KAUST Professor Niveen Khashab has received the 2023 Cram Lehn Pedersen Prize in Supramolecular Chemistry, a prestigious international award. The prize recognizes her original work in supramolecular chemistry and self-assembly of organic molecules, particularly in designing smart nanomaterials. Khashab will receive the award, along with a £2,000 honorarium, at the 2023 International Symposium on Macrocyclic and Supramolecular Chemistry in Iceland. Why it matters: This award highlights the growing prominence of materials science research in the GCC region and KAUST's contributions to the field of supramolecular chemistry.
KAUST Discovery Associate Professor of Chemical Science Niveen Khashab received a 2017 L’Oréal-UNESCO For Women in Science Award. The award recognizes her research contributions in the field of physical science, specifically organic chemistry. The award highlights the impact of KAUST researchers on the global scientific community. Why it matters: This recognition underscores the growing prominence of women in STEM fields within the Middle East and the increasing global impact of research originating from Saudi Arabia.
KAUST professor Niveen Khashab was named the first Great Arab Mind in natural sciences. The Great Arab Minds award was conceived by Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid al Maktoum to recognize Arabs for achievements in science, architecture, engineering, economics, literature, and medicine. Khashab, an organic chemist, was selected for contributions to nanomaterials development, synthesis, and application in medicine, industry, and agriculture. Why it matters: The award highlights KAUST's role in fostering scientific talent and contributing to advancements in nanotechnology and related fields within the Arab world.
KAUST Professor Mohamed Eddaoudi has won the 2023 Kuwait Prize in chemistry for his work on functional solid-state materials, specifically metal-organic frameworks (MOFs). His research focuses on innovative design strategies for these materials and their applications in gas separations, catalysis, energy storage, and carbon capture. Eddaoudi, a founding faculty member at KAUST since 2009, shares the prize with Prof. Nashaat Nassar from the University of Calgary. Why it matters: The award recognizes KAUST's research excellence and highlights the importance of materials science for energy and environmental sustainability within the Arab world.
KAUST researchers led by Dr. Niveen Khashab have developed thermosensitive liposomes for controlled drug release, particularly in cancer therapies. The liposomes are designed to release drugs only when they reach heated tumor tissue, minimizing systemic side effects. Cholesterol moieties are used as anchors to create a "nail" or "comb" effect, enabling temperature-triggered drug release inside cells. Why it matters: This targeted drug delivery system could significantly improve the efficacy and reduce the toxicity of cancer treatments.