KAUST Professor of Electrical Engineering Boon S. Ooi has been elected as a Fellow of the U.S. National Academy of Inventors (NAI). This honor recognizes Ooi's contributions to semiconductor photonics, optical sensors, and particularly his work on fiber sensors for oil & gas and agriculture. Ooi's inventions are relevant to communications, health, energy and agriculture. Why it matters: This recognition highlights KAUST's and the region's increasing contributions to impactful research and innovation in areas like optical sensing and semiconductor photonics.
KAUST and ARMOR, a global technology company, have collaborated to create new solar-powered outdoor seating featuring flexible, lightweight, and semi-transparent solar technologies. The installation of the smart solar street furniture has been completed on KAUST campus in Saudi Arabia. The ASCA film used draws on technology co-developed by researchers at the KAUST Solar Center, using printed semiconducting inks on plastic film. Why it matters: This project demonstrates the potential for integrating KAUST's solar research into commercially viable applications and strengthens ARMOR's presence in the MENA region.
KAUST's Bluefin, a fish wearable technology developed by Professor Muhammad Mustafa Hussain, won the CES Innovation Award. The device measures water temperature, pressure, depth, and pH levels, functioning for a year at a depth of 2km while weighing only 2.4 grams. Bluefin will be available to scuba divers, naval forces, and fisheries for marine life tagging. Why it matters: This award recognizes KAUST's contributions to marine research technology and positions the university as a global leader in applying advanced engineering to ecological monitoring.
KAUST hosted the inaugural KAUST Saudi Leadership Program (KSLP) for Emerging Leaders from November 24-26, welcoming approximately 100 young Saudi men and women from industry, government, and academia. The program, delivered in collaboration with the University of Michigan's Ross School of Business, focused on "Leading through Innovation." Participants were selected based on their high potential and track record, aiming to develop their capacity to drive change and build professional networks. Why it matters: The KSLP program strengthens KAUST's role in developing Saudi talent and contributing to the Kingdom's innovation ecosystem, preparing future leaders to shape innovation within Saudi Arabia.
KAUST's Core Labs provide engineering simulation services and training using state-of-the-art technology. The Supercomputing Core Lab (KSL) at KAUST conducts training workshops in partnership with ANSYS, a market leader in engineering and simulation design software. Since 2017, KSL has conducted five training workshops related to engineering software in partnership with ANSYS, with 230 attendees, including 138 individuals from in-Kingdom institutions outside of KAUST. Why it matters: These workshops strengthen Saudi Arabia's engineering capabilities by providing access to simulation software and training, facilitating collaboration between KAUST, Saudi Aramco, and SABIC.
KAUST held its 10th Industry Advisory Board (KIAB) meeting, bringing together university leadership and 26 executive-level industry representatives. The meeting highlighted KAUST's achievements over the past decade and focused on future research and economic development plans aligned with Saudi Vision 2030. Over the past 10 years, KICP members have funded over 150 research projects and hired over 25 percent of KAUST graduates. Why it matters: The KIAB meeting underscores KAUST's role in fostering industry collaboration and driving innovation in Saudi Arabia, particularly in R&D and alignment with Vision 2030.
FalconViz, a KAUST-based startup co-founded by alumnus Luca Passone, specializes in 3D surveying and mapping using unmanned aerial systems. Established in 2015, the company offers services such as topographical surveys, mining assessments, and flood modeling to clients in Saudi Arabia and beyond. KAUST provided FalconViz with early funding, training, and ongoing support. Why it matters: The success of FalconViz highlights KAUST's role in fostering technological innovation and entrepreneurship in Saudi Arabia, contributing to the Kingdom's growing technology sector.
Four researchers from KAUST attended the 69th Lindau Nobel Laureate Meeting in Germany, which focused on physics. The meeting provided an opportunity for young scientists to interact with 39 Nobel laureates, including Donna Strickland and Gérard Mourou. KAUST attendees included Abderrahmen Trichili, Ibrahim Dursun, Abdullah Almansouri, and Latifah Al Maghrabi, who participated in lectures, talks, and open exchanges. Why it matters: Participation in such events raises KAUST's profile and provides invaluable networking and learning opportunities for its researchers.
