KAUST researchers have developed an artificial electronic retina mimicking the behavior of rod retina cells, utilizing a hybrid perovskite material (MAPbBr3) embedded in PVDF-TrFE-CEF. The photoreceptor array, made of metal-insulator-metal capacitors, detects light intensity through changes in electrical capacitance. Connected to a CMOS-sensing circuit and a spiking neural network, the 4x4 array achieved around 70 percent accuracy in recognizing handwritten numbers. Why it matters: This research paves the way for energy-efficient neuromorphic vision sensors and advanced computer vision applications, potentially revolutionizing camera technology.
Eleven alumni from KAUST's Saudi Research Science Institute (SRSI) excelled at the Regeneron International Science and Engineering Fair (ISEF), a global pre-college STEM competition. The Saudi team, including SRSI participants, collectively secured 12 grand prizes and 12 special awards at the event held in Phoenix, Arizona. Four SRSI alumni received high recognition, including Lana Alaggad for her project on optoelectronic memristors for neuromorphic vision systems. Why it matters: This highlights Saudi Arabia's investment in cultivating young STEM talent through programs like SRSI at KAUST, preparing future innovators and aligning with Saudi Vision 2030's human capital development goals, with specific relevance to AI in neuromorphic computing.