Dr. Tony Chan has assumed the role of President of KAUST on September 1st. He previously led the Hong Kong University of Science and Technology (HKUST) for a decade. Prior to that, he had a distinguished career in computational mathematics and held leadership positions at the U.S. National Science Foundation and the University of California, Los Angeles. Why it matters: Chan's appointment signals KAUST's continued focus on advancing its global research agenda and contributing to Saudi Arabia's Vision 2030.
KAUST President Tony F. Chan has been awarded the 2020 SIAM Prize for Distinguished Service to the Profession. The award recognizes Chan's contributions to applied and computational mathematics, imaging science, and scientific computing. Chan has served on advisory boards for KAIST, SUSTech, and the University of Vienna, and is a member of the NEOM Higher Council. Why it matters: The recognition highlights KAUST's leadership and influence in advancing mathematical sciences and its applications on a global stage.
KAUST President Tony Chan received an honorary degree from the University of Waterloo in recognition of his contributions to society. Chan has strong ties to the University through the HKUST-UW research program which funded collaborative research projects. Chan is a globally recognized mathematician and leader in computational models for image processing. Why it matters: Recognition of KAUST's leadership on the global stage helps promote its research and educational initiatives in the region.
KAUST has appointed Dr. Tony Chan, former president of HKUST and KAUST board member, as its new president, effective September 1, 2018. Chan's background is in computational mathematics with interests including image processing, computer vision, physical circuit design and computational brain mapping. He has been a close partner of KAUST since 2007 and a member of the KAUST Board of Trustees since 2011. Why it matters: Chan's leadership is expected to contribute to KAUST's role in achieving Saudi Arabia's Vision 2030 objectives and addressing global challenges.
KAUST President Tony Chan will participate in a panel discussion titled 'Between East and West' on October 15. The panel will include Eng Chye Tan, President of the National University of Singapore, and Da Hsuan Feng, a theoretical physicist. The discussion will focus on challenges and opportunities in leading institutions in the 21st century, with a focus on the global higher education landscape. Why it matters: The event provides insights into KAUST's role in bridging Eastern and Western academic perspectives and its efforts to navigate the evolving global education landscape.
KAUST President Tony Chan discussed the university's alignment with Saudi Vision 2030 in an interview with Asharq Al-Awsat. He highlighted KAUST's contributions to Saudi Arabia's economic and technological development and its collaborations with projects like Neom City and Aramco. Chan emphasized KAUST's focus on high-quality research in areas like energy, food, water, and the environment. Why it matters: KAUST's strategic alignment with Vision 2030 positions it as a key enabler of Saudi Arabia's diversification and innovation goals.
KAUST President Tony Chan addressed the G20 National Science Academies (S20) virtually, congratulating the leadership for progress made since the April information session. He highlighted the upcoming S20 summit at KAUST, where the global science community will present a template for a better future to G20 leaders. Chan emphasized holistic thinking and the need to consider unintended consequences in technological developments like AI and precision medicine. Why it matters: This underscores KAUST's role as a convener for international science collaboration and its focus on AI ethics and governance within the G20 framework.
KAUST and the Future Investment Initiative (FII) Institute signed an MoU on January 27 to collaborate on research and facilitate access to scientific knowledge. The agreement was signed by KAUST President Tony Chan and FII Institute CEO Richard Attias at the fourth edition of the FII in Riyadh. The partnership aims to contribute to international development and welfare through actionable technological progress. Why it matters: This MoU signifies KAUST's commitment to translating research into tangible solutions for global challenges, aligning with Saudi Arabia's broader vision for innovation and development.