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 Associate Professor Derya Baran was named one of Forbes’ 20 Women Behind Middle Eastern Tech Brands for her work developing iyris SecondSky, a greenhouse roofing product. SecondSky uses nanoparticle additives to block heat while allowing light to pass through, reducing energy consumption by up to 40% and water use by 30%. The technology is already used in farms across 12 countries and is being considered for residential and commercial construction in Saudi Arabia. Why it matters: This recognition highlights the growing role of women in Middle Eastern tech and the potential for KAUST-developed technologies to address sustainability challenges in the region.
The KAUST Smart Health Initiative (KSHI) held its annual conference on November 1-2, focusing on health and wellness in KSA. The conference featured speakers from clinical, academic, government, NGO, and health industry institutions. Saudi's first female astronaut, Ms. Rayyanah Barnawi, participated in a panel discussing space medicine and its impact. Why it matters: The event highlights KAUST's commitment to precision medicine and showcases the potential of space research to benefit healthcare on Earth.
KAUST Professor Derya Baran and her team at startup iyris have developed transparent solar panels that can turn windows into a source of renewable energy. The technology allows buildings to generate their own electricity, aligning with Saudi Vision 2030's goals for sustainable energy. iyris' first customer is the Red Sea Farm, another KAUST-based business, which aims to use the windows to improve plant growth and crop yield. Why it matters: This innovation could significantly reduce reliance on fossil fuels and promote sustainable urban development in the region, where cooling demands drive high electricity consumption.
KAUST Assistant Professor of Material Science and Engineering, Derya Baran, was named as one of MIT Technology Review's 'Innovators Under 35 in the MENA region' in 2018. Baran and her team founded iyris, a startup developing transparent photovoltaic technology to turn windows into solar panels. The technology aims to enable energy-efficient buildings by generating electricity and blocking heat. Why it matters: This recognition highlights KAUST's role in fostering innovation in sustainable energy and showcases the potential of advanced materials research for addressing regional environmental challenges.
KAUST Associate Professor Derya Baran has been appointed a Fellow of the Royal Society of Chemistry (RSC). Baran leads the Organic Materials for Energy Applications (OMEGA) research group at KAUST, focusing on soft materials for electronic devices. Her research aims to develop printed, stretchable electronics for applications like solar cells and sensors. Why it matters: This fellowship provides a platform for Professor Baran to elevate her research and connect with global scientific leaders, supporting KAUST's and Saudi Arabia's broader goals in renewable energy and sustainable technologies.
KAUST alumnae Dr. Fatimah Abdulhakim, Dr. Nadine Hosny El Said, and Dr. Rana Hussein Ali were honored in the 2025 L’Oréal-UNESCO For Women in Science Awards. Abdulhakim was recognized for her research on plant immune response, while El Said was honored for her work on epigenetic science and RNA-based therapies. Ali was named a 2025 German Laureate in the global L’Oréal-UNESCO For Women in Science Awards for her work at Goethe University Frankfurt. Why it matters: The recognition highlights KAUST's role in fostering female scientific talent and advancing research in areas crucial for regional food security and global healthcare.