KAUST Ph.D. student Asrar Damdam won a Silicon Valley pitching competition with her biotechnology startup UVERA, which uses ultraviolet light to extend the shelf life of fresh food. The idea ranked first out of 116 others and was deemed the most investable by venture capitalists. UVERA's technology reduces food pathogens like E. coli and Salmonella, aiming to reduce food waste. Why it matters: This award highlights the potential for innovative foodtech solutions emerging from Saudi universities and their ability to attract global investment.
KAUST researchers organized a week-long workshop on bioinformatics, covering genomics and transcriptomics data analysis. The workshop targeted students, postdocs, and senior researchers, providing hands-on training in coding and analysis using tools like R, Python, and shell scripts. Attendees with little prior computational biology experience were introduced to fundamental concepts and tools for handling large sequencing datasets. Why it matters: The workshop addresses the increasing need for bioinformatics expertise at KAUST and in the region, crucial for advancing research in fields like evolution and complex diseases.
KAUST and the Misk Initiatives Center signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to expand collaboration and achieve national development goals. The partnership focuses on academic and pre-professional development for Saudi students, entrepreneurial activities, and joint educational programs. Top students from Misk will be nominated for KAUST programs like SRSI, KGSP, and KSLP. Why it matters: This MoU signifies a strategic alignment between KAUST and Misk to cultivate Saudi talent and promote innovation, contributing to the Kingdom's Vision 2030.
Red Sea Farms, a KAUST agriculture technology spinout, placed third at the Entrepreneurship World Cup (EWC) and won $150,000. The startup specializes in saltwater greenhouse technology to reduce the dependence on fresh water for irrigation. Red Sea Farms recently received $1.9 million USD in seed funding from KAUST's Innovation Fund and Research Products Development Company to build a pilot greenhouse. Why it matters: This award and funding will enable Red Sea Farms to scale their production of saltwater tomatoes and address food system sustainability in water-scarce regions.
KAUST student Zain Ahmad won a best poster award at the 45th International Conference on Micro & Nano Engineering in Rhodes, Greece. Ahmad's poster, titled "Hydrophobic Desalination Membranes from Common Hydrophilic Materials," presented research co-authored by Ratul Das, Sankara Arunachalam, Ulrich Buttner, and Himanshu Mishra. The poster presented the first-ever membranes for water desalination using membrane distillation processes derived from water-loving materials, addressing the limitations of traditional water-repellent materials. Why it matters: This award highlights KAUST's contribution to innovative desalination technologies, crucial for water security in arid regions.
KAUST will host 96 Entrepreneurship World Cup (EWC) finalists from 64 countries for an entrepreneurship bootcamp, in partnership with the Misk Global Forum (MGF). The finalists will receive training at KAUST to prepare for the EWC global finals at the MGF in Riyadh in November. Six of the finalists are from Saudi Arabia and are graduates of KAUST's entrepreneurship programs. Why it matters: This partnership strengthens Saudi Arabia's position as a hub for global entrepreneurship and aligns with its economic transformation goals by attracting international startups and talent.
Virgin Hyperloop One (VHO) and King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding to foster collaboration in technology and transportation. The partnership aims to support Saudi Arabia's technology and transport sector development through knowledge exchange. This follows VHO's prior technology partnership with the MiSK Foundation in 2017. Why it matters: The collaboration aligns with Saudi Vision 2030, aiming to establish the Kingdom as a hub for advanced transportation technology and innovation in the Gulf region.
KAUST researchers collaborated with the Blue Brain Project to study astrocytes, brain cells crucial for memory and learning. Dr. Corrado Calì produced 3D models of astrocytes using serial block-face electron microscopy to understand their structure. The study, published in Progress in Neurobiology, reveals how lactate transfer from astrocytes to neurons contributes to brain energy usage. Why it matters: Understanding astrocyte function could lead to new drugs for treating conditions like stroke and Alzheimer's disease by improving brain cell function.
KAUST postdoctoral fellow Muhammad Jamil won the best poster award at the 15th World Congress on Parasitic Plants for his research on combating the parasitic plant *Striga hermonthica*. His poster outlined his work at KAUST on developing technologies to help farmers in sub-Saharan Africa control this weed, which severely impacts cereal crops. Jamil is part of the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation-funded project at KAUST focused on controlling *Striga* in pearl millet. Why it matters: This recognition highlights KAUST's contributions to addressing critical food security challenges in Africa through innovative agricultural technologies.
