A KAUST-led team developed a nano-optical chip capable of generating and controlling nanoscale rogue waves. The chip, detailed in Nature Physics, uses a planar photonic crystal fabricated at the University of St. Andrews and tested at FOM Institute AMOLF. It enables unprecedented control over these rare, high-energy events, opening possibilities for energy research and environmental safety. Why it matters: This innovation provides a new platform for studying extreme events and potentially harnessing their energy, advancing both fundamental science and practical applications in areas like renewable energy and disaster prevention.
KAUST researchers studied the meteorological origins of sea-level extremes in the Red Sea using computer simulations and the ADCIRC storm surge model. They validated their datasets with hourly sea-level observations from six tidal gauges along the Saudi coast. The study found that wind variations over the southern part of the sea are the main drivers of basin-wide sea-level extremes. Why it matters: This research provides critical insights for managing and developing the Red Sea coastline, including megacity projects and tourism, while mitigating their impact on the marine environment.
KAUST scientists are developing models to predict extreme weather events like the 2009 Jeddah flood, which caused significant damage. Prof. Ibrahim Hoteit's team is using data from satellites, international sources, and local entities like PME and the Jeddah Municipality to build high-resolution models. The aim is to improve predictions of extreme rain events by one or two days and issue timely warnings. Why it matters: Improving extreme weather prediction is crucial for mitigating the impact of climate change in vulnerable regions like the GCC.
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 researchers studied microplastic distribution in the open ocean during a recent expedition. They found microplastics everywhere but in 100 times lower quantities than expected based on production estimates. The study found larger plastic debris at expected levels, but smaller microplastics were disappearing, suggesting they are either sinking or entering the marine food chain. Why it matters: This research highlights the urgent need to understand the fate of microplastics in marine ecosystems and their potential impact on marine life and human health.
KAUST researchers have made several advances, including a new computational model of the Red Sea's ocean circulation. They also synthesized new metal-organic frameworks for gas storage with applications in green and medical tech. Additionally, they presented a mathematical solution for microgrid cybersecurity. Why it matters: These diverse research projects highlight KAUST's contributions to environmental modeling, materials science, and critical infrastructure protection in the region.
KAUST is hosting the Marine Megafauna Movement Workshop (October 19-20) featuring international speakers showcasing research on marine animal behavior using sensors and analytics. Enrichment in the Fall 2015 (October 16-24) at KAUST will focus on marine animal movement with lectures, trips, movies, and music. KAUST aims to merge research on marine animal movement with the study of human mobility to gain new insights. Why it matters: This interdisciplinary approach could advance understanding of both marine ecosystems and human behavior, while promoting marine conservation efforts in the Red Sea.
Geophysicists at KAUST are investigating the "doublet" earthquake phenomenon in Turkey, where two strong earthquakes of magnitude 7.8 and 7.7 occurred within nine hours of each other on separate faults. Researchers from the Crustal Deformation and InSAR Group and the Computational Earthquake Seismology research group are using satellite and seismic data to examine the earthquake rupture process. The National Center for Earthquake and Volcano monitoring (NCEV) of the Saudi Geological Survey contributes seismic recordings to the KAUST teams. Why it matters: Understanding such earthquake doublets is crucial for improving seismic hazard assessment and risk mitigation in the region and globally.