KAUST alumna Haleema Alamri, a 2016 Ph.D. graduate in Physical Science and Engineering, was nominated to join the Ibn Khaldun Fellowship at MIT as a postdoctoral fellow, after joining Saudi Aramco as a research scientist. During her fellowship, she conducted research in chemistry and polymer science. Alamri participated in the Innovation to Impact forum during Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman's visit to MIT in 2018. Why it matters: This highlights KAUST's role in developing Saudi female scientists and contributing to Saudi Vision 2030 through advanced research and international collaborations.
KAUST alumna Haleema Alamri is now Director of the Innovation and Technology Observatory at the Saudi Ministry of Energy. Alamri's work supports developing a domestic skilled-leadership pipeline, advancing the Ministry’s energy localization goals. She emphasizes KAUST’s role in preparing talent for the energy sector and its alignment with Saudi Vision 2030. Why it matters: This highlights KAUST's strategic importance in supporting Saudi Arabia's energy sector localization and leadership development in line with Vision 2030.
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.
Mona Alsomali, who graduated from KAUST in 2016 with a Ph.D. in bioscience-microbial genomics, is now a senior microbiologist. She is currently employed at the Dow Middle East Innovation Center (MEIC)/KAUST. The center is located at KAUST. Why it matters: This highlights KAUST's role in producing skilled graduates who contribute to scientific innovation in the region.
KAUST alumna Dina Bashir Abusamra, who received her master's degree in 2010 and Ph.D. in 2016 from KAUST, is now a postdoctoral research fellow at the Schepens Eye Research Institute of Massachusetts Eye and Ear, an affiliate of Harvard Medical School. Her early research at KAUST focused on understanding the mechanisms by which transplanted hematopoietic stem cells home back to bone marrow, specifically studying glycan-binding proteins like selectin. She now studies the role of glycan-binding proteins and galectins in microenvironment modulation. Why it matters: This highlights the impact of KAUST in fostering scientific talent and contributing to research in biomedical engineering and bioscience, with alumni now making contributions at leading international research institutions.