KAUST research engineer Samy Ould-Chikh is collaborating with the Néel Institute-CNRS at the European Synchrotron Radiation Facility (ESRF) in France. They are using the ESRF's high-energy synchrotron light source to study the inner structure of matter at the atomic and molecular levels. Ould-Chikh's research focuses on catalysis and functional materials, with an emphasis on renewable energy and photocatalysis. Why it matters: This collaboration highlights KAUST's engagement with leading international research institutions to advance materials science and energy research.
KAUST and the King Faisal Prize (KFP) signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) on October 10, 2019 to promote the exchange of information and expertise. The collaboration includes hosting joint conferences, lectures, and events. KFP will benefit from KAUST's scientists to assist in its selection procedures. Why it matters: This partnership between a leading Saudi university and a prestigious international prize strengthens Saudi Arabia's position as a hub for scientific research and innovation.
KAUST and King Abdulaziz University (KAU) have signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) to collaborate and fund scientific research. The collaboration will focus on areas including cancer research, energy harvesting and storage, solar technology, renewable energy, and desert agriculture. The MoU was signed by Donal Bradley, KAUST VP for Research, and Yusuf Al Turki, KAU VP for Graduate Studies and Scientific Research. Why it matters: This partnership between two leading Saudi universities will help advance research and development in areas critical to Saudi Vision 2030.
The TAQADAM Startup Accelerator Program, in partnership with KAUST and the Saudi British Bank (SABB), awarded over 2 million SAR to startups at its finals. 28 startups pitched ideas to judges and investors, marking the program's third year of equipping entrepreneurs with skills to launch tech startups. Since 2016, TAQADAM has graduated 78 startups and awarded over 9 million SAR in funding. Why it matters: The initiative highlights Saudi Arabia's commitment to fostering entrepreneurship and diversifying its economy by supporting innovative ventures across various sectors.
A group of KAUST students and research scientists from the Clean Combustion Research Center (CCRC), Extreme Computing Research Center (ECRC) and Computer, Electrical and Mathematical Science & Engineering (CEMSE) division attended the 2019 Formula 1 Bahrain Grand Prix. This was part of the five-year research and development agreement between KAUST and McLaren Racing Limited. The KAUST group joined members from McLaren at the Bahrain International Circuit to observe the results of their partnership. Why it matters: This collaboration demonstrates KAUST's commitment to applying its research expertise in advanced engineering and computing to real-world challenges in motorsports, potentially leading to innovations in vehicle performance and efficiency.
KAUST and K.A.CARE have partnered to study solar irradiation and atmospheric weather conditions in Saudi Arabia, leveraging K.A.CARE's Renewable Resources Atlas Project. The collaboration uses KAUST's Shaheen II supercomputer to simulate weather and atmospheric conditions from 2005-2018. The long-term goal is daily forecasting of weather and air quality across the Arabian Peninsula. Why it matters: This initiative will provide crucial data for renewable energy development and environmental monitoring in the region, supporting Saudi Arabia's sustainability goals.
KAUST and ACWA Power have launched a Center of Excellence for Desalination and Solar Power following a memorandum of understanding signed on September 9. The collaboration aims to advance Saudi Arabia's position in water desalination and solar power technology. The center will focus on research in water quality monitoring and system performance modeling, leveraging KAUST's research centers. Why it matters: The partnership seeks to drive innovation and cost efficiencies in producing desalinated water and generating solar power, aligning with Saudi Arabia's sustainability goals.
Researchers from KAUST and the University of Padova studied how hyperoxia, or excessive oxygen supply, extends heat tolerance in marine ectotherms. The study, published in Science Advances, examined the role of photosynthetic organisms like seagrasses in producing oxygen in aquatic habitats. They found that increased oxygen availability helps coastal marine animals like crabs, sea cucumbers, and shellfish increase their resilience to rising temperatures. Why it matters: Understanding the interplay between oxygen levels and temperature tolerance can inform strategies for preserving marine ecosystems in the face of global warming.
