KAUST held its first Enrichment in the Spring (SEP) program from March 20–28, focusing on the human brain and mind, coinciding with Brain Awareness Week. The program featured lectures from neuroscientists like Professor Alim-Louis Benabid, and presentations by KAUST's Ali Awami and Corrado Cali on visualization technology for studying the brain. KAUST researchers are collaborating with the Human Brain Project and Harvard University to develop comprehensive brain models and visualize connectome data. Why it matters: This initiative highlights KAUST's commitment to advancing neuroscience research and fostering interdisciplinary collaborations to understand the complexities of the human brain.
KAUST is hosting "Enrichment in the Spring," a program open to the KAUST community, from March 20-28. The program's theme is the brain and human mind, and will include lectures on neuroscience, language, 3D visualizations of the brain, mind games, and musical performances. The event will also feature community events for all ages and interests. Why it matters: Such programs can foster interdisciplinary collaboration and promote public engagement with science and technology within the KAUST community.
This article reflects on Theo Jansen's visit to KAUST during the 2017 Winter Enrichment Program. It mentions the upcoming Spring Enrichment Program at KAUST. The piece includes a photograph of King Abdullah bin Abdulaziz Al Saud. Why it matters: Such programs foster innovation and collaboration within the KAUST community.
KAUST is promoting its spring enrichment programs. The promotional material features a Mongolian folk group. Why it matters: While a routine announcement, enrichment programs help KAUST attract talent and contribute to local engagement.
Dr. Yves Agid from the ICM Paris Institute of Translational Neuroscience lectured at KAUST's 2018 Winter Enrichment Program about the role of glial cells in brain function and behavior. He highlighted that glial cells, often overlooked in research, are crucial for neural synchronization and overall intelligence. Dysfunction of glial cells can induce pathologies like Alzheimer's and Parkinson's disease. Why it matters: The lecture underscored the importance of studying glial cells in addition to neurons for understanding and treating neurodegenerative disorders, which could influence future research directions at KAUST and in the region.