Marcus Engsig from DERC will present a paper at the MATLAB User Group Meeting in Abu Dhabi on October 6. The paper, titled ‘Generalization of Higher Order Methods For Fast Iterative Matrix Inversion Compatible With GPU Acceleration’, discusses a novel approach to matrix inversion using GPUs. The method, named Nested Neumann, achieves 4-100x acceleration compared to standard MATLAB methods for large matrices. Why it matters: This research contributes to faster computation in numerical and physical modeling, crucial for processing large datasets in various scientific and engineering applications in the region.
KAUST student Nawaf Alghamdi received a grant from the King Abdulaziz City for Science and Technology (KACST) for his work on "Upgrading Low-Grade Feedstocks Using Catalytic Pyrolysis". The grant will support Alghamdi's Ph.D. research at KAUST for two years under the supervision of Professor Mani Sarathy. KACST's GPURC program aims to develop scientific skills among graduate students and boost Saudi Arabia's position in science and technology. Why it matters: This grant exemplifies Saudi Arabia's strategic investment in cultivating local talent in STEM fields and fostering research collaboration between KAUST and national institutions.
QRC has developed Qibo, a Python library enabling classical simulation of quantum algorithms with double precision. Qibo leverages hardware accelerators like GPUs and CPUs with multi-threading. It incorporates a multi-GPU distributed approach for circuit simulation. Why it matters: This framework allows researchers and developers in the region to explore and prototype quantum algorithms using existing classical computing infrastructure, fostering innovation in quantum computing research and applications.
The Autonomous Robotics Research Center (ARRC) at Abu Dhabi’s Technology Innovation Institute (TII) has appointed a board of advisors composed of globally-recognized experts in robotics and autonomous systems. The advisors include professors from Georgia Tech, ETH Zurich, University of Bologna, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, NYU, and Czech Technical University. The board will guide ARRC's research into robotics technologies aimed at building hybrid biological and artificial systems. Why it matters: This signals the UAE's continued investment in attracting top international expertise to advance its AI and robotics research capabilities.
Giuseppe Loianno from NYU presented research on creating "Super Autonomous" robots (USARC) that are Unmanned, Small, Agile, Resilient, and Collaborative. The research focuses on learning models, control, and navigation policies for single and collaborative robots operating in challenging environments. The talk highlighted the potential of these robots in logistics, reconnaissance, and other time-sensitive tasks. Why it matters: This points to growing research interest in advanced robotics in the region, especially given the focus on smart cities and automation.
The Propulsion and Space Research Center (PSRC) has appointed three new advisors: Prof. Dr. Roberto Sabatini, Dr. Mohamed Al Ahbabi, and Prof. Dr. Pericles Pilidis. These experts bring experience in aerospace, defense, space exploration, and gas turbine performance. The appointments aim to strengthen PSRC's research capabilities and contribute to the UAE's space exploration goals. Why it matters: The addition of experienced advisors signals the UAE's continued investment in building local expertise in advanced aerospace technologies and space exploration.
Researchers present RUR53, an unmanned ground vehicle (UGV) capable of autonomous navigation, object recognition, and tool manipulation. The UGV uses a modular software architecture, enabling it to perform complex tasks like detecting panels, docking, and manipulating tools such as wrenches and valve stems. RUR53 was tested at the 2017 Mohamed Bin Zayed International Robotics Challenge where it ranked third in the Grand Challenge as part of a collaboration. Why it matters: This research demonstrates advanced robotics capabilities applicable to various industrial and inspection tasks, highlighting the UAE's focus on robotics innovation.
The Directed Energy Research Center (DERC) is partnering with Montena Technology to study high-altitude electromagnetic pulses and design infrastructure safeguards. DERC is also collaborating with Radaz to evaluate ground penetrating and synthetic aperture radars in Abu Dhabi, aiming to identify natural resources. Additionally, DERC and Université de Picardie Jules Verne are working on laser sources and sensors, with a DERC researcher spending four years in France. Why it matters: These partnerships enhance DERC's research capabilities in critical areas like infrastructure protection, resource exploration, and advanced sensing technologies.