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.
Faris Almalik, an MBZUAI alumnus, discusses his journey from mechanical engineering to becoming a senior data scientist at the Department of Government Enablement – TAMM in Abu Dhabi. Almalik emphasizes his passion for continuous learning and knowledge sharing, which has driven his career across defense, education, finance, and government sectors. He published his first paper on adversarial attacks on medical imaging at MICCAI during his time at MBZUAI. Why it matters: This highlights the success of MBZUAI in producing impactful AI professionals who contribute to both research and practical applications in key sectors within the UAE.
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.
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.
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.