The Technology Innovation Institute (TII) in Abu Dhabi has launched a 2-micrometer high-power fiber laser for medical and industrial applications. Developed by TII's Directed Energy Research Center, the Thulium-based laser is efficient, compact, and scalable, enabling precise interaction with water-rich materials. TII has partnered with LIMA Photonics, a German MedTech startup, to integrate the laser into clinical solutions, including urinary stone treatment and prostate surgery. Why it matters: This laser technology and partnership showcase the UAE's commitment to translating advanced research into healthcare solutions, positioning Abu Dhabi as a hub for medical technology innovation.
Technology Innovation Institute (TII) announced that its Directed Energy Research Center (DERC) has developed the first high-power (kW-level) Ytterbium-doped fiber laser in the MENA region, designed, assembled, and tested in the UAE. The project, led by Dr. Giuseppe Scurria, involved building an optical laboratory, developing local expertise in optical fiber processing, and establishing relationships with laser and photonics companies. High-power fiber lasers have applications in material processing, defense, telecommunications, and medicine. Why it matters: This achievement signifies a critical step for the UAE towards sovereignty in high-power laser technologies and establishes the UAE as a key player in the fiber laser field, opening doors for further collaborations.
Technology Innovation Institute's (TII) Directed Energy Research Center (DERC) in Abu Dhabi has launched the GCC region's first Laser-Matter Interaction (LMI) Laboratory. The LMI Lab, part of DERC's Laser, Photonics, and Optoelectronics Division, will investigate laser interactions with matter. This lab will enable local research and development in laser materials processing, plasma physics, and nanotechnology, reducing reliance on foreign outsourcing. Why it matters: This regional first enhances the UAE's position in advanced technology research and expands the application of lasers across diverse industries in the GCC.
A KAUST-led team developed a nano-optical chip capable of generating and controlling nanoscale rogue waves. The chip, detailed in Nature Physics, uses a planar photonic crystal fabricated at the University of St. Andrews and tested at FOM Institute AMOLF. It enables unprecedented control over these rare, high-energy events, opening possibilities for energy research and environmental safety. Why it matters: This innovation provides a new platform for studying extreme events and potentially harnessing their energy, advancing both fundamental science and practical applications in areas like renewable energy and disaster prevention.
Professor Qiaoqiang Gan, a KAUST professor of material science and engineering, has been elected as a Fellow of SPIE, the international society for optics and photonics. Gan, who joined KAUST in 2021, is an expert in light-matter interaction for nanosensing and green photonics and leads the Sustainable Photonics Energy Research (SuPER) Lab. His work focuses on developing advanced manufacturing methods to monitor biomedical conditions, conserve energy, and ensure environmental sustainability. Why it matters: This recognition highlights KAUST's growing prominence in photonics research and its commitment to addressing global challenges in energy, health, and sustainability through advanced materials and optical technologies.
KAUST Professor Boon S. Ooi has been named an IEEE Fellow for his contributions to broadband light emitters and visible light communications. Ooi's work in semiconductor photonics has led to the establishment of successful startups. He is among the first to propose energy-efficient lighting and ultra-high-speed visible light communication using semiconductor lasers. Why it matters: Recognition of KAUST faculty demonstrates the institution's growing prominence in advanced technology research and its impact on global innovation.
KAUST Professor of Electrical Engineering Boon S. Ooi has been elected as a Fellow of the U.S. National Academy of Inventors (NAI). This honor recognizes Ooi's contributions to semiconductor photonics, optical sensors, and particularly his work on fiber sensors for oil & gas and agriculture. Ooi's inventions are relevant to communications, health, energy and agriculture. Why it matters: This recognition highlights KAUST's and the region's increasing contributions to impactful research and innovation in areas like optical sensing and semiconductor photonics.
KAUST Associate Professor Andrea Fratalocchi was elected a Fellow of the Optical Society (OSA) in September for his innovations in complex optical systems. His research at KAUST focuses on clean energy harvesting, bio-imaging, and advanced optical materials. Fratalocchi heads the Primalight Lab research group and studies applied complexity, aiming to transform complex physical systems into sustainable technologies. Why it matters: This recognition highlights KAUST's growing prominence in optics and photonics research and its contributions to developing sustainable technologies.