KAUST and Oxford Nanopore Technologies have signed an MoU to collaborate on multi-omics research, building on previous work such as the NanoRanger technique developed by KAUST's Mo Li. KAUST will gain early access to Oxford Nanopore’s sequencing technology, while Oxford Nanopore will access KAUST's Core Labs. Why it matters: This partnership enhances KAUST's research capabilities in areas like rare diseases and desert agriculture, and provides Oxford Nanopore with a launchpad to engage with Saudi Arabia's research community.
Technology Innovation Institute (TII) will host the inaugural Open Source AI Summit Abu Dhabi on November 26-27, convening AI scientists and industry experts from Meta, Google DeepMind, Oxford, Tsinghua, and local institutions to discuss open-source AI. Key topics include AI accessibility, safety, ethics, governance, compute power, and international alliances. TII was among the first to open source a LLM with Falcon 40B in May 2023. Why it matters: The summit highlights the UAE's growing role in shaping the global conversation around open and responsible AI development.
Dr. Abdulla AlHajri, a Senior Researcher at the Quantum Research Center (QRC), co-authored a paper published in Nature Communications titled “Quantum Physics in Connected Worlds.” The research, conducted with scientists from the University of Oxford, investigated the impact of geometry and structure on fundamental system properties. It identified structures with unusual geometry capable of altering material magnetic properties uniquely. Why it matters: This publication highlights the growing quantum research capabilities in the UAE and QRC's contributions to cutting-edge physics.
A recent survey by Oxford Economics and Oracle indicates that Saudi Arabian workers are highly confident in using AI to enhance their skills and careers. 86% of Saudi respondents believe AI will have a positive impact on their jobs, and 84% are ready to learn new skills to work with AI. This reflects a strong embrace of AI in the Saudi workforce and a willingness to adapt to evolving job roles. Why it matters: This positive sentiment suggests Saudi Arabia is well-positioned to integrate AI into its economy and workforce as part of its Vision 2030 goals.
KAUST master’s student Osama Dabbousi has been awarded the Rhodes Scholarship to study at the University of Oxford in 2026. Dabbousi's research involves high-performance computing, specifically GPU-accelerated, large-scale acoustic simulation, and he is an alumnus of the KAUST Gifted Student Program (KGSP). He credits KAUST's computational science training, GPU resources, and mentorship from Professor Matteo Parsani for his success. Why it matters: Dabbousi's selection highlights KAUST's role in developing Saudi talent and contributing to the Kingdom's research ambitions in fields like high-performance computing.
KAUST Academy concluded its second cohort, attended by H.R.H Prince Saud bin Mishaal, showcasing 67 projects in AI, cybersecurity, and bioinformatics. The program included virtual courses for 7,000 students, in-person training for 2,800, and scholarships for 200 at institutions like Oxford, Toronto, and KAUST. Professor Sultan Albarakati highlighted KAUST's commitment to world-class education through global partnerships. Why it matters: This initiative addresses Saudi Vision 2030's goal of building a skilled national workforce in critical technology sectors.
Dr. Alison Noble from the University of Oxford presented her work on smart medical ultrasound technology at the KAUST Research Open Week, focusing on automated image analysis and deep learning. Her research aims to improve data collection, patient-doctor relations, and accessibility of healthcare. Portable ultrasound technology can increase accessibility for patients in remote areas. Why it matters: AI-enhanced ultrasound has the potential to significantly improve healthcare delivery and diagnostics in Saudi Arabia and the broader region, especially in underserved communities.
Two of the three Saudi Arabian undergraduates selected as 2022 Rhodes Scholars are current or former participants in KAUST programs. Ahmed, a KGSP student, aims to research Red Sea super corals, while Mohammed Alghadeer, a KAUST summer intern, will study condensed matter physics at Oxford. The Rhodes Scholarship provides full funding for graduate studies at the University of Oxford. Why it matters: This highlights KAUST's role in cultivating Saudi talent in STEM fields and fostering future leaders committed to global challenges.