MBZUAI alumnus Sulaiman AlJanahi is helping reshape the UAE's payments landscape as a founding member and associate project manager at Al Etihad Payments, a subsidiary of the Central Bank of the UAE. AlJanahi's work focuses on the Aani instant payment system, building on his M.Sc. research on optimization techniques for federated learning. He credits MBZUAI for instilling discipline and a strong work ethic, preparing him for the demands of a fast-paced startup environment. Why it matters: This highlights MBZUAI's role in contributing to the UAE's digital transformation and cashless society initiatives through its graduates' involvement in key national projects.
Mohammed Abdulrahman AlNamazi (Ph.D. '17) is the acting director general and director of research and consulting at the Desalination Technologies Research Institute (DTRI). He chose KAUST for his Ph.D. due to the collaboration between SWCC and KAUST's Water Desalination and Reuse Center (WDRC). AlNamazi highlights KAUST's environment, infrastructure, and faculty as key strengths, noting the impact on his research and network. Why it matters: This highlights KAUST's role in developing local talent in critical sectors like desalination, aligning with Saudi Arabia's focus on sustainable technologies.
Qana A. Al-Sulami, a KAUST chemical science Ph.D. graduate (2016), is now an assistant professor at King Abdulaziz University (KAU). She recalls her time at KAUST fondly, citing the state-of-the-art research environment and diverse community. Al-Sulami emphasizes the value of academic relationships fostered at KAUST and their impact on her career and contributions to the Ministry of Education. Why it matters: The article highlights KAUST's role in developing Saudi talent in STEM fields and fostering connections between KAUST alumni and Saudi institutions.
KAUST alumna Mona AlSaydlani (M.S. '13) is a founding class member who researched water desalination techniques under Professor Ingo Pinnau. She now works as a lead engineer in business communications at the Dow Middle East Innovation Center (MEIC) located on the KAUST campus, focusing on media, stakeholder relations, sustainability, and R&D. AlSaydlani also designs roadmaps for Dow Business activities and supports the Women's Innovation Network (WIN) at Dow Saudi Arabia. Why it matters: This highlights the career paths and contributions of KAUST alumni in industry, particularly in linking academic research with industrial applications and supporting women in STEM.
MBZUAI alumnus Steven Hoang, a 2023 Machine Learning graduate, is now an AI engineer at Wells Fargo, where he contributes to the company's AI strategy. Previously, Hoang worked at AbbVie as a natural language software developer and agentic AI software engineer. Hoang credits his time at MBZUAI for preparing him for this significant role, where he collaborates across departments and considers the broader impact of AI initiatives. Why it matters: This success story highlights MBZUAI's role in developing talent capable of leading AI initiatives at major global financial institutions.