KAUST researchers in collaboration with NASA discovered 26 new bacterial species thriving in NASA cleanrooms. These species possess genetic traits that suggest they can survive the harsh conditions of space travel. The study analyzed the genetic traits of extremophiles to understand the risk of their transfer in space missions. Why it matters: This research supports Saudi Arabia's space vision and KAUST's role in microbial and space biology, aiding NASA in anticipating microorganisms encountered in space missions.
KAUST has established the KAUST Quantum Foundry to strengthen Saudi Arabia’s ability to fabricate commercial quantum hardware. It will provide shared access to KAUST quantum cleanrooms, supporting device prototyping and process development. The Foundry will focus on process standardization and the development of Process Design Kits (PDKs) to enable researchers to design and fabricate devices. Why it matters: This initiative reinforces KAUST's role as a national hub for advanced research infrastructure and supports Saudi Arabia’s long-term innovation priorities in quantum technologies.
KAUST has launched vFabLab™, its first virtual lab, to provide online distance learning for semiconductor fabrication. The virtual environment trains users on end-to-end device fabrication sequences using CMOS technology. Developed by KAUST's CEMSE division, each training session includes an interactive Q&A. Why it matters: This virtual lab expands access to crucial experimental modules in semiconductor fabrication, particularly benefiting students and enthusiasts lacking access to expensive cleanroom facilities in the region.
In November 2017, students from KFUPM's Electrical Engineering department visited KAUST's Nanofabrication Core Lab (NCL). The students toured the campus and the KAUST Core Labs facilities and were shown processing equipment in the NCL cleanroom. Demonstrations on micro and nanofabrication techniques were also conducted. Why it matters: While dated, the article highlights the importance of collaboration and knowledge sharing between Saudi universities in developing future researchers in nanotechnology.
KAUST has inaugurated its Clean Combustion Research Center (CCRC), five years after its initial planning. The center is composed of seven faculty members and a team of eighty people, focusing on combustion research to address future energy and environmental challenges. CCRC has already attracted industrial funding from companies like Saudi Aramco. Why it matters: The center will provide a boost to research and development in sustainable energy and reduced emissions technologies within Saudi Arabia and the broader region.
Azure Robotics, a KAUST startup, won a 100,000 SAR award from the KACST Combating COVID-19 Accelerator. Their winning project uses AI-enabled robots with UV light to disinfect large public spaces like airports and hospitals. The AI-powered robotic solution is reportedly six times more efficient than traditional human disinfection methods. Why it matters: This highlights the growing role of AI and robotics in addressing public health challenges in the region, with KAUST playing a key role in fostering related innovation.
KAUST startup Wayakit has inaugurated its first production pilot plant in Saudi Arabia, with a capacity of up to 20,000 liters of cleaning and disinfection bio-formulations per day. The plant aims to satisfy national demand for cleaning and disinfection products. Wayakit's products tackle the transmission of communicable diseases, contributing to both the national economy and the health of citizens. Why it matters: This pilot plant supports Saudi Vision 2030's National Industrial Strategy by building a sustainable facility for environmentally friendly cleaning products.
NOMADD, a KAUST startup, offers a waterless and remotely operated system to clean solar panels, addressing the challenge of dust accumulation which can reduce solar panel efficiency by 0.4-0.8% daily. KAUST recently signed its first royalty-bearing license agreement for the NOMADD system. The fifth version of the NOMADD system is 70% lighter and uses less than half the power of previous versions, while also being cheaper to manufacture. Why it matters: This technology is crucial for Saudi Arabia to achieve its ambitious goal of generating a third of its electricity from solar power by 2032, amidst the challenges posed by desert dust.