Professor Sahika Inal from King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST) has been awarded the Alexander von Humboldt Professorship, Germany's most prestigious research award. The professorship, funded by the German Federal Ministry of Education and Research with up to €5 million, recognizes her leadership in next-generation bioelectronic materials and health technologies. She will establish a leading center for bioelectronic materials and devices in partnership with Dresden University of Technology and the Leibniz Institute of Polymer Research Dresden. Why it matters: This award underscores KAUST's research excellence in biomedical sciences and its faculty's global recognition, while fostering significant international collaboration in advanced health technologies.
The Technology Innovation Institute (TII) and Mohamed bin Zayed University of Artificial Intelligence (MBZUAI) are partnering to advance Abu Dhabi's smart city vision by 2030. TII's AI and Digital Science Research Center (AIDRC) will mentor MBZUAI faculty and students in developing AI models for cybersecurity and smart city applications over three years. The collaboration will focus on securing systems like sustainable buildings, 5G networks, and autonomous systems. Why it matters: This partnership strengthens Abu Dhabi's AI and cybersecurity capabilities, contributing to the UAE's position as a leader in R&D innovation for smart city technologies.
MBZUAI and TII have formed a partnership to advance AI research and strengthen the AI ecosystem in the UAE. The collaboration framework enables joint fundamental and applied research in key domains of AI, including neuromorphic computing and autonomous vehicles. The two organizations will share research resources and exchange students, faculty, and researchers. Why it matters: This partnership strengthens Abu Dhabi's position as a regional AI hub and promotes economic growth through AI-based knowledge.
Professor Mohamed-Slim Alouini of KAUST has been elected to the U.S. National Academy of Engineering for his contributions to wireless communication systems. Alouini is the first faculty member elected to the NAE while serving at KAUST, and his work focuses on non-terrestrial networks. He aims to extend connectivity to underserved regions and support applications like emergency response and environmental monitoring. Why it matters: This recognition highlights KAUST's ability to attract world-leading scholars and contributes to Saudi Vision 2030 by translating research into real-world impact.
UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan visited the Mohamed bin Zayed University of Artificial Intelligence (MBZUAI) in a high-profile tour. During his visit, he interacted with students and faculty, emphasizing the critical role of AI education and research for the nation's future development. The visit underscored the UAE's significant commitment to advancing its capabilities and talent pool in the field of artificial intelligence. Why it matters: This direct engagement from the UAE's top leadership highlights the strategic importance of MBZUAI as a cornerstone of the country's national AI agenda and its efforts to foster a knowledge-based economy.
Enowa and KAUST held the Enowa-KAUST Energy Summit 2024, celebrating the third year of their Energy Cortex Program. The Energy Cortex Program funds applied research for clean energy solutions, focusing on renewable energy technologies led by KAUST faculty. The program is structured around Weatherlytics, GenFlex Cortex, Stor Cortex, and Grid Cortex, and has engaged KAUST professors, produced six journal papers, and provided NEOM with data. Why it matters: This partnership aims to revolutionize renewable energy in Saudi Arabia by integrating AI and advanced data analytics to optimize energy generation and distribution, supporting the Kingdom's sustainable energy goals.
Jürgen Schmidhuber has been appointed as the Director of the KAUST AI Initiative. Schmidhuber is known for his contributions to deep learning and artificial neural networks, and co-founded the company NNAISENSE. At KAUST, he will focus on faculty recruitment, educational programs, and collaboration with public and private sectors. Why it matters: The appointment of a leading AI researcher signals KAUST and Saudi Arabia's commitment to advancing AI research and its application to key national projects.
Educational institutions from the UAE and Israel have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) focused on artificial intelligence. The agreement aims to foster collaboration in AI research, development, and education between the two nations. This partnership facilitates knowledge exchange, joint projects, and student and faculty mobility in AI fields. Why it matters: This marks a significant step in regional academic and technological cooperation, potentially accelerating AI innovation and talent development across the Middle East.