developments like AI and precision medicine. Why it matters: This underscores KAUST's role as a convener for international science collaboration and its focus on AI ethics and governance within the G20 framework.
Edama Organic Solutions received $780,000 USD seed investment from the KAUST Innovation Fund. KAUST has also signed a contract to build a commercial-scale composting facility for Edama on its Thuwal campus, with a recycling capacity of 5,500 tons. Edama will manufacture and sell products, including Edama Desert Compost and Edama Palm Peat. Why it matters: This initiative promotes sustainable waste management practices in Saudi Arabia by turning organic waste into valuable soil improvement products tailored for desert environments.
SaudiVax, located in the KAUST Research & Technology Park, is collaborating with the University of Pittsburgh and Merck France to develop a COVID-19 antibody injection. The antibody both protects against potential infection and neutralizes the virus in those already infected. SaudiVax is utilizing KAUST expertise and has contracted with Merck France for manufacturing since suitable facilities are not yet available in Saudi Arabia. Why it matters: This partnership highlights the growing biopharmaceutical capabilities in Saudi Arabia and the potential for KAUST to serve as a hub for medical innovation in the region.
KAUST startup Wayakit has partnered with Swissport International AG to provide its disinfecting products at Jeddah, Dammam, and Riyadh airports. Wayakit's antiviral formulation eliminates 99.999% of bacteria, viruses, and the SARS-CoV-2 strain in 30 seconds. Swissport will use Wayakit to disinfect aircraft and buses, helping to curb the spread of COVID-19 and restore passenger confidence. Why it matters: This partnership highlights the growth of the Saudi startup ecosystem and KAUST's role in fostering innovation and supporting local entrepreneurs in developing advanced biotechnological solutions for critical challenges.
In July 2020, Hewlett Packard Enterprise (HPE) became a corporate tenant in the KAUST Research and Technology Park (KRTP). HPE will strengthen the KAUST Core Labs team, providing day-to-day support for the Shaheen II supercomputer, which has supported over 1,000 users and 650 publications. Future collaborations between HPE and KAUST will include projects in genomics, linear algebra, combustion computational fluid dynamics, and density-functional theory codes. Why it matters: This partnership enhances KAUST's research capabilities, aligning with Saudi Vision 2030 to drive scientific, economic, and social advances through high-performance computing.
KAUST's Hydrology and Land Observation (Halo) lab, led by Matthew McCabe, is using drones and satellites to monitor agricultural water usage in Saudi Arabia. They employ thermal cameras, sensors, and imagery from CubeSats to map crop types, health, and water stress. The team uses machine learning and AI to analyze the images, aiming to promote sustainable water management. Why it matters: This research addresses critical water scarcity issues in the region by providing data-driven insights for more efficient agricultural practices.
KAUST's TAQADAM Accelerator program has commenced its fourth cohort virtually, featuring 59 startups and 168 entrepreneurs from Saudi Arabia, Bahrain, Lebanon, and Egypt. This year marks the first time international startups have been accepted into the program, which offers up to SAR 150,000 in zero-equity funding. The bootcamp includes intensive training, workshops, mentorship, and guest speakers from UC Berkeley and GEN. Why it matters: This accelerator is a key initiative by KAUST and SABB to foster entrepreneurship and technological innovation in Saudi Arabia, aligning with the Kingdom's Vision 2030 goals.
KAUST Professor David Keyes chaired the International Supercomputing Conference (ISC) 2020, which was held virtually due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The conference featured a record registration of 4,735 specialists in high-performance computing (HPC). A paper by KAUST Ph.D. students Noha Al-Harthi and Rabab Al-Omairi on computationally simulated acoustic scattering won the 2020 Gauss Award. Why it matters: KAUST's leadership in ISC and the Gauss Award highlight Saudi Arabia's growing contributions to the global HPC community.
