KAUST has appointed Dr. Donal Bradley as the new Vice President for Research, effective April 7, 2019, replacing Dr. Jean Frechet. Dr. Bradley was previously the Dean for Science and Engineering at Oxford University and has held positions at Imperial College London, with extensive experience in research administration. He is a distinguished scientist with over 630 publications and more than twenty-five patent families. Why it matters: This appointment signals KAUST's continued commitment to attracting top international talent to lead its research initiatives and maintain its position as a leading science and technology university in the region.
KAUST Professors Jean Frechet and Charlotte Hauser were elected as Fellows of the National Academy of Inventors (NAI). Both professors were inducted into the NAI in 2015. The NAI held a ceremony on April 15 in Washington, D.C. where the professors received their NAI medals. Why it matters: Recognition of KAUST faculty by NAI highlights the university's increasing role in fostering impactful research and innovation.
In 2013, KAUST faculty members Jean Frechet and Yves Gnanou received international awards recognizing their scientific contributions. Nina Fedoroff was also awarded the 2013 Nevada Medal for achievements in science and engineering. KAUST research was featured in high-impact journals across diverse fields, and a KAUST Seed Fund winner launched an iPad housing device for underwater use that was featured by Apple. Why it matters: These achievements highlight KAUST's growing reputation as a hub for scientific research and innovation in the region and globally.
KAUST hosted a Future Faculty Program convention. Najah Ashry, KAUST VP of Saudi Initiatives, and Jean Frechet, KAUST VP for research, spoke at the event. The convention hosted visitors from Saudi public and private universities. Why it matters: The event likely aimed to foster collaboration and faculty development within the Saudi higher education system.