Maryam Alsufyani, a KAUST Ph.D. student in the Solar Center under Professor Iain McCulloch, focuses her research on designing and preparing semiconductor organic polymers for solar cells and organic electrical devices. She received her master's degree in chemical science from KAUST in 2018 and her bachelor's in chemistry from Taibah University in Madinah in 2016. Alsufyani aims to complete post-doctoral research after her Ph.D. to educate and support future generations. Why it matters: This highlights KAUST's role in fostering Saudi talent in renewable energy research, a key area for the Kingdom's future economic diversification.
KAUST alumna Maryam Al-Taher, who received her master's degree in chemical science from KAUST in 2015, now works as a laboratory scientist at Saudi Aramco's Fuel Technology Research Department. Her work focuses on increasing fuel efficiency and reducing harmful emissions. Al-Taher credits KAUST's unique atmosphere, research diversity, and top-notch laboratories for her positive experience. Why it matters: This highlights KAUST's role in developing talent for key sectors like energy and sustainability within Saudi Arabia.
Areej Aljarb is a Ph.D. student in material science and engineering at KAUST, researching 2D materials within the KAUST 2D Materials Research Lab under Professors Lain-Jong Li and Xixiang Zhang. Her research focuses on the controlled growth and fundamental phenomena of two-dimensional atomic layer thin materials, specifically controlling the orientation of 2D transition metal dichalcogenides (TMDs). Aljarb aims to achieve single-orientation epitaxial monolayer 2D TMDs to fully utilize the potential of these materials. Why it matters: This highlights KAUST's commitment to fostering local talent and contributing to advanced materials research with potential applications in various technology sectors.
Maram Al-Malki, a KAUST alumna (M.S. '17) in chemistry from the Clean Combustion Research Center, is now pursuing a Ph.D. at KAUST's Advanced Membranes & Porous Materials Center. Her Ph.D. focuses on developing energy consumption strategies for intelligent use of energy sources. Al-Malki advises current students to learn from mistakes and connect with diverse peers. Why it matters: This highlights KAUST's role in fostering local talent and research in sustainable energy solutions, contributing to Saudi Arabia's vision for a diversified and sustainable economy.
Afrah Alothman, a Ph.D. student in marine science at KAUST, is conducting research in the Red Sea, studying the impact of various variables on the marine environment. She collects seawater samples from different depths to measure temperature, nutrients, and salinity, and quantifies carbon uptake by planktonic microorganisms. Her supervisor, Susana Agusti, praised her efforts during a challenging oceanographic cruise. Why it matters: This research contributes to Saudi Vision 2030 by developing local expertise in marine science and understanding the Red Sea ecosystem.