The KAUST China Alumni Chapter donated anti-pandemic materials, including 2,000 face masks and two Health Guard Robots, to KAUST during the COVID-19 crisis. The donation also included technical advice from alumni. The Hangzhou Association for Science and Technology (HAST) supported the donation of masks. Why it matters: This contribution highlights the strong connection between KAUST and its international alumni network, showcasing their commitment to supporting the university during challenging times.
KAUST researchers developed Aqua-Fi, a system for underwater wireless communication using lasers and off-the-shelf components. The system uses a Raspberry Pi as a modem to convert Wi-Fi signals to optical signals, enabling bi-directional communication. Using blue and green lasers, they achieved 2.11 megabits per second over 20 meters, compliant with IEEE 802.11 standards. Why it matters: This innovation could significantly improve underwater data transmission, benefiting applications such as environmental monitoring, underwater exploration, and communication with underwater devices.
KAUST Assistant Professor Derya Baran has been selected as a member of the Global Young Academy (GYA), the first member to represent a Saudi Arabian institution. The GYA is an international society for young scientists under 40 focused on science, policy, research environment, and science education. During her five years in the GYA, Baran hopes to contribute to building a National Young Academy in Saudi Arabia and give KAUST and the Saudi educational system greater representation in the scientific world. Why it matters: This appointment enhances the visibility of Saudi research institutions on the global stage and promotes the development of young scientists in the region.
Professor Iain McCulloch from KAUST has won the Royal Society of Chemistry's Interdisciplinary Prize. McCulloch was recognized for his work in designing and applying functional materials in optics, electronics, and energy. His research focuses on creating new organic materials for flexible solar cells and other applications. Why it matters: This award highlights KAUST's increasing role as a hub for innovative materials science research with global impact.
Scimagine is a KAUST-based startup that provides a cloud-based platform for managing and storing experimental data for material scientists. The platform allows researchers to store, manage, and share their data, as well as create scientific visuals. It addresses the problem of experimental data being hidden in PDF files and not easily searchable. Why it matters: This platform improves data accessibility and collaboration in materials science research, potentially accelerating discovery and innovation in the field.
KAUST alumnus Fahad Hossain (M.S. 2010, Ph.D. 2014) discusses his journey from KAUST to UC Berkeley, where he co-founded Serinus Labs Inc., a manufacturer of integrated silicon gas sensors. Serinus Labs develops gas-sensing solutions for air-quality monitoring, safety, and preventive healthcare. NASA became Serinus' first customer in 2018, contracting them to develop multi-gas sensors for the next generation of spacesuits. Why it matters: This highlights the impact of KAUST graduates in developing advanced sensor technologies and securing partnerships with leading organizations like NASA.
KAUST and the Saudi Electricity Company (SEC) collaborated to reduce non-technical losses in the Saudi power sector using machine learning. KAUST Visualization Core Lab (KVL) developed models using five years of SEC billing data from the Riyadh area to predict electricity usage and detect anomalous billing transactions. SEC estimates it could recover at least 73,000,000 SAR in lost revenue by correcting anomalies identified by KAUST models. Why it matters: This partnership demonstrates the potential of AI to address inefficiencies and fraud in critical infrastructure sectors in Saudi Arabia.
Gilles Lubineau, KAUST's Discovery Associate Dean for Faculty in PSE and PI in the COHMAS lab, has been elected to the European Academy of Sciences and Arts. Lubineau's nomination recognizes his contributions to material engineering, specifically developing approaches for predicting and improving the integrity of materials and structures. He hopes this nomination will build bridges between European and Saudi academic communities. Why it matters: This recognition of a KAUST faculty member elevates the university's international standing and fosters potential collaborations in engineering and materials science.
KAUST is joining universities worldwide to expedite licensing for COVID-19 related technologies. KAUST researchers are focusing on developing rapid diagnostic platforms, genomic analyses, and tools to track the virus's spread, collaborating with Saudi healthcare stakeholders. By signing the AUTM COVID-19 Licensing Guidelines and adopting the COVID-19 Technology Development Framework, KAUST will offer royalty-free, time-limited, non-exclusive licenses during and after the pandemic. Why it matters: This initiative facilitates quicker development and broader access to essential technologies for combating COVID-19 in Saudi Arabia and the Middle East.
