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.
KAUST Associate Professor Taous-Meriem Laleg-Kirati was a finalist in the academic of distinction category at the Leadership Excellence for Women Awards & Symposium (LEWAS) in Bahrain in 2018. She was nominated by former KAUST researchers for her achievements in science and engineering and her advocacy for women in science. Laleg-Kirati's research at KAUST focuses on control engineering and signal processing with applications in solar energy, water desalination, and biomedicine. Why it matters: The recognition highlights the importance of female leadership and contributions in STEM fields within the GCC region.
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.
Peter Richtárik, an associate professor of computer science and mathematics, joined KAUST in February 2017. He is affiliated with the Visual Computing Center and the Extreme Computing Research Center at KAUST. Richtárik's research combines optimization and machine learning, and he values the support KAUST provides to his students, including funding for travel and conference attendance. Why it matters: This highlights KAUST's commitment to attracting and supporting leading researchers in AI and related fields, fostering innovation and talent development in the region.
Najwa Aaraj, Chief Researcher at the Cryptography Research Centre at TII, has joined MBZUAI as the first female faculty member in the Machine Learning Department. Aaraj leads R&D of cryptographic technologies, including post-quantum cryptography and lightweight cryptographic libraries. Her research will focus on the intersection of cryptography, cybersecurity, and machine learning, including using ML for cryptanalysis and protecting ML models with cryptography. Why it matters: This appointment strengthens MBZUAI's expertise in a critical area of AI security and cryptography, fostering cross-disciplinary research and innovation in the UAE.