Explorer Mike Horn gave a keynote lecture at KAUST's Winter Enrichment Program (WEP) about his pioneering expeditions. Horn recounted his solo journey around the Equator and his circumnavigation of the Arctic Circle. He also shared experiences from trekking to the North Pole during the Arctic winter. Why it matters: While not directly about AI, the talk highlights KAUST's broader mission to inspire innovation and exploration across diverse fields, which can indirectly foster a culture of creativity relevant to AI research.
British author and explorer Alastair Humphreys visited KAUST as part of the Enrichment in the Spring program. Humphreys, known for trekking across the Empty Quarter, shared his adventures with the KAUST community. The event aimed to bring a sense of adventure to the university. Why it matters: Such events enhance the cultural and intellectual environment at KAUST, fostering a broader perspective among students and faculty.
French freediving champion Guillaume Néry spoke at KAUST's Winter Enrichment Program (WEP) about pushing human limits underwater. Néry, who beat the world record three times, can dive to a depth of 125 meters while holding his breath for up to seven minutes and forty-two seconds. He recounted discovering his calling at age 15 and later becoming world champion in 2011. Why it matters: This talk highlights KAUST's commitment to showcasing diverse achievements and explorations of human potential, even outside traditional scientific fields.
KAUST's Beacon Development (KBD) is a key partner in the Heart of Arabia expedition, retracing a 750-mile journey across Saudi Arabia. The expedition aims to advance human performance understanding in extreme environments and deepen knowledge of pre-Islamic history and local biodiversity. KBD's Terrestrial Ecology and Conservation team is advising the field science component, providing equipment and expertise for data collection. Why it matters: This partnership highlights KAUST's commitment to environmental research and historical exploration, contributing to a deeper understanding of Saudi Arabia's natural and cultural heritage.
Professor Mike Scott will present a seminar at the Technology Innovation Institute's Cryptography Research Centre in the UAE. The seminar will focus on the challenges of keeping secrets safe from attackers in the context of cryptography. It will review proposed solutions, discuss use cases, and present a promising new approach. Why it matters: This seminar indicates TII's ongoing research and development efforts in advanced cryptography, a crucial area for secure digital infrastructure in the UAE and beyond.
Climber, author, and wingsuit pilot Steph Davis spoke to the KAUST community on January 15 as part of the 2017 Winter Enrichment Program. The event was captured in photos by Lilit Hovhannisyan. The program was held at King Abdullah University of Science and Technology. Why it matters: Such enrichment programs can broaden the horizons of the KAUST community.
KAUST Professor Carlos Duarte has been appointed to the Scientific Committee of Extreme E, an electric SUV racing series. Duarte's expertise in marine ecosystems and Red Sea ecology will advise Extreme E, especially concerning its Saudi Arabian Desert X Prix. Extreme E aims to raise awareness of climate change impacts in endangered environments and promote electric vehicle adoption. Why it matters: This appointment brings KAUST's ecological expertise to a global platform focused on sustainability, aligning regional research with international environmental initiatives.
KAUST Professor Alexandre Rosado studies extremophiles in extreme environments, including Saudi deserts, volcanoes, hot springs, and mangroves. His team researches the diversity and biotechnological potential of microorganisms in these harsh Saudi ecosystems. The logistical challenges of collecting samples in remote and extreme conditions are significant. Why it matters: This research can reveal new species and processes with biotechnological applications, particularly in bioremediation and understanding life's limits.