Windows to a sustainable future

Dec 12, 2018

For researchers seeking entrepreneurial opportunities, KAUST can provide the perfect springboard.

Brighter blue lights for faster communication

Dec 11, 2018

High-performance blue-light-emitting diodes could boost white lighting and high-speed data transmission.

Weaker pressure systems in the Arctic cause warm winters in the Arabian Peninsula

Dec 10, 2018

Investigating links between surface air temperatures and large-scale circulation patterns builds understanding of climate variability in the Arabian Peninsula.

Sensitive robots feel the strain

Dec 10, 2018

Flexible skin for soft robots, embedded with electrical nanowires, combines conductivity with sensitivity within the same material.

Carbon emissions smoked

Dec 9, 2018

Helpful microbes inhale CO₂ through a porous cylindrical electrode and exude useful chemicals.

Capturing spray from flash-boiling liquid jets

Dec 4, 2018

Ultrafast video capture of droplet cloud formation should help minimize the risk of gas-leak explosions.

Chasing spatial patterns

Dec 2, 2018

A more accurate way of resolving spatial patterns in weather could lead to better predictions of climate change.

Drinking water sucked from the dusty desert air

Nov 25, 2018

An inexpensive hydrogel-based material efficiