KAUST Ph.D. candidate Ahmed Alfadhel won the IEEE best research paper award for his work on artificial skin. The artificial skin design uses a flexible magnetic nano-composite cilia surface with a magnetic field sensing element. The device exhibits unprecedented flexibility due to the embedding of magnetic cilia and the sensing element in a polymeric surface. Why it matters: This research enables the development of cheaper, more versatile tactile sensors for health monitoring, robotics, and prosthetics, potentially advancing personalized healthcare and human-machine interfaces in the region.
KAUST Ph.D. student Abdullah Almansouri won a best poster award at the 2019 Joint MMM-INTERMAG Conference for his work on a super-flexible composite magnet, or "magnetic skin". The research, carried out by the Sensing, Magnetism and Microsystems (SMM) group, developed a stretchable and biocompatible wearable magnet. The device's flexible properties make it comfortable and imperceptible when worn. Why it matters: This research contributes to the growing field of wearable technology and biomedical monitoring, with potential applications in eye-movement tracking and touchless gesture control.
KAUST researchers Yichen Cai and Jie Shen, led by Dr. Vincent Tung, are developing electronic skin (e-skin) using 2D materials like MXenes. Their research, published in Science Advances, focuses on mimicking human skin functions like sensing and adapting to stimuli. The team leverages the unique properties of 2D materials to create flexible and efficient electronic systems for next-generation electronics. Why it matters: This work advances materials science in the region, potentially enabling breakthroughs in flexible electronics, healthcare monitoring, and robotics.
KAUST Ph.D. student José Efraín Pérez won the Magnetism as Art Showcase People’s Choice Award at the 62nd Annual Conference on Magnetism and Magnetic Materials (MMM) 2017 for his artwork "Magnetic Nanobeacon." The artwork represents magnetic nanowires embedded in a nanoporous template. Pérez's research focuses on biomedical applications of nanostructures, using nanowires as a scaffold for stem cell differentiation. Why it matters: This award highlights the innovative research at KAUST in the area of magnetic nanostructures and their potential applications in biomedicine.
KAUST researchers created a flexible temperature array by drawing a resistor structure with a silver conductive ink pen on Post-it paper. The array functions as an artificial skin sensor. The device demonstrates a low-cost approach to wearable sensors. Why it matters: This research offers a path to scalable and accessible sensor technology for health monitoring and other applications in the region.
KAUST hosted the Second International Spin-Orbit Torque Workshop, gathering spintronics scientists to discuss advancements in controlling magnetism in nanodevices. The workshop featured talks by pioneers in the field and discussions on new results, including the electrical manipulation of an antiferromagnet and the observation of room-temperature skyrmions. The workshop's format encouraged interactions and identified new research directions. Why it matters: This event highlights KAUST's role in fostering international collaboration and driving innovation in advanced materials and nanotechnology, crucial for next-generation memory and data storage solutions.
KAUST researchers led by Dr. Muhammad Hussain have developed a flexible, transparent silicon-on-polymer based FinFET inspired by the folded architecture of the human brain's cortex. The team created a 3D FinFET on a flexible platform without compromising integration density or performance. They aim to demonstrate a fully flexible silicon-based computer by the end of the year. Why it matters: This research could lead to the development of ultra-mobile, foldable computers and integrated circuits, advancing the field of flexible electronics in the region.
KAUST Ph.D. student Altynay Kaidarova was elected to IEEE's Next Generation Magneticans Advisory Board in November 2017. She presented her research on underwater animal monitoring magnetic sensor systems at the 62nd Annual Conference on Magnetism and Magnetic Materials (MMM 2017). Kaidarova hopes the position will provide her with necessary skills, connections, and self-confidence to contribute to the international magnetism community. Why it matters: This highlights KAUST's commitment to fostering emerging talent and its contribution to marine research and environmental conservation through advanced sensor technologies.