MBZUAI awarded its first Ph.D. to Numan Saeed for his dissertation, "Deep Learning for Cancer Diagnosis and Prognosis." Saeed's research explores using deep learning models to diagnose tumors and predict survival rates for head and neck cancers by interpreting PET and CT scan imagery and doctor's notes. The AI model considers variables like age, gender, and tumor size to improve diagnosis, especially in regions with limited oncological services. Why it matters: This milestone highlights MBZUAI's growing role in AI research and its potential to contribute to advancements in AI-driven healthcare solutions, particularly for cancer diagnosis and treatment.
Abhay Dokania, a Ph.D. student at KAUST, is researching the conversion of CO2 to useful chemicals under the supervision of Professor Jorge Gascon at the KAUST Catalysis Center. His work focuses on developing multi-functional heterogeneous catalysts. Dokania's background includes degrees from Birla Institute and TU Delft, as well as research experience in the Netherlands. Why it matters: This research contributes to sustainable chemical engineering and CO2 reduction, aligning with Saudi Arabia's broader environmental goals.
KAUST Ph.D. student Lukas Larisch won the Parameterized Algorithms and Computational Experiments (PACE) 2017 Challenge in the Optimal Tree Decomposition Challenge, solving more instances than competitors. He received the award at the International Symposium on Parameterized and Exact Computation (IPEC 2017) in Vienna, Austria. Larisch is pursuing his Ph.D. at KAUST and working in the University's Extreme Computing Research Center, focusing on acoustics and graph structure theory. Why it matters: This recognition highlights KAUST's contribution to advanced computer science research and its ability to attract and foster talented researchers in niche areas like parameterized complexity.
Mae AlMansoori, Principal Researcher at DERC, received the highest marks and an "Excellent" commendation for her PhD thesis and presentation from Helmut Schmidt University. Her thesis focused on applying modern engineering to optimize directed energy technologies, resulting in over 25 publications and a patent filing for RF jammer localization. AlMansoori is the first Emirati to significantly contribute to directed energy systems and detection technologies. Why it matters: This achievement highlights the UAE's growing expertise in advanced engineering fields and the role of Emirati researchers in developing cutting-edge technologies.
Nada Aljassim is the first KAUST Gifted Student Program (KGSP) participant to earn a Ph.D. at KAUST, after completing undergraduate studies at University College London. The KGSP, established before KAUST's opening, supports top Saudi students in STEM fields for undergraduate studies abroad followed by graduate studies at KAUST. Aljassim aims to contribute to Saudi Arabia's knowledge economy and give back to her country after its investment in her education. Why it matters: The KGSP program is helping to build a strong pipeline of Saudi talent in STEM fields, contributing to the Kingdom's research and development capabilities.
Three KAUST Ph.D. students, Dalal Alezi, Samah Mohamed, and Yevhen Fatieiev, have been selected to attend the 67th Lindau Nobel Laureate Meeting in Lindau, Germany. The meeting will bring together young scientists and Nobel laureates in chemistry for a week of activities. Alezi's research focuses on metal-organic materials, Mohamed develops chemical kinetic models for combustion, and Fatieiev works on magnetic nanoparticles. Why it matters: This highlights KAUST's commitment to fostering scientific talent and providing opportunities for its students to engage with leading researchers in their fields, enhancing the university's global reputation.
KAUST Ph.D. student Nasir Alfaraj represented KAUST and Saudi Arabia at the 2018 Chicago Forum on Global Cities. The forum, hosted by the Chicago Council on Global Affairs and The Financial Times, focused on solving global challenges. Alfaraj attended panels on water, food, and energy security, relevant to his research on UV light-emitting devices for water sterilization. Why it matters: This participation highlights KAUST's role in international dialogues on sustainability and showcases Saudi contributions to addressing global challenges.