KAUST scientists discovered a new brine pool in the Red Sea, named the Afifi pool, in collaboration with Saudi Aramco. The Afifi pool is the saltiest known in the Red Sea, six times saltier than surrounding seawater, and is located at a depth of 400 meters. Researchers used a variety of tools including Niskin bottles, an Idronaut CTD, and the Research Vessel Thuwal to characterize the pool's physical and chemical properties and sample its microbiology. Why it matters: This discovery facilitates understanding of the geochemistry and microbiology of extreme ecosystems, potentially aiding in the sustainable conservation of the Red Sea and offering insights into potential extraterrestrial environments.
KAUST is offering access to its Shaheen II supercomputer and other computing resources for COVID-19 research projects by researchers across the Kingdom. Researchers can apply for computing allocations by submitting a proposal to projects@hpc.kaust.edu.sa. The resources available include Shaheen II, the Ibex cluster, and support from KSL staff scientists. Why it matters: This initiative will accelerate COVID-19 research in Saudi Arabia by providing access to advanced computing infrastructure and expertise.
The KAUST Pathogen Genomics Laboratory (PGL), led by Professor Arnab Pain, is using DNA and RNA sequencing to study the SARS-CoV-2 virus. The lab is part of KAUST's Rapid Research Response Team (R3T), supporting Saudi healthcare stakeholders in combating COVID-19. Pain and his Ph.D. student Sharif Hala are partnering with the Saudi-CDC and Ministry of Health hospitals to sequence Saudi SARS-CoV-2 samples. Why it matters: This effort provides crucial data for understanding and monitoring the virus's spread and evolution within the Kingdom, informing public health strategies.
KAUST reflects on its COVID-19 response, highlighting community efforts, research contributions, and partnerships. Faculty are leveraging expertise in diagnostics, AI therapeutics, genomics, and epidemiology. KAUST is collaborating with the Saudi CDC, Ministry of Health, and other institutions. Why it matters: This demonstrates KAUST's role as a hub for research and innovation, contributing to both national and global health challenges during a crisis.
KAUST scientists and international researchers published a paper in Frontiers in Marine Science detailing marine spatial planning for Saudi's Red Sea Project. The study, involving The Red Sea Development Company (TRSDC), used spatial planning to achieve net positive conservation outcomes for the Al Wajh lagoon. The research targets a net conservation benefit of 30 percent exceeding typical levels. Why it matters: The study demonstrates that coastal development can enhance conservation through careful design, challenging the traditional view of development versus conservation.
A KAUST Rapid Research Response Team (R3T) is collaborating with healthcare stakeholders to combat COVID-19. Xin Gao and his Structural and Functional Bioinformatics (SFB) Group are developing an AI-based diagnosis pipeline from CT scans of COVID-19 patients. The AI pipeline aims to address the high false negative rates associated with nucleic acid detection. Why it matters: This research could improve COVID-19 diagnostics and potentially inform understanding of viral pathogenesis.
KAUST and Industrial Clusters (IC) virtually signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to host a National BioPark project in the KAUST Research and Technology Park (KRTP). The BioPark aims to foster research and technology development in biopharmaceutical, smart health, and associated AI technologies. KAUST will provide BioPark entrepreneurs and investors access to its innovation ecosystem and facilities. Why it matters: This initiative will advance Saudi Arabia's biopharmaceutical industry and align with KAUST's focus on biological sciences, smart health, and AI, contributing to economic diversification.
A KAUST research team is using cellphone mobility data, Google searches, and social media to model and predict COVID-19 spread. The models aim to forecast cases in the coming weeks and inform resource allocation, including hospital beds and medical staff. The team is using aggregated and anonymized data from cellphone companies to respect people's privacy. Why it matters: Integrating real-time digital data with epidemiological modeling can improve the speed and effectiveness of public health responses in the region and globally.
