Ten KAUST faculty members were promoted at a gala dinner ceremony on May 8, recognizing their accomplishments. KAUST President Jean-Lou Chameau honored the faculty, including Mohamed Eddaoudi, a leader in metal-organic frameworks (MOFs), and Marc Genton, focused on spatio-temporal data analysis. Eddaoudi's work includes innovations in battery-electrode separators, while Genton's research spans environmental science and renewable energies. Why it matters: Recognizing and promoting faculty talent at KAUST can help further boost the university's reputation as a leading destination for research and innovation in science and technology within the region.
The 7th annual Global Competitiveness Forum (GCF) was held in Riyadh, gathering experts including KAUST President Jean-Lou Chameau. The forum focused on building competitive partnerships and developing world-class infrastructure in Saudi Arabia. President Chameau discussed fostering entrepreneurship, leveraging technology, and the role of research universities in innovation ecosystems, highlighting KAUST's contributions. Why it matters: This participation highlights KAUST's ongoing efforts to build an innovation ecosystem in Saudi Arabia and its role in translating research into commercial ventures.
KAUST held an alumni celebration in collaboration with Saudi Aramco to honor alumni achievements. Saudi Aramco emphasized its commitment to talent development as the largest employer of KAUST alumni. Dr. Jean-Lou Chameau encouraged alumni to contribute to society and advance KAUST as a hub of education and discovery. Why it matters: This event strengthens ties between KAUST and Saudi Aramco, highlighting KAUST's role in developing talent for the Kingdom's key industries.
SABIC reaffirmed its commitment to supporting research at KAUST during a meeting between SABIC's Vice Chairman and CEO, Mohamed Al-Mady, and KAUST's President, Dr. Jean-Lou Chameau. Discussions covered SABIC’s technology and innovation strategy, KAUST's research initiatives, and talent development programs sponsored by SABIC at KAUST. Since 2011, SABIC has recruited around 40 KAUST-trained scientists and researchers. Why it matters: This continued collaboration strengthens the ties between industry and academia in Saudi Arabia, fostering innovation and developing local talent in areas relevant to the Kingdom's industrial goals.
KAUST President Jean-Lou Chameau spoke at the 5th Annual Saudi International Technology Incubation Conference in Riyadh. He emphasized that universities are catalysts for innovation through a commitment to excellence in education and research. KAUST was created to be a model for advanced education, scientific research, and economic development. Why it matters: The discussion highlights the crucial role of universities like KAUST in fostering innovation and economic growth in transitional economies like those in the GCC.
KAUST's Interim President Nadhmi Al-Nasr addressed the graduating class of 2017, emphasizing their potential in science and technology. He thanked the Board of Trustees, industry partners, faculty, and staff for their support. The commencement speaker was KAUST’s former president, Dr. Jean-Lou Chameau, who was lauded for advancing KAUST's reputation and fostering collaboration. Why it matters: While routine, the remarks highlight KAUST's ongoing commitment to developing scientific talent and fostering partnerships within the Kingdom.
KAUST celebrated its eighth Commencement ceremony on December 15, 2017, with 110 master’s degree and 76 Ph.D. graduates. Interim President Nadhmi Al-Nasr presided over the ceremony, with speeches from Hassan Alsibyani and former KAUST President Dr. Jean-Lou Chameau. Chameau encouraged graduates to uphold the values learned at KAUST and strive to have an impact with integrity. Why it matters: Showcases KAUST's role in developing a new generation of scientists and engineers in Saudi Arabia.
KAUST held its seventh commencement ceremony. The ceremony included speeches from President Jean-Lou Chameau and Andrew N. Liveris, CEO of The Dow Chemical Company. The event celebrated the graduating class. Why it matters: While a routine event, commencement ceremonies highlight KAUST's ongoing role in developing technical talent for Saudi Arabia.