Deanna Lacoste is an assistant professor of mechanical engineering in KAUST's Physical Science and Engineering Division. She is featured in a "Faculty Focus" section. Why it matters: This is a routine faculty highlight from KAUST.
Alejandra Ortega, a Ph.D. student in bioscience at KAUST, researches carbon fluxes of mangrove, seagrass, and macroalgae, focusing on estimating marine plants' contribution to blue carbon sequestration using metagenomes and eDNA barcoding. She aims to aid environmental managers and policymakers in better estimating blue carbon budgets for marine conservation. Ortega co-founded the Science Crossroads Initiative (SCI) at KAUST to explore the intersection of science with disciplines like philosophy, history, and the arts. Why it matters: This highlights KAUST's research into blue carbon sequestration and the university's focus on interdisciplinary initiatives to foster science communication and community engagement.
Joanna Nassar, a KAUST alumna (Ph.D. '17, M.S. '13) in electrical engineering, is now a postdoctoral fellow at Caltech in the Department of Medical Engineering. Nassar credits KAUST's facilities and research opportunities for helping her achieve her goals and grow academically. Her research focuses on developing affordable and accessible wearable and implantable electronics for preventive disease detection. Why it matters: This highlights KAUST's role in training researchers who are contributing to advancements in healthcare technology.
Antonio Adamo is an assistant professor of bioscience in the Biological and Environmental Science and Engineering Division at KAUST. He is highlighted in a KAUST faculty focus. Why it matters: Showcases KAUST's faculty expertise in bioscience.
KAUST Associate Professor Taous-Meriem Laleg-Kirati leads the Estimation, Modeling and ANalysis (EMAN) research group, focusing on control theory, system modeling, and signal applications. Her group develops mathematical models and algorithms to control processes relying on real-time feedback, especially for systems where experimental data is limited. The EMAN group recently developed a real-time control algorithm for a solar membrane distillation system, increasing water production by over 50% in simulations. Why it matters: Laleg-Kirati's work advances both engineering and healthcare by combining model-based research with AI, offering opportunities for personalized medicine and efficient resource management in the region.