KAUST hosted the "Human-Machine Networks and Intelligent Infrastructures" conference, co-organized by Prof. Jeff Shamma and Asst. Prof. Meriem Laleg. The conference explored the blend of engineered devices and human elements in large-scale systems like smart grids. Keynote speaker Dr. Pramod Khargonekar discussed cyber-physical-social systems and emerging trends. Why it matters: The conference highlights the growing importance of understanding the interplay between AI, infrastructure, and human behavior in the development of smart cities and intelligent systems in the region.
Munther Dahleh, director at the MIT Institute for Data, Systems, and Society (IDSS), discussed his group's research on network systems at the KAUST 2018 Winter Enrichment Program. The research focuses on the fragility of large networked systems, like highway systems, in response to disruptions that may lead to catastrophic failures. Dahleh's team studies transportation networks, electrical grids, and financial markets to understand system interconnection in causing systemic risk. Why it matters: Understanding networked systems is crucial for building resilient infrastructure and mitigating risks in critical sectors across the GCC region.
KAUST researchers are simulating cyberattacks on microgrids to assess their impact and develop detection/suppression methods. They used the Canadian urban distribution model with four inverter-based distributed generations (DGs) to capture system dynamics. The simulations considered attacks altering measurement data, modifying control signals, and causing sudden load changes, all of which had damaging effects. Why it matters: This research is crucial for ensuring the resilience of increasingly complex microgrids against cyber threats, especially as they become more integrated into critical infrastructure.
KAUST faculty member Marco Canini is researching networked systems, focusing on improving their design, implementation, and operation. His work centers on Software-Defined Advanced Networked and Distributed Systems (SANDS). Canini aims to address challenges related to reliability, performance, security, and energy efficiency in large-scale networked computer systems. Why it matters: This research contributes to the development of more dependable and efficient digital infrastructure in Saudi Arabia, aligning with KAUST's mission to advance science and technology.
MBZUAI researchers are working on digital twin technology that can replicate human beings in detail, with real-time data flow between the physical and virtual. This project aims to extend digital twins from objects to organic entities like humans, plants and animals. The technology mines data from cameras, sensors, wearables, and other sources to predict health issues before they arise. Why it matters: This research has the potential to transform healthcare by enabling the prediction and prevention of health issues.
Siemens CTO Rainer Speh spoke at KAUST about smart cities, noting that urban populations are growing, especially in cities like Riyadh and Jeddah. Cities consume two-thirds of the world's energy and generate 70% of CO2 emissions. Siemens is working on a driverless subway system in Riyadh as part of its smart city initiatives. Why it matters: Smart city initiatives are crucial for managing resources and reducing emissions in rapidly growing urban centers in Saudi Arabia.
NYU Abu Dhabi hosted a talk by Prof. Debdeep Mukhopadhyay on the intersection of machine learning and hardware security. The talk covered using ML/DL for side-channel attacks, leakage assessment in crypto-devices, and threats to hardware security primitives. Prof. Mukhopadhyay is a visiting professor at NYU Abu Dhabi and Institute Chair Professor at IIT Kharagpur. Why it matters: The talk highlights the growing importance of hardware security in modern systems and the role of machine learning in both attacking and defending hardware vulnerabilities.
Communications Physics journal has a focus collection on space quantum communications. The collection covers supporting technologies, new quantum protocols, inter-satellite QKD, constellations of satellites, and quantum inspired technologies and protocols for space based communication. Contributions are welcome from October 20, 2020 to April 30, 2021, and accepted papers are published on a rolling basis. Why it matters: Space-based quantum communication is a critical area for developing secure, global quantum networks, and this collection could highlight relevant research for the GCC region as it invests in advanced technologies.