SaudiVax, located in the KAUST Research & Technology Park, is collaborating with the University of Pittsburgh and Merck France to develop a COVID-19 antibody injection. The antibody both protects against potential infection and neutralizes the virus in those already infected. SaudiVax is utilizing KAUST expertise and has contracted with Merck France for manufacturing since suitable facilities are not yet available in Saudi Arabia. Why it matters: This partnership highlights the growing biopharmaceutical capabilities in Saudi Arabia and the potential for KAUST to serve as a hub for medical innovation in the region.
Agathe Guilloux, a professor in Data Science at Evry Paris Saclay University, presented on machine learning algorithms for precision medicine at MBZUAI. Her talk covered the main challenges of precision medicine and how AI can address them. She also discussed algorithms developed for decision support tools. Why it matters: This highlights MBZUAI's role as a platform for discussing advanced AI applications in healthcare, even when the research is not directly conducted in the GCC.
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.
Jasmeen Merzaban, a KAUST assistant professor of bioscience, received a L'Oréal-UNESCO For Women in Science International Rising Talents award at a ceremony in Paris on March 24. Merzaban's research focuses on immunology and stem cell research. The award recognizes her contributions to science and potential for future impact. Why it matters: This award highlights the growing scientific expertise and recognition of researchers at KAUST and in Saudi Arabia.
KAUST and Bruker Corporation have launched the KAUST–Bruker Center of Excellence (CoE) in Magnetic Resonance, formalizing a long-standing collaboration. The CoE will provide KAUST users access to cutting-edge magnetic resonance technologies and serve as a training site. Bruker showcased advanced technologies including the world's first 900 MHz wide-bore NMR spectrometer and a 500 MHz super wide-bore MRI spectrometer. Why it matters: This CoE enhances KAUST's position as a leading research institution in the region and fosters innovation in magnetic resonance research and applications.
KAUST research engineer Samy Ould-Chikh is collaborating with the Néel Institute-CNRS at the European Synchrotron Radiation Facility (ESRF) in France. They are using the ESRF's high-energy synchrotron light source to study the inner structure of matter at the atomic and molecular levels. Ould-Chikh's research focuses on catalysis and functional materials, with an emphasis on renewable energy and photocatalysis. Why it matters: This collaboration highlights KAUST's engagement with leading international research institutions to advance materials science and energy research.
The Saudi Vaccine and Biomanufacturing Center (SVBC), the first of its kind in the Middle East, broke ground at KAUST on December 15. The center will develop vaccines and biopharmaceutical products under good manufacturing practice (GMP) standards. It is a joint project championed by the Ministry of Energy, Industry and Mineral Resources through the Industrial Clusters Program and supported by KACST. Why it matters: The center will serve as a national platform for pharmaceutical innovation and address epidemic risks in the Kingdom, such as MERS-CoV.
The Research Products Development Company (RPDC) signed an agreement with The Saudi Vaccine and Biomanufacturing Center (SVBC) to establish a research and industrial center in Saudi Arabia for vaccine and biopharmaceutical development. Supported by KACST and hosted by KAUST, the SVBC will provide a state-of-the-art facility and a training platform. Cooperation agreements were also signed with GE for equipment supply and with Fujifilm Dayosent Biotechnology for MERS-CoV treatment development. Why it matters: This initiative aims to localize vaccine and advanced treatment industries in Saudi Arabia, create technical jobs, and reduce reliance on imports in line with Vision 2030.