MBZUAI has launched master’s and Ph.D. programs in computational biology, expanding its research into life sciences. This includes projects like AIDO (AI-Driven Digital Organism) and analysis of the Emirati Genome Program. The programs are part of MBZUAI’s School of Digital Public Health and aim to integrate computational biology with precision medicine. Why it matters: This initiative supports the UAE's vision for a knowledge-based economy and its ambition to become a global center for scientific and technological progress in biotechnology and healthcare.
KAUST Discovery Professor Jesper Tegnér collaborated with UK researchers to develop algorithms explaining decision-making in insects and rats. Assoc. Prof. Robert Hoehndorf's lab introduced a tool for identifying genetic variants linked to rare diseases based on patient symptoms. KAUST scientists also studied monkeypox infection of human skin using stem cells and marine microbiome adaptation to thermal changes. Why it matters: These diverse research projects highlight KAUST's contributions to computational biology, virology, and marine science, advancing knowledge with implications for healthcare and environmental challenges.
KAUST alumnus Yu Li was named in Forbes' 30 Under 30 Asia List for his work developing algorithms to solve problems in biology and healthcare. Li, now an assistant professor at CUHK, was recognized for his computational tools to identify antibiotic-resistant genes. His research focuses on computational biology, human health, biomolecular structure prediction, and AI-driven drug discovery. Why it matters: This recognition highlights the impact of KAUST's programs in fostering AI talent in the region, particularly in the growing field of bioinformatics and healthcare.
KAUST Professor Takashi Gojobori has been elected as a Fellow of the International Society for Computational Biology (ISCB). ISCB is a scholarly society for computational biology and bioinformatics. Gojobori's research interests include comparative genomics and gene expression of neural cells, as well as the marine metagenomics of microorganisms. Why it matters: The recognition highlights KAUST's contributions to computational biology and bioinformatics and strengthens its position as a research hub in the region.
KAUST researchers organized a week-long workshop on bioinformatics, covering genomics and transcriptomics data analysis. The workshop targeted students, postdocs, and senior researchers, providing hands-on training in coding and analysis using tools like R, Python, and shell scripts. Attendees with little prior computational biology experience were introduced to fundamental concepts and tools for handling large sequencing datasets. Why it matters: The workshop addresses the increasing need for bioinformatics expertise at KAUST and in the region, crucial for advancing research in fields like evolution and complex diseases.
KAUST has inaugurated the Computational Bioscience Research Center. The inauguration included a two-day symposium. Why it matters: This new center will likely boost computational biology research and applications in the region.
MBZUAI celebrated its fifth anniversary with a ceremony attended by prominent figures, marking its establishment in 2020. The university is ranked 10th globally in AI, computer vision, machine learning, NLP, robotics and computational biology according to CSRankings. MBZUAI was also recognized among the top 50 organizations advancing AI at NeurIPS 2025, with a diverse academic community. Why it matters: MBZUAI's growth reinforces the UAE's position as a global AI leader, contributing significantly to the nation's knowledge-driven economy and AI research ecosystem.
MBZUAI's Assistant Professor of Computational Biology, Eduardo Beltrame, is researching single-cell RNA sequencing to advance personalized medicine. He is also designing MBZUAI’s new master’s and Ph.D. programs in computational biology, set to launch in 2026, under the guidance of Professor Eran Segal. MBZUAI's research agenda includes foundational initiatives like AIDO and the Human Phenotype Project, leveraging vast datasets such as the Emirati Genome Project. Why it matters: This highlights MBZUAI's commitment to cutting-edge research and education in computational biology, positioning it as a potential rival to top global institutions in the field.