Professor Jean-Luc Bredas, Director of KAUST’s Solar Center (SPERC), has been elected to the European Academy of Sciences (EURASC). Bredas is recognized for his theoretical research into organic materials for semiconductor devices like LEDs, transistors, and solar cells. His KAUST group focuses on understanding the electronic and optical properties of these materials. Why it matters: This recognition highlights KAUST's growing prominence in advanced materials research and its contributions to global scientific advancements in electronics and photonics.
KAUST will host the "U.S. National Academy of Sciences – KAUST Frontiers of Sensor Science Symposium" in December, focusing on sensor technologies. The symposium, in collaboration with the U.S.-based National Academy of Sciences (NAS), will cover agriculture, biomedical applications, environment (smart cities), and materials science. Carlo Ratti, Director of MIT’s SENSEable City Lab, will deliver the keynote address. Why it matters: The event highlights KAUST's strategic focus on sensor technology and its role in fostering international collaboration in cutting-edge research areas relevant to regional development.
KAUST Professor David Keyes was elected as a Fellow of the American Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS) for his contributions to parallel computing and numerical analysis. He was formally recognized at the AAAS Annual Meeting in Washington, D.C. Keyes expressed feeling humbled and honored by the award, emphasizing the breadth of science and engineering that AAAS encompasses. Why it matters: This recognition highlights the caliber of research and researchers at KAUST, enhancing the university's reputation and fostering international collaborations in computational science.
KAUST Professor Peter Markowich has been elected a Foreign Member of Italy’s Accademia Nazionale dei Lincei, a scientific institution founded in 1603. Markowich is recognized for his contributions to applied mathematics and computational sciences, with applications spanning physics, AI, biology, and engineering. He has been a distinguished professor at KAUST since 2011 and has over 200 publications. Why it matters: This recognition highlights KAUST's role in fostering impactful research and elevating Saudi Arabia's position in the global scientific community.
Iain McCulloch, director of the KAUST Solar Center, has been elected as a Fellow of the Royal Society. McCulloch's research focuses on high-performance organic semiconductor materials for applications such as transparent solar cells and sensors. The Royal Society, founded in 1660, is the UK's national science academy and a fellowship of eminent scientists. Why it matters: This recognition highlights KAUST's contributions to advanced materials research and its role in fostering scientific talent in the region.
KAUST Assistant Professor Derya Baran has been selected as a member of the Global Young Academy (GYA), the first member to represent a Saudi Arabian institution. The GYA is an international society for young scientists under 40 focused on science, policy, research environment, and science education. During her five years in the GYA, Baran hopes to contribute to building a National Young Academy in Saudi Arabia and give KAUST and the Saudi educational system greater representation in the scientific world. Why it matters: This appointment enhances the visibility of Saudi research institutions on the global stage and promotes the development of young scientists in the region.
KAUST's Vice President for Research, Donal Bradley, has been named a Fellow of the National Academy of Inventors (NAI). Bradley is recognized as a pioneer of soluble semiconductors and co-inventor of conjugated polymer electroluminescence. He co-founded multiple companies including Cambridge Display Technology Ltd. Why it matters: This recognition highlights KAUST's continued contributions to impactful research and innovation in advanced materials and engineering.
Jean-Marie Basset, KAUST professor and director of the Catalysis Center, has been named a fellow of the U.S. National Academy of Inventors. Basset is a distinguished professor of chemical science at KAUST. Why it matters: This recognition highlights the quality of research and faculty at KAUST.