KAUST startup Sadeem, which provides solar-powered smart city solutions for flood, traffic and environmental monitoring, won the Best Global Startup award in Dubai in 2017. Since then, Sadeem has focused on building its business model and infrastructure to accommodate expansion. Sadeem recently installed its smart city sensors, including the Aura air quality monitor, in Madinah, Saudi Arabia. Why it matters: This expansion demonstrates the potential for Saudi-based startups to provide innovative solutions to local challenges and scale their impact internationally.
KAUST became an organizational member of the American Academy of Underwater Sciences (AAUS), making it the only entity in Saudi Arabia with the license to provide scientific diver training and certification. KAUST and the Saudi Water Sports & Diving Federation (SWSDF) signed a Memorandum of Understanding to implement policies for scientific diving in the Kingdom. KAUST-trained divers can now dive at other member institutes, facilitating research collaborations. Why it matters: This partnership enhances KAUST's role as a hub for marine research and promotes safe scientific diving practices in Saudi Arabia.
KAUST is working to extend its research excellence to innovation and impact, aligning with Saudi Arabia's Vision 2030 to grow SME contributions. A KAUST Innovation Committee, led by Andrew Liveris, is collaborating with entities like TAQNIA and Monshaat to convert policy into tangible actions. The goal is to accelerate startups and deep technology development within the Kingdom, with KAUST startups playing a leading role. Why it matters: The initiative signifies a concerted effort to diversify the Saudi economy and foster a thriving startup ecosystem, leveraging KAUST's research capabilities.
KAUST alumna Vasiliki Kordopati turned a student project on laser-based illumination for horticulture into a startup called Oaesis Lighting Systems. She participated in KAUST's TAQADAM Accelerator program and is now developing a pilot project in the KAUST Research and Technology Park. KAUST is focused on embedding entrepreneurship into the academic experience, minimizing risk and offering innovators room to experiment. Why it matters: KAUST is fostering a new generation of deep technology entrepreneurs in alignment with Saudi Arabia's Vision 2030 goals for economic diversification.
KAUST startup UnitX, founded by KAUST alumni Kiran Narayanan and Professor Ravi Samtaney, offers on-demand supercomputing services via a cloud-like platform. UnitX aims to democratize access to supercomputing for industries like finance, government, and manufacturing, enabling data-driven decisions and faster product design. The global market for supercomputing as a service is estimated at $224 billion with 25% year-on-year growth. Why it matters: This initiative could significantly boost AI and simulation capabilities for regional enterprises by providing access to advanced computing resources without the prohibitive costs of owning and operating supercomputers.
KAUST led a session at the World Economic Forum's Meeting of the New Champions in Dalian, China, focusing on sustainability science. President Tony Chan and faculty members Peiying Hong, Mohamed Eddaoudi, and Derya Baran presented KAUST's research in water reuse, carbon capture, and transparent solar cells. Derya Baran highlighted KAUST spinoff iyris, which aims to turn windows into solar power plants. Why it matters: This showcases KAUST's role as an innovative hub for global research and education, particularly in green technologies, and highlights the university's commitment to addressing environmental challenges.
KAUST startup Quantum Solutions manufactures quantum dots, semiconducting nanoparticles that emit light with controllable energy. These dots are being explored for applications including displays, photodetectors, and solar cells. Quantum dots can enhance the efficiency of silicon solar panels by absorbing infrared light. Why it matters: This highlights the potential of KAUST-incubated startups to contribute to advanced materials science and renewable energy technologies in the region.
KAUST recently hosted the European Embedded Control Institute's International Graduate School on Control (IGSC). As part of the event, KAUST Professor Jeff Shamma gave a one-week course on "Game Theory and Distributed Control". The course had over 30 registered attendees, including participants from KAUST, KACST, King Saud University, and nine European universities. Why it matters: Hosting international events like IGSC enhances KAUST's global reputation, fosters collaboration opportunities, and exposes visiting researchers to KAUST's research environment.
