KAUST researchers are undertaking a project to improve global date palm production and protection by studying the date palm genome, collecting samples from ancient palms near Madinah. They aim to develop new breeding strategies for faster, healthier, and more pest-resistant palms. The research involves advanced genome sequencing and the creation of molecular tools to improve date palm agriculture, including rapid sex determination methods and gene editing. Why it matters: This research is critical for enhancing date production in arid regions like Saudi Arabia, which is a major global producer, and for ensuring food security amidst climate challenges.
KAUST alumna Dr. Hanin Ahmed has been awarded a Marie Skłodowska-Curie Actions (MSCA) Postdoctoral Fellowship to research the biological traits, ancestry, and symbolic roles of horses used in ancient rituals. She will analyze DNA samples from 97 sites across France, linking biology with ritual behavior. Ahmed previously held an Ibn Rushd Fellowship from KAUST, which supported her move to the University of Toulouse. Why it matters: This prestigious fellowship highlights the quality of research and training at KAUST while enabling exploration of the co-evolution of humans and animals through genomics and archaeology.
Hanin Ahmed, a KAUST Ph.D. graduate in plant science, is now an Ibn-Rushd Postdoctoral Fellow at The Centre for Anthropology and Genomics of Toulouse, France. Her Ph.D. research at KAUST focused on the population genomics and evolutionary history of fonio millet and einkorn wheat. One key finding was the influence of ethnic groups on the genetic diversity of fonio millet, and insights into wheat adaptation during early agriculture from einkorn wheat research published in Nature. Why it matters: This highlights KAUST's role in training researchers who are contributing to advancements in genomics and agriculture, with implications for crop improvement and understanding the impact of social factors on plant genetics.
KAUST researchers reported the full genome sequencing of einkorn wheat in Nature. A new 'cooling score' metric was created to study heat's impact on solar cell performance. KAUST is also optimizing MXenes for lithium batteries and using biomimetic mineralization for smart agriculture. Why it matters: This research demonstrates KAUST's contributions to diverse fields, including genomics, sustainable energy, and smart agriculture, advancing technological innovation in Saudi Arabia.
The KAUST Pathogen Genomics Laboratory (PGL), led by Professor Arnab Pain, is using DNA and RNA sequencing to study the SARS-CoV-2 virus. The lab is part of KAUST's Rapid Research Response Team (R3T), supporting Saudi healthcare stakeholders in combating COVID-19. Pain and his Ph.D. student Sharif Hala are partnering with the Saudi-CDC and Ministry of Health hospitals to sequence Saudi SARS-CoV-2 samples. Why it matters: This effort provides crucial data for understanding and monitoring the virus's spread and evolution within the Kingdom, informing public health strategies.
KAUST researchers are analyzing the SARS-CoV-2 genome to identify potential targets for treatment and vaccine development. They are using the KAUST Metagenome Analysis Platform (KMAP) and the university's supercomputer to compare and analyze genomic data. The research focuses on identifying key genes for detection and treatment of COVID-19. Why it matters: This research contributes to the global effort to combat the pandemic and highlights KAUST's capabilities in genomic data analysis and computational bioscience.
A KAUST-led research team sequenced the first high-quality quinoa genome. This achievement may enhance our ability to feed the world's growing population. The research was conducted at King Abdullah University of Science and Technology. Why it matters: This breakthrough in genomics could lead to more resilient and nutritious crops, contributing to global food security efforts.
Dr. Takashi Gojobori, a KAUST professor and expert in molecular evolution, received an honorary doctoral degree from National Cheng Kung University (NCKU) in Taiwan. The degree recognizes Gojobori's contributions to evolutionary genomics and molecular evolution. A KAUST delegation led by VP James A. Calvin attended the conferring ceremony. Why it matters: The recognition highlights KAUST's faculty quality and contributions to international research collaborations.
NYU Professor Michael Purugganan presented at KAUST's 2014 Winter Enrichment Program (WEP 2014) on the origins of crop species. He discussed how genome sequencing is improving our understanding of crop evolution, using date fruits collected in Jeddah as an example. His research on rice showed that two varieties, japonica and indica, share a single common ancestor, contrary to previous assumptions. Why it matters: Understanding crop evolution can help adapt crops to changing environments, which is crucial for food security in regions like the Middle East.
The Russian Immune Diversity Atlas project aims to profile immune cells from people of different ancestries at a multiomics level. The goal is to reconstruct a reference atlas of the healthy immune system and investigate its perturbations in Type II Diabetes (T2D). The project seeks to identify novel mechanisms and genetic/epigenetic markers for early T2D diagnostics, prognosis, and therapy as part of the international Human Cell Atlas. Why it matters: Addressing genetic diversity in biomedical research, particularly in the context of the Human Cell Atlas, is crucial for personalized medicine and ensuring that treatments are effective across diverse populations in the Middle East and globally.
Janet Kelso from the Max Planck Institute and Sudhir Kumar from Temple University discussed evolutionary biology in a KAUST Facebook Live interview. Kelso's research focuses on interactions between modern humans and Neanderthals, finding similarities in DNA and benefits for environmental adaptation. Kumar's work, highly cited, involves big data analyses in evolutionary biology. Why it matters: The interview highlights KAUST's engagement with international experts in bioinformatics and evolutionary biology, promoting interdisciplinary research and knowledge dissemination.