KAUST ·
Cindy Catherine Orozco Bohorquez, who completed her M.S. degree at KAUST in 2014, is now a second-year Ph.D. student at Stanford University. She is an alumna of King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST). Why it matters: This highlights KAUST's role in nurturing talent that goes on to pursue advanced studies at top global universities.
KAUST ·
KAUST alumnus Angel Garcia Esparza (M.S. '11, Ph.D. '16) is now a postdoctoral research fellow at Stanford University, where he was recently awarded beam time at SLAC's Linac Coherent Light Source. His experiment will study the ultra-fast processes occurring at the early stage of the water-splitting reaction for the production of solar hydrogen fuel, building on his interests in sustainable energy. Garcia Esparza credits the KAUST Discovery Scholarship as a turning point and fondly recalls the passionate seminars at KAUST. Why it matters: The success of a KAUST alumnus at a top global institution highlights the university's role in fostering research talent and contributing to advancements in sustainable energy solutions.
MBZUAI ·
Stanford Professor Yoav Shoham, a leading AI expert, will speak at the MBZUAI Executive Program. Shoham will present on lingual cognition and intelligence as part of a virtual class session. He has founded several AI companies, including AI21 Labs, and chairs the AI Index initiative. Why it matters: The participation of globally recognized AI experts like Shoham enhances the prestige and educational value of AI programs in the UAE, attracting talent and fostering innovation.
KAUST ·
Stanford's Robotics Laboratory, in collaboration with KAUST professors Khaled Nabil Salama and Christian Voolstra and MEKA Robotics, developed OceanOne, a bimanual underwater humanoid robot avatar with haptic feedback. OceanOne allows human pilots to explore ocean depths with high fidelity by relaying instantaneous images. The robot has two fully articulated arms and a tail section with batteries, computers, and thrusters. Why it matters: This collaboration between KAUST and Stanford highlights the increasing role of robotics and AI in deep-sea exploration, with potential applications in underwater research and resource discovery in the Red Sea and beyond.
KAUST ·
KAUST held its fifth commencement ceremony on December 12, 2014, celebrating 38 Ph.D. and 121 master's degree graduates. President Chameau and Board of Trustees Chairman Ali Ibrahim Al-Naimi honored the students, with Shamael Al-Shuhail as the Commencement Speaker. Stanford University President Dr. John L. Hennessy, the Distinguished Speaker, highlighted KAUST's rapid progress and advised graduates to pursue their passions and give back. Why it matters: While historical, this event underscores KAUST's ongoing commitment to developing STEM talent in Saudi Arabia, contributing to the region's growing focus on technology and innovation.
KAUST ·
KAUST's 2014 Commencement Ceremony will take place on December 12th between Al-Khawarizmi and the University Library. The student speaker will be Shamael A. Al-Shuhail, and the guest speaker is Stanford University President, Dr. John Hennessy. The KAUST community is invited to attend, with families of graduates having a reserved section. Why it matters: This event highlights KAUST's role in fostering international academic connections and celebrating the achievements of its graduates.
KAUST ·
KAUST recently concluded a two-week interactive course called "Entrepreneurship for All," developed by Stanford University faculty. The course teaches leadership, entrepreneurship, and innovation through design thinking, and is the first of its kind in a Saudi Arabian higher education institution. Students learn to apply design thinking to generate prototypes and market-ready products, as well as negotiation and networking skills. Why it matters: The course supports Saudi Vision 2030's objectives to increase entrepreneurship and create new companies in high-value sectors, contributing to the Kingdom's innovation ecosystem.
KAUST ·
KAUST held a Bay Area alumni dinner in San Francisco. This was the first of a series of planned events for KAUST alumni. The event aimed to connect KAUST graduates in the Bay Area. Why it matters: Building alumni networks can strengthen KAUST's reputation and facilitate collaborations with international tech hubs.