Sergey Kozlov, a research scientist at KAUST's Catalysis Center (KCC), is leaving to take up a tenure-track position as an assistant professor at the National University of Singapore (NUS). During his time at KAUST, Kozlov focused on simulating the chemical properties of catalysts using computational chemistry methods and the Shaheen II supercomputer. His research focused on applications in energy and CO2 utilization technologies. Why it matters: Kozlov's move highlights KAUST's role in developing research talent and contributing to advancements in computational chemistry and catalysis within the region.
Five KAUST startups, graduates of programs like TAQADAM and 9/10ths Accelerator, each secured $50,000 at the Misk Entrepreneurship World Cup (EWC). Sadeem CEO Mustafa Mousa highlighted KAUST's role in supporting their flood-safety technology venture. KAUST will host a bootcamp for the finalists in preparation for the EWC Global Finals in Riyadh. Why it matters: This showcases KAUST's increasing role in fostering deep-tech entrepreneurship and supporting Saudi Arabia's innovation ecosystem.
Insyab, a startup specializing in collaborative robotics and drone solutions, was founded by KAUST alumnus Dr. Ahmed Bader and KAUST Professor Mohamed-Slim Alouini. Their flagship product, AirFabric™, is a broadband ultra-low-latency wireless connectivity solution enabling teams of unmanned vehicles to collaborate effectively. The technology allows robots to interact in real time and share learning, unlocking a "1+1=3" value proposition. Why it matters: This highlights KAUST's role in fostering deep-tech entrepreneurship and developing innovative solutions for industrial automation in the region.
KAUST and Fugro conducted the first remotely operated vehicle (ROV) training program in Saudi Arabia in 2018 through the KAUST-Fugro Center of Excellence for Marine Technology. The Fugro ROV Academy is accepted by major oil and gas companies, providing KAUST marine science students access to deepwater ROVs and pilot training. KAUST Ph.D. student Lina Eyouni became the first Saudi female ROV pilot through this program. Why it matters: The initiative enhances marine research capabilities in Saudi Arabia, aligning with Vision 2030 by promoting environmental protection and providing students with industry-standard training in robotics.
KAUST President Tony Chan discussed the university's alignment with Saudi Vision 2030 in an interview with Asharq Al-Awsat. He highlighted KAUST's contributions to Saudi Arabia's economic and technological development and its collaborations with projects like Neom City and Aramco. Chan emphasized KAUST's focus on high-quality research in areas like energy, food, water, and the environment. Why it matters: KAUST's strategic alignment with Vision 2030 positions it as a key enabler of Saudi Arabia's diversification and innovation goals.
KAUST alumnus Ronell Sicat (M.S. '10, Ph.D. '15) is developing immersive data visualization tools using augmented and virtual reality (AR/VR). After a postdoc at Harvard, Sicat returned to KAUST as a research scientist in the Visual Computing Center. Sicat developed a tool called DXR to help researchers prototype immersive visualizations. Why it matters: This highlights KAUST's role in fostering talent and innovation in AR/VR, a growing area with applications across various sectors in Saudi Arabia.
KAUST Professor of Electrical Engineering Kazuhiro Ohkawa has been elected as a Fellow of the Japan Society of Applied Physics (JSAP). JSAP recognized Ohkawa for his contributions to the development of wide bandgap semiconductor epitaxial growth and optical devices. Ohkawa's research at KAUST focuses on energy-conversion phenomena for sustainability, including doping technologies, MOCVD for nitride semiconductors, and nitride photocatalysts. Why it matters: Recognition of KAUST faculty in international societies raises the university's profile and highlights its contributions to applied physics and sustainable energy research.
Researchers from Princeton University and Qatar Computing Research Institute (QCRI) are collaborating on artificial intelligence and deep learning projects. The partnership aims to leverage the expertise of both institutions to advance AI research. Specific project details or outcomes were not disclosed in the provided text. Why it matters: International collaborations of this nature can help foster innovation and knowledge transfer in the rapidly evolving field of AI.
KAUST Ph.D. student Reem Alghamdi is working at the KAUST Catalysis Center to improve the quality of industrially used polyethylene. Her research focuses on synthesizing a nanocomposite of polyethylene and nanomaterials to reinforce industrially made polymers, improving their mechanical characteristics. The resulting hybrid organic-inorganic product minimizes manufacturing defects, enhancing hardness. Why it matters: This research has the potential to significantly improve the durability and performance of polymer products across various sectors, from automotive to construction, impacting numerous industries in the region and beyond.
