KAUST alumnus Nasir Alfaraj is conducting research at the University of Toronto, focusing on energy-efficient semiconductor technologies. His doctoral work at KAUST under Professor Boon S. Ooi explored deep-ultraviolet optoelectronics using wide-bandgap semiconductors. Alfaraj credits KAUST's interdisciplinary environment, facilities, and mentorship for shaping his research approach and preparing him for advanced roles. Why it matters: This highlights KAUST's role in training researchers who are contributing to semiconductor innovation, an area of strategic importance for Saudi Arabia's Vision 2030.
KAUST researchers Dr. Islam Ashry, Dr. Chun Hong Kang, and Professor Boon S. Ooi won the 2022 International Date Palm Innovative Technology Excellence Prize from the National Center for Palm and Dates (NCPD) for their fiber-optic distributed acoustic sensor. The sensor enables early detection of red palm weevils in date palm trees, a major problem in the Middle East, Southeast Asia, and Europe. The prize includes a SAR 200,000 reward. Why it matters: This award recognizes innovative research addressing a critical agricultural challenge in the region, with potential for significant economic impact by reducing losses from infestations.
KAUST Professor Boon S. Ooi has been named an IEEE Fellow for his contributions to broadband light emitters and visible light communications. Ooi's work in semiconductor photonics has led to the establishment of successful startups. He is among the first to propose energy-efficient lighting and ultra-high-speed visible light communication using semiconductor lasers. Why it matters: Recognition of KAUST faculty demonstrates the institution's growing prominence in advanced technology research and its impact on global innovation.
KAUST Professor of Electrical Engineering Boon S. Ooi has been elected as a Fellow of the U.S. National Academy of Inventors (NAI). This honor recognizes Ooi's contributions to semiconductor photonics, optical sensors, and particularly his work on fiber sensors for oil & gas and agriculture. Ooi's inventions are relevant to communications, health, energy and agriculture. Why it matters: This recognition highlights KAUST's and the region's increasing contributions to impactful research and innovation in areas like optical sensing and semiconductor photonics.
KAUST Ph.D. student Jorge Holguín-Lerma received a 2019 Optics and Photonics Education Scholarship from SPIE for his research contributions to optics and photonics. Holguín-Lerma is a member of Professor Boon S. Ooi's Photonics Laboratory at KAUST, focusing on novel semiconductor lasers and superluminescent diodes. His research aims to improve technologies like LiFi, LIDAR, and biosensors. Why it matters: This award recognizes KAUST's contributions to advanced research in photonics and optics, highlighting the university's role in developing innovative technologies with wide-ranging applications.