Dr. Rusty Brainard, the chief environmental officer at The Red Sea Development Company (TRSDC), has been appointed courtesy professor of marine science at KAUST's Red Sea Research Center. He will continue his role at TRSDC, leading efforts to enhance biodiversity and implement carbon neutrality. The appointment aims to foster collaboration between TRSDC and KAUST in marine research and sustainable development. Why it matters: This appointment strengthens ties between academia and industry in Saudi Arabia to advance sustainability goals and promote responsible development of the Red Sea region.
Victor Vescovo and the Caladan Oceanic crew, in cooperation with KAUST, made multiple manned dives into the Red Sea. They reached the deepest point, the Suakin Trough, for the first time. The team also dove the Kebrit Deep, which is shallower but scientifically important. Why it matters: This exploration provides an opportunity to study and protect the unique resources of the Red Sea's deepest regions, furthering scientific understanding of these previously inaccessible environments.
KAUST Ph.D. student Anna Fruehstueck won a 2020 Facebook Fellowship award, a two-year fellowship from Facebook Research, focusing on computer graphics. She was selected as one of 36 recipients from over 1,800 applicants and is the University's first recipient of the scholarship. Her research explores the intersection of computer graphics, geometry processing, and visual arts using machine learning. Why it matters: This award highlights the growing prominence of KAUST in computer science research and its ability to attract and foster top talent in the field.
KAUST and SABB have launched the fourth TAQADAM Startup Accelerator program, open to all entrepreneurs in Saudi Arabia. The six-month program offers accepted startups 150,000 SAR in zero-equity grant funding, mentorship, and access to co-working and lab facilities. Startups can compete for an additional 375,000 SAR in follow-on funding at the end of the program. Why it matters: This initiative is key to supporting the growth of the entrepreneurship ecosystem in Saudi Arabia and diversifying the Kingdom's economy, aligning with Saudi Vision 2030.
KAUST recently concluded a two-week interactive course called "Entrepreneurship for All," developed by Stanford University faculty. The course teaches leadership, entrepreneurship, and innovation through design thinking, and is the first of its kind in a Saudi Arabian higher education institution. Students learn to apply design thinking to generate prototypes and market-ready products, as well as negotiation and networking skills. Why it matters: The course supports Saudi Vision 2030's objectives to increase entrepreneurship and create new companies in high-value sectors, contributing to the Kingdom's innovation ecosystem.
KAUST Ph.D. student Zhuo Qu and fellow students from the Statistics Program launched the first American Statistical Association (ASA) student chapter outside of the U.S. in October 2019. The chapter aims to encourage and provide opportunities for KAUST students interested in statistics to connect with statisticians worldwide. In 2020, the chapter plans to organize seminars and connect students interested in statistics and data mining. Why it matters: This initiative highlights KAUST's commitment to fostering a global network of statisticians and promoting data analysis skills among its students, enhancing its role as a hub for international collaboration in STEM fields.
KAUST and Saudi Arabia's National Cybersecurity Authority (NCA) signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) on February 5 to strengthen national cybersecurity. The collaboration includes developing educational programs, consulting on curricula, and sharing information on the national cybersecurity workforce. The MoU also covers joint research projects, technical meetings, and forums to present research and expertise. Why it matters: This partnership aims to enhance Saudi Arabia's cybersecurity capabilities through education, research, and knowledge exchange, aligning with national strategic goals.
Researchers from KAUST, JCU, and UTS discovered dozens of new coral species on the Great Barrier Reef during a 21-day expedition. The team found that the biodiversity of some coral groups is up to three times higher than previously thought. One hard coral species, Acropora hyacinthus, may actually be five different species. Why it matters: This discovery enhances the understanding of coral diversity and distribution, which is crucial for the conservation and management of Australia's World Heritage site.