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.
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.
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.
KAUST researchers are developing a streamlined COVID-19 diagnostic testing method using superparamagnetic nanoparticles (MNPs). The team, led by Assistant Professor Mo Li, aims to address reagent shortages and improve automation by creating an in-house extraction kit compatible with inactivated samples. Associate Professor Samir Hamdan identified a protocol for making silica-coated MNPs that survive inactivation reagents, enabling magnetic separation without centrifugation. Why it matters: This innovation could significantly increase testing capacity in Saudi Arabia and globally by reducing biosafety risks, reagent dependence, and manual processing.
KAUST has acquired a BM Pro plasma-enhanced chemical vapor deposition (PE-CVD) reactor from AIXTRON for wafer-scale deposition of graphene and carbon nanotubes. The reactor, capable of handling up to 4-inch substrates, will be used by Professor Pedro Da Costa's research team initially, before being opened up to other researchers at KAUST. AIXTRON's VP highlighted the system's uniformity, scalability, rapid heating, and plasma-based processing for growing graphene and nanotubes. Why it matters: This advanced tool enhances KAUST's research capabilities in carbon nanostructures, positioning the university as a leading center for materials science and nanotechnology research in the region.
KAUST spin-out company NOMADD, which specializes in robotic PV cleaning systems, has secured a Series B investment from Saudi construction company CEPCO. The investment will support NOMADD's project pipeline and growth ambitions, enabling them to scale operations and serve more customers. CEPCO will also advise on technology development and local manufacturing in Saudi Arabia. Why it matters: This investment validates KAUST's innovation fund strategy and supports the deployment of sustainable energy solutions in the region, leveraging local expertise and manufacturing.