KAUST's Academic Divisions and Research Centers unite faculty, researchers, and students from various disciplines to tackle fundamental and goal-oriented problems. The Biological and Environmental Science & Engineering Division (BESE) focuses on organisms' responses to the environment and develops innovative technologies. The Computer, Electrical and Mathematical Science and Engineering Division (CEMSE) centers on predicting complex natural phenomena and optimizing processes for clean water and energy. Why it matters: This overview of KAUST's divisions illustrates the breadth of research activity and its focus on key challenges for Saudi Arabia and the region.
Saudi Aramco and KAUST broke ground on December 16 for a new research center. The center's focus and planned capabilities were not disclosed in the provided text. Why it matters: This signals continued investment in research infrastructure within Saudi Arabia, although details are currently limited.
KAUST's Laboratory of Stem Cells and Diseases, led by Assistant Professor Antonio Adamo, uses induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) to model diseases like diabetes. The lab employs a reprogramming technique to revert patient fibroblasts into iPSCs, enabling the study of disease progression in vitro. Adamo's research focuses on enzymes and disregulated transcriptional/epigenetic mechanisms to understand disease onset. Why it matters: This research contributes to regenerative medicine and offers insights into metabolic diseases relevant to the GCC region.
KAUST researchers are working on solutions to regional and global problems. A KAUST underwater glider completed 1,000 dives in the Red Sea. KAUST was ranked 19th globally in the Nature Index 2016 of top institutions for high-quality science. Why it matters: This illustrates KAUST's commitment to impactful research and its role as a leading scientific institution in the region.
KAUST Discovery Professor Jesper Tegnér collaborated with UK researchers to develop algorithms explaining decision-making in insects and rats. Assoc. Prof. Robert Hoehndorf's lab introduced a tool for identifying genetic variants linked to rare diseases based on patient symptoms. KAUST scientists also studied monkeypox infection of human skin using stem cells and marine microbiome adaptation to thermal changes. Why it matters: These diverse research projects highlight KAUST's contributions to computational biology, virology, and marine science, advancing knowledge with implications for healthcare and environmental challenges.