Afrah Alothman, a Ph.D. student in marine science at KAUST, is conducting research in the Red Sea, studying the impact of various variables on the marine environment. She collects seawater samples from different depths to measure temperature, nutrients, and salinity, and quantifies carbon uptake by planktonic microorganisms. Her supervisor, Susana Agusti, praised her efforts during a challenging oceanographic cruise. Why it matters: This research contributes to Saudi Vision 2030 by developing local expertise in marine science and understanding the Red Sea ecosystem.
KAUST Ph.D. student Afrah Alothman is participating in the OceanX mission, exploring the Red Sea using advanced technology like manned submersibles. Alothman, also a mother of four, previously studied at King Faisal University and Dalhousie University, focusing on marine biology and climate change. She is the only Arab woman working on Phase 1 of the OceanXmission. Why it matters: This highlights KAUST's role in marine research and the increasing participation of Arab women in STEM fields, addressing critical environmental challenges in the region.
Ahmad Alabdulghani, a KAUST master's student in Energy Resources and Petroleum Engineering, is studying fluid flow mechanisms in heterogeneous media under the supervision of Professor Hussein Hoteit. Alabdulghani is a member of the Advanced Reservoir Modeling and Simulation (ARMS) research group at ANPERC. He previously worked at Saudi Aramco's EXPEC Advanced Research Center and aims to pursue a doctorate at KAUST. Why it matters: This highlights KAUST's role in developing Saudi talent for the energy sector and fostering collaboration between academia and industry.
Dalal Alezi, a Ph.D. student in KAUST's Physical Science and Engineering Division, has received the inaugural PSE Division Student Award. Alezi is a fourth-year Ph.D. candidate. The award recognizes outstanding Ph.D. candidates within the division. Why it matters: The award highlights KAUST's commitment to recognizing and supporting exceptional talent in science and engineering.
Former Saudi Research Science Institute (SRSI) student Abdullatif, now a junior at Berkeley, published a paper in the Journal of the American Chemical Society (JACS). The paper, "Isomerically Pure Tetramethylrhodamine Voltage Reporters," details the design, synthesis, and application of Rhodamine Voltage Reporters (RhoVRs). Abdullatif, who worked at KAUST during her SRSI program on carbon dioxide capture, plans to return for advanced studies. Why it matters: This highlights KAUST's role in nurturing young Saudi talent in STEM and contributing to high-impact scientific research.
KAUST alumnus Dr. Hesham Omran won the UNESCO-Al Fozan International Prize for achievements in STEM. Omran was recognized for his Analog Designer’s Toolbox (ADT) and his Mastering Microelectronics YouTube channel, which has over 1.2 million views. Omran aims to boost microelectronics innovation in the Arab world. Why it matters: The award highlights the impact of KAUST graduates on STEM fields in the region and recognizes contributions to education and innovation in microelectronics.
KAUST alumnus Albara Alauhali (M.S. '11) is the executive advisor and director of strategic projects at the National Identity Enhancement Program, which is aligned with Saudi Vision 2030. Alauhali holds a master's degree in computer science from KAUST and a bachelor's degree in computer science from King Fahd University of Petroleum and Minerals. He has held positions at Saudi Aramco's King Abdulaziz Center for World Culture and the Ministry of Economy and Planning. Why it matters: This highlights the career path of a KAUST graduate contributing to Saudi Arabia's strategic national programs.
KAUST Ph.D. student Manal Al-Qahtani won a best poster presentation award. The award was presented in the late summer of 2016. The announcement was made on the KAUST website. Why it matters: Showcases the achievements and talent within KAUST's Ph.D. program.