KAUST researchers are undertaking a project to improve global date palm production and protection by studying the date palm genome, collecting samples from ancient palms near Madinah. They aim to develop new breeding strategies for faster, healthier, and more pest-resistant palms. The research involves advanced genome sequencing and the creation of molecular tools to improve date palm agriculture, including rapid sex determination methods and gene editing. Why it matters: This research is critical for enhancing date production in arid regions like Saudi Arabia, which is a major global producer, and for ensuring food security amidst climate challenges.
KAUST and the Al-Madinah Region Development Authority (MDA) signed an MoU to enhance efficiency, resiliency, and safety in Al-Madinah. KAUST will share high-resolution climate change projections and assess soil loss dynamics. The collaboration aims to tackle challenges in the environmental and water sectors through research, development, and training. Why it matters: This partnership showcases KAUST's role in translating research into practical smart city solutions for regional development, addressing critical environmental concerns.
KAUST startup Sadeem, which provides solar-powered smart city solutions for flood, traffic and environmental monitoring, won the Best Global Startup award in Dubai in 2017. Since then, Sadeem has focused on building its business model and infrastructure to accommodate expansion. Sadeem recently installed its smart city sensors, including the Aura air quality monitor, in Madinah, Saudi Arabia. Why it matters: This expansion demonstrates the potential for Saudi-based startups to provide innovative solutions to local challenges and scale their impact internationally.
Maryam Alsufyani, a KAUST Ph.D. student in the Solar Center under Professor Iain McCulloch, focuses her research on designing and preparing semiconductor organic polymers for solar cells and organic electrical devices. She received her master's degree in chemical science from KAUST in 2018 and her bachelor's in chemistry from Taibah University in Madinah in 2016. Alsufyani aims to complete post-doctoral research after her Ph.D. to educate and support future generations. Why it matters: This highlights KAUST's role in fostering Saudi talent in renewable energy research, a key area for the Kingdom's future economic diversification.
A KAUST-led multidisciplinary research team is studying the feasibility of storing CO2 in subsurface rock structures in Saudi Arabia, specifically in Harrat near Madinah. The project, conducted under the auspices of the Saudi Ministry of Economy and Planning, involves researchers from KAUST, King Abdulaziz University, and MEP. The team is investigating carbon capture and storage as a means to address climate change and meet Saudi Vision 2030 goals. Why it matters: This research could provide a pathway for Saudi Arabia to reduce CO2 emissions and contribute to global climate change mitigation efforts, aligning with the Kingdom's commitment to the Paris Climate Agreement.
KAUST alumnus Ahmad Al-Showail has been appointed dean of the College of Computer Science and IT at the University of Prince Mugrin (UPM) in Madinah. Al-Showail, who graduated from KAUST with a Ph.D. in wireless networking after studying at KFUPM, also founded a startup called "Zayer," a cloud platform for educational tours in Madinah. He participated in the TAQADAM startup accelerator program at KAUST in partnership with SABB. Why it matters: This appointment highlights the growing impact of KAUST alumni in shaping the academic landscape and fostering innovation within Saudi Arabia's emerging universities.