KAUST and Janssen Pharmaceutical (Johnson & Johnson) are collaborating to research and innovate in neglected tropical diseases, focusing on dengue fever. They signed an MoU to establish a dengue fever research program and an infectious disease R&D center at KAUST's National BioPark. The partnership marks Johnson & Johnson's first university collaboration in Saudi Arabia. Why it matters: This collaboration signifies a major step in localizing disease research within Saudi Arabia and leveraging KAUST's AI, genomics, and data simulation expertise to address global health challenges.
KAUST M.S./Ph.D. student Mohammad Alabdullah is researching crude oil conversion and catalyst formulation in the KAUST Catalysis Center under Professor Jorge Gascon. Alabdullah, a KFUPM graduate who previously worked at Saudi Aramco's R&D center, aims to develop innovative technology for industrial applications. He appreciates KAUST's state-of-the-art facilities and focus on real-world applications and plans to return to Saudi Aramco after his studies. Why it matters: This highlights KAUST's role in developing Saudi talent for the petrochemical industry and fostering collaboration between academia and industry.
Dow Chemical Company signed an agreement with KAUST to expand its facilities at the KAUST Research & Technology Park by constructing a new 13,500 sqm Dow Middle East Research and Development (R&D) Center. Construction, led by KAUST and designed to meet LEED silver certification, was set to begin by the end of 2015 and accommodate up to 75 Dow R&D employees. The facility will house advanced labs for water treatment research and expand capabilities in oil and gas, construction, and coatings. Why it matters: This expansion underscores the commitment to regional innovation and developing science-based solutions for challenges related to water, energy, and infrastructure in the Middle East.