KAUST Ph.D. student Khalil Moussi won two awards at the IEEE International Conference on Nano/Micro Engineered and Molecular Systems for his research on a miniaturized drug delivery system. The system, developed in collaboration with KAIMRC, uses 3D printing and wireless power to deliver drugs for coronary artery disease treatment. The device features an electrochemical micro-pump, a 3D printed reservoir with microneedles, and a wireless powering unit, allowing customization for various in vivo drug delivery applications. Why it matters: This recognition highlights KAUST's contributions to biomedical engineering and its potential to develop innovative solutions for critical healthcare challenges in the region and beyond.
Sahika Inal, an assistant professor of bioscience at KAUST, focuses on organic electronic materials for clinical health monitoring. Her research involves finding functional polymers and designing electronic platforms that connect biological systems with electronics. Inal notes that KAUST's facilities and collaborative environment in BESE have been crucial for her research and team growth since 2016. Why it matters: This highlights KAUST's role in fostering interdisciplinary research and attracting talented scientists in the emerging field of bioelectronics.
A robotics team from KAUST's Robotics, Intelligent Systems, and Control (RISC) lab won the "Best Air Team" special award and the European Global Navigation Satellite Systems Agency special prize at the European Robotics League Emergency Robots Challenge in Sevilla, Spain. The KAUST team, led by Kuat Telegenov and advised by Professor Jeff Shamma, competed against international teams in aerial robotic challenges. The competition aimed to encourage advancements in autonomous capabilities and seamless outdoor/indoor navigation for robots. Why it matters: The awards recognize KAUST's contributions to robotics research and highlight the importance of developing autonomous systems for emergency response and complex environments.
KAUST Professor David Keyes will chair the International Supercomputing Conference (ISC) 2020 in Frankfurt, Germany. Keyes is the director of KAUST's Extreme Computing Research Center and will be the first program chair from a Middle Eastern institution. The conference will address high performance computing (HPC) topics including processing, storage, algorithms, and the convergence of simulation, machine learning, and big data. Why it matters: This highlights KAUST's leadership in HPC within the Middle East, as the university is home to Shaheen II, the region's most powerful supercomputer.
Dinesh Nanaji Sawant, a former KAUST postdoctoral fellow, has been appointed as a Deutscher Akademischer Austauschdienst (DAAD) Research Ambassador for India. Sawant, who worked at the KAUST Catalysis Center (KCC) from 2012-2016, is now an assistant professor at the Indian Institute of Technology. As a research ambassador, he will promote research opportunities in Germany to Indian students and facilitate academic cooperation. Why it matters: This appointment highlights KAUST's role in fostering international research collaborations and its alumni's contributions to global scientific exchange.
KAUST Ph.D. students Kai Lu and Yuqing Chen won Best Presentation awards at a Society of Exploration Geophysicists workshop in Beijing. Lu's research focuses on machine learning applications in seismic processing, while Chen uses machine learning for automated semblance spectrum picking. They both leverage KAUST's Shaheen II supercomputer for their work. Why it matters: This highlights the increasing role of AI and ML in the oil and gas industry, and KAUST's contribution to advancing these technologies.
Red Sea Farms, a KAUST spinout specializing in saltwater greenhouse technology, secured $1.9 million in co-investment from the KAUST Innovation Fund and Research Products Development Company (RPDC). Their system uses saltwater to grow crops, reducing freshwater and energy requirements up to tenfold. The investment will enable the company to build a 2,000 square meter saltwater greenhouse on the KAUST campus, with a goal of producing 50 tons of tomatoes annually by 2020. Why it matters: This investment supports sustainable agriculture innovation in the water-scarce Middle East, offering a model for reducing the environmental impact of food production.
KAUST's Prototyping Core Lab, inaugurated in November 2018, offers tools from 3D printers to CNC machines, with expert support for users. The lab has registered over 260 users and delivered 300 training sessions since opening. It supports KAUST programs like hackathons and accelerators, aiding startups such as NOMADD and Sadeem. Why it matters: This lab fosters innovation and entrepreneurship within KAUST and across Saudi Arabia by providing essential prototyping resources and expertise.