Sergey Kozlov, a research scientist at KAUST's Catalysis Center (KCC), is leaving to take up a tenure-track position as an assistant professor at the National University of Singapore (NUS). During his time at KAUST, Kozlov focused on simulating the chemical properties of catalysts using computational chemistry methods and the Shaheen II supercomputer. His research focused on applications in energy and CO2 utilization technologies. Why it matters: Kozlov's move highlights KAUST's role in developing research talent and contributing to advancements in computational chemistry and catalysis within the region.
Alexander Gasnikov from the Moscow Institute of Physics and Technology presented a talk on open problems in convex optimization. The talk covered stochastic averaging vs stochastic average approximation, saddle-point problems and accelerated methods, homogeneous federated learning, and decentralized optimization. Gasnikov's research focuses on optimization algorithms and he has published in NeurIPS, ICML, EJOR, OMS, and JOTA. Why it matters: While the talk itself isn't directly related to GCC AI, understanding convex optimization is crucial for advancing machine learning algorithms used in the region.
KAUST Associate Professor Jürgen Kosel has been named a distinguished lecturer of the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE) Sensors Council for 2020-2022. Kosel's research focuses on sensors and transducers with applications in animal monitoring, precision farming, Formula One racing, and biomedical instruments. His group is also developing magnetic devices for high-density data storage and cancer treatment. Why it matters: This recognition highlights KAUST's contributions to sensor technology and its potential impact on diverse fields, including healthcare in developing regions.
KAUST faculty member Enrico Traversa is researching nanostructured materials for sustainable development in energy, environment, healthcare, and solid oxide fuel cells (SOFCs). His work focuses on developing next-generation SOFCs based on chemically stable proton-conducting electrolytes to reduce operating temperatures. Traversa also develops scaffold biomaterials for tissue regeneration, aiming to create heart tissue using patient-derived stem cells. Why it matters: This research contributes to KAUST's focus on energy, water, environment and food, with potential for advancements in clean energy and regenerative medicine.
KAUST hosted a Global IT Summit. The summit featured speakers like Khaled Biyari, group CEO at the Saudi Telecom Company. Interviews from the summit are available on KAUST's official YouTube channel. Why it matters: The summit likely served as a forum for discussing IT trends and developments relevant to Saudi Arabia's Vision 2030.
Xiaohang Li has joined the Computer, Electrical and Mathematical Science and Engineering Division at KAUST as an assistant professor of electrical engineering. He will focus on research and teaching within the electrical engineering domain. Why it matters: The appointment strengthens KAUST's faculty expertise in electrical engineering and related areas.
KAUST and the Ministry of Innovational Development of Uzbekistan signed a Memorandum of Cooperation (MoC) to collaborate on science, technology, and innovation. The agreement aims to leverage scientific strengths between the two entities through information sharing, personnel exchange, project support, and internship assistance. A Joint Working Group will coordinate the activities. Why it matters: This partnership expands KAUST's reach into Central Asia, potentially fostering joint research and development in areas like AI and sustainability.
KAUST Ph.D. student Sofya Mudrova won the best poster award at the 4th International Congress on Invertebrate Morphology (ICIM4) in Moscow. The poster was in the biology domain. The award recognizes research presented at the conference. Why it matters: Showcases KAUST's strength in attracting and developing talent in interdisciplinary research areas.