Peiying Hong, an associate professor of environmental science and engineering at KAUST, has won the 2019 James J. Morgan Environmental Science & Technology Early Career Award. The award recognizes her contributions to environmental science, particularly her research on wastewater and its potential for addressing global water scarcity. Hong will receive the award at the 257th American Chemical Society National Meeting & Exposition in Orlando, Florida. Why it matters: This award highlights KAUST's contributions to environmental research and its focus on addressing critical global challenges related to water scarcity and sustainability.
KAUST researchers presented their work on stabilizing nanoparticle catalysts at the 252nd American Chemical Society Meeting & Exposition. The team devised a "molecular Scotch tape" using a silica gel support coated with a single molecule layer of soft material containing sulfur. This approach allows nanoparticles to stick to one side while leaving the other side free for catalysis, preventing aggregation without killing the catalyst. Why it matters: This innovation in catalyst stabilization could lead to more efficient and sustainable chemical processes, impacting various industries.
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 professor Nikos Hadjichristidis received the 2016 Macro Group U.K. Medal for Continued Outstanding Achievement in Polymer Science. This marks his third major award, following recognition from Japan (2007) and the American Chemical Society (2015). Hadjichristidis is known for creating unique macromolecular architectures and establishing a world-class Polymer Synthesis Laboratory at KAUST. Why it matters: Recognition of KAUST faculty highlights the university's contribution to advanced materials science and its role in fostering scientific expertise within Saudi Arabia.
KAUST Professor Nikos Hadjichristidis received the ACS Award in Polymer Chemistry at the 249th American Chemical Society National Meeting & Exposition. The award, sponsored by ExxonMobil Chemical Company, is the highest honor in polymer science. Hadjichristidis's research focuses on synthesizing polymeric materials with complex macromolecular architectures and collaborating with SABIC on polyethylene-based polymeric materials. Why it matters: This award recognizes KAUST's contributions to advanced materials research and highlights the importance of polymer science for industrial applications within Saudi Arabia, particularly in collaboration with companies like SABIC and ExxonMobil.
KAUST Professor Nikos Hadjichristidis was selected as a 2014 POLY Fellow by the Polymer Chemistry Division of the American Chemical Society for his contributions to polymer science. With over 450 papers and 19 patents, his research focuses on synthesizing model polymers to improve polymer performance and design new materials. He aims to educate students, particularly Saudi students, and establish polymer science research at KAUST. Why it matters: This award highlights KAUST's growing prominence in materials science and its commitment to fostering local talent in advanced scientific fields.
This article describes KAUST's participation in the American Chemical Society (ACS) event in Washington, D.C. in August. KAUST's team engaged with conference attendees at their booth. The article includes photos from the event. Why it matters: This highlights KAUST's efforts to engage with the international scientific community and promote its research and programs.
The KAUST booth at the 2017 American Chemical Society conference in San Francisco attracted potential students and staff. Justin Mynar, Director of the KAUST Core Labs, engaged with attendees. KAUST staff also interacted with visitors to provide information about the university's offerings. Why it matters: This type of outreach helps KAUST attract international talent and build its reputation within the global scientific community.