KAUST's Visual Computing Center had two papers recognized at IEEE VIS 2023. One paper, from Prof. Markus Hadwiger's group, introduced a new method for detecting and visualizing vortex structures in 2D fluid flows, which was recognized as one of the best papers. The second paper, from Prof. Ivan Viola's team, presented Dr. KID, a visualization framework for physicalizing biological structures into 3D-printed models, receiving an honorable mention. Why it matters: These awards highlight KAUST's contributions to cutting-edge visualization techniques with potential applications in diverse scientific and engineering fields.
KAUST alumnus Ronell Sicat (M.S. '10, Ph.D. '15) is developing immersive data visualization tools using augmented and virtual reality (AR/VR). After a postdoc at Harvard, Sicat returned to KAUST as a research scientist in the Visual Computing Center. Sicat developed a tool called DXR to help researchers prototype immersive visualizations. Why it matters: This highlights KAUST's role in fostering talent and innovation in AR/VR, a growing area with applications across various sectors in Saudi Arabia.
KAUST master’s degree student Samuel Horváth won a best poster award at the Data Science Summer School (DS3) in Paris for his poster entitled "Nonconvex Variance Reduced Optimization with Arbitrary Sampling". The poster is based on a paper of the same name currently under review and is joint work between Horváth and his supervisor Professor Peter Richtárik from the KAUST Visual Computing Center. Horváth's research interests are at the interface of statistical learning and big data optimization, with a focus on randomized methods for non-convex problems. Why it matters: This award recognizes the quality of KAUST's research and its students' contributions to the field of data science and optimization.
KAUST's Visual Computing Center (VCC) hosted an Open House event on March 28, showcasing its interdisciplinary research in visual computing. Demonstrations included a virtual reality driving simulator by FalconViz, intended for driver education in Saudi Arabia. Researchers also presented a drone trained to autonomously navigate race courses and a neural network for autonomous driving using image-based technology without GPS. Why it matters: The VCC's work highlights KAUST's role in advancing visual computing applications relevant to Saudi Arabia, from driver training to autonomous systems.
Peter Richtárik, an associate professor of computer science and mathematics, joined KAUST in February 2017. He is affiliated with the Visual Computing Center and the Extreme Computing Research Center at KAUST. Richtárik's research combines optimization and machine learning, and he values the support KAUST provides to his students, including funding for travel and conference attendance. Why it matters: This highlights KAUST's commitment to attracting and supporting leading researchers in AI and related fields, fostering innovation and talent development in the region.
KAUST's Visual Computing Center (VCC) is researching computer vision, image processing, and machine learning, with applications in self-driving cars, surveillance, and security. Professor Bernard Ghanem is working on teaching machines to understand visual data semantically, similar to how humans perceive the world. Self-driving cars use visual sensors to interpret traffic signals and detect obstacles, while computer vision also assists governments and corporations with security applications like facial recognition and detecting unattended luggage. Why it matters: Advancements in computer vision at KAUST can contribute to innovations in autonomous vehicles and enhance security measures in the region.
Jorge Amador, a PhD student at KAUST's Visual Computing Center, presented a talk on physically-based simulation for generative AI models. The talk covered the use of synthetic data generation and physical priors to address the need for high-quality datasets. Applications discussed include photo editing, navigation, digital humans, and cosmological simulations. Why it matters: This research explores a promising technique to overcome data scarcity issues in AI, particularly relevant in resource-constrained environments or for sensitive applications.
KAUST welcomed 250 new master’s and Ph.D. students at its sixth annual Convocation on August 25. Speakers emphasized KAUST's international environment and the opportunities for students to grow both academically and personally. Wolfgang Heidrich, Director of KAUST’s Visual Computing Center, advised students to explore, find their passion, aim high, work hard, and manage their time. Why it matters: The annual convocation highlights KAUST's continued growth as a global research university and its focus on attracting international talent to contribute to science and technology in Saudi Arabia.