KAUST Professor Peter Markowich has been named a 2022 Fellow of the American Mathematical Society (AMS). He is recognized for contributions to partial differential equations, particularly the mathematical and numerical analysis of dispersive equations. Markowich applies differential mathematics to disciplines such as physics, AI, biology and engineering, including research on leaf venation patterns. Why it matters: This recognition highlights KAUST's strength in applied mathematics and its faculty's contributions to both theoretical and interdisciplinary research.
KAUST professor David Ketcheson uses mathematical modeling to understand COVID-19 transmission. He applies differential equations to explain the progression of SARS-CoV-2, utilizing the SIR model to predict the spread. Ketcheson's analysis suggests that the reproduction number for COVID-19 could be as high as 5, emphasizing the need for social distancing. Why it matters: This highlights the role of mathematical modeling and data analysis in understanding and predicting the spread of infectious diseases, particularly in the context of pandemic response.
KAUST Professor of Applied Mathematics and Computational Science, Dr. Peter Markowich, has been named a 2020 Fellow to the European Academy of Sciences. This recognizes his work in the mathematical and numerical analysis of partial differential equations. Markowich joined KAUST in 2011 and has contributed to over 270 projects worldwide. Why it matters: This honor brings recognition to KAUST's faculty and highlights the university's contribution to advanced mathematical research with applications across science and engineering.
KAUST Ph.D. student Chiheb Ben Hammouda won the best poster award at the Society for Industrial and Applied Mathematics Conference on Financial Mathematics & Engineering (FM19) for his work on option pricing under the rough Bergomi model. The winning poster, titled "Hierarchical adaptive sparse grids and quasi-Monte Carlo for option pricing under the rough Bergomi model," details research carried out under the supervision of KAUST Professor Raul Tempone. The research group designed new efficient numerical methods for pricing derivatives under the rough Bergomi model by combining smoothing techniques. Why it matters: This award highlights KAUST's growing expertise in financial mathematics and its contribution to solving complex problems in the field using advanced numerical methods.
KAUST's Stochastic Numerics Research Group is developing methods for pricing European options. Their approach, detailed in an upcoming Journal of Computational Finance article, focuses on systematically tuning parameters to achieve accuracy while minimizing computational effort. The goal is to enable automated computation of fair prices for options contracts, similar to how insurance companies determine premiums. Why it matters: This research advances computational finance in the region, potentially improving risk management and investment strategies.
KAUST hosted the New Challenges in Heterogeneous Catalysis research conference from January 29-31. The conference brought together catalysis researchers from KAUST and abroad to inspire future research and discuss challenges in heterogeneous catalysis. Discussions focused on new chemistry, catalytic materials, understanding catalytic processes, and activation of small molecules like methane and carbon dioxide. Why it matters: Catalysis research is crucial for KAUST's research thrusts in food, water, energy, and environment, contributing to sustainable development and green chemistry in the region.
KAUST researchers are exploring novel chemical reactors and separation processes using mathematical design, with a focus on time and shape variables to enhance transport, heat transfer, and mass transfer. By aligning design, modeling, and 3D printing, they create customized shapes with great complexity and less material. This approach allows for the creation of bespoke reactors and separation processes tailored to specific applications, improving efficiency and reducing energy consumption. Why it matters: This research demonstrates the potential of advanced manufacturing techniques to revolutionize industrial design in the Middle East's chemical and pharmaceutical sectors.
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.