KAUST research engineer Samy Ould-Chikh is collaborating with the Néel Institute-CNRS at the European Synchrotron Radiation Facility (ESRF) in France. They are using the ESRF's high-energy synchrotron light source to study the inner structure of matter at the atomic and molecular levels. Ould-Chikh's research focuses on catalysis and functional materials, with an emphasis on renewable energy and photocatalysis. Why it matters: This collaboration highlights KAUST's engagement with leading international research institutions to advance materials science and energy research.
KAUST alumnus Muhammed Sameed, who completed his master's degree in material science and engineering in 2012, works at CERN on the ALPHA experiment, which uses lasers to measure the properties of anti-hydrogen. Researchers at CERN are investigating the fundamental structure of the universe, including the absence of anti-matter. Current research indicates that every process that creates matter also creates anti-matter in the same amount, which does not align with the observable universe. Why it matters: This highlights KAUST's role in training scientists who contribute to cutting-edge research in fundamental physics, even at international facilities like CERN.
Researchers at KAUST have developed a nanocomposite material that converts X-rays into light with nearly 100% efficiency. The material combines a metal-organic framework (MOF) containing zirconium with an organic TADF chromophore. This design achieves high resolution and sensitivity in X-ray imaging, potentially reducing medical imaging doses by a factor of 22. Why it matters: This innovation could lead to more efficient and safer medical imaging and security screening technologies in the region and beyond.
KAUST alumnus Dr. Muhammed Sameed works at CERN on the ALPHA project, studying antimatter. The project aims to understand why there is so little antimatter in the universe, given that physics equations predict equal amounts of matter and antimatter. Sameed's work involves creating, trapping, and studying antimatter particles in a controlled lab environment. Why it matters: This research advances our understanding of fundamental physics and the composition of the universe, with a KAUST alumnus playing a key role.
Muhammed Sameed, a 2012 KAUST alumnus, co-authored a paper published in Nature about antimatter. Sameed currently works at CERN in Switzerland. The research was featured on the KAUST website. Why it matters: The publication highlights KAUST's role in fostering scientific talent who contribute to high-impact research globally, even if the specific research is not focused on the GCC region.
KAUST researchers have determined the atomic 3D structure of a key protein involved in plant stress signaling using X-ray crystallography at the SOLEIL synchrotron in France. Postdoctoral fellow Umar Farook Shahul Hameed optimized a tiny crystal of the plant enzyme for over six months. The team used the EIGER 9M detector to capture the weak diffraction pattern from the crystal. Why it matters: Understanding the interactions between proteins that communicate plant stress could lead to engineering more stress-tolerant crops, enhancing food security.
KAUST researchers developed a crystallization process for organic molecules with potential applications in electronics, pharmaceuticals, and food. They produced "strained organic semiconductors," which can lead to high-performance, low-cost, flexible, and transparent electronic devices. The team combined X-ray beams with high-speed cameras to record the crystallization process, revealing that quick evaporation and nanoscale thinness play a role in producing ideal crystal lattices. Why it matters: This new method offers unprecedented control over crystal formation, potentially revolutionizing the production of plastic electronics and impacting other industries relying on specific crystal structures.
KAUST hosted the Solar Future 2015 Symposium, gathering experts from academia and industry to discuss advancements in solar energy conversion. The symposium, organized by the KAUST Solar and Photovoltaics Engineering Research Center (SPERC), featured keynote presentations, plenary talks, and poster sessions. Discussions covered emerging and mature technologies aimed at achieving high efficiency and low cost in solar energy. Why it matters: The event highlights KAUST's role in fostering innovation and collaboration in renewable energy, aligning with Saudi Arabia's broader sustainability goals.