KAUST has launched Hikma, a new accelerator program to develop intellectual property-based startups, involving 16 teams from KAUST and regional universities. The 6-month program is run by the KAUST Entrepreneurship Center with assistance from the KAUST Technology Transfer Office. Hikma aims to provide a structured development process for startups focused on intellectual property and assist in creating homegrown businesses from university technologies. Why it matters: This initiative signals KAUST's commitment to supporting economic development in Saudi Arabia by fostering knowledge-based startups and maximizing the impact of university research.
KAUST Professor Pierre Magistretti participated in the U.S.-Saudi Arabia Business Leaders Virtual Forum, organized by the U.S. Chamber of Commerce and the Saudi Ministry of Investment. Magistretti spoke on a panel about healthcare innovation alongside representatives from Pfizer, Abbott, and the Saudi Ministry of Investment. KAUST's Smart-Health Initiative (SHI) aims to translate scientific discoveries into clinical tools. Why it matters: This participation highlights KAUST's growing role in shaping healthcare innovation within the Kingdom and fostering international collaborations in the field.
Michael Hickner, an Associate Professor from Penn State University, visited KAUST as part of the CRDF-KAUST-OSR Visiting Scholar Fellowship Program. Hickner specializes in Materials Science and Engineering, Chemistry, and Chemical Engineering. The visit was documented with photos by Meres J. Weche. Why it matters: Such programs foster international collaboration and knowledge exchange in science and engineering between KAUST and other leading institutions.
KAUST and the International Medical Center (IMC) have signed an MoU to collaborate on medical research related to wellness, quality of life, and population health management. The partnership aims to develop AI applications for diagnosis and treatment, along with research in precision medicine and advanced therapies. The collaboration aligns with Saudi Vision 2030's goals to build a sustainable, knowledge-driven healthcare future. Why it matters: This agreement signifies a push to integrate AI and precision medicine into practical medical solutions within the Saudi healthcare system.
KAUST alumni and students participated in the first MIT Hacking Medicine event in the Middle East, held in Riyadh at Princess Nourah Bint Abdulrahman University. The event, organized by the MIT-Ibn Khaldun Fellowship Alumni Society and sponsored by King Abdulaziz City for Science and Technology, involved 100 participants working on healthcare, science, engineering, and business development problems. KAUST alumna Haleema Al Amri organized the University's participation, while KAUST alumna Ameerah Bokhari served as a mentor to participating teams. Why it matters: The event fosters collaboration and innovation in healthcare and technology, aligning with Saudi Arabia's focus on advancing these sectors through international partnerships and knowledge exchange.
KAUST Discovery student Leen Al-Jefri presented a poster on broadband digital holographic memories. Another KAUST student, Aljazzy Alahmadi, worked with Professor Omar Abdulsaboor on charge career dynamics between perovskite nanocrystals and molecular acceptors. The work highlights opportunities for gifted Saudi students at KAUST. Why it matters: Developing local talent in advanced STEM fields is crucial for Saudi Arabia's Vision 2030 goals.
KAUST welcomed 12 Saudi academics for orientation as part of the Ibn Rushd Postdoctoral Fellowship Program. The program funds Saudi doctoral graduates to pursue postdoctoral research at top international universities like MIT and University of Toronto. Fellows receive mentorship and access to KAUST facilities and programs. Why it matters: This program aims to develop Saudi talent and increase the number of Saudi scholars at KAUST, contributing to the Kingdom's future leadership in research and innovation.
ICESCO and MBZUAI concluded a series of meetings at Moroccan universities to introduce engineering and science students to AI and scholarship opportunities at MBZUAI. Over 500 master’s and doctoral students participated in the week-long event. MBZUAI representatives highlighted the university's focus on computer vision and machine learning. Why it matters: This collaboration promotes AI education and research opportunities for students in Morocco, potentially fostering AI talent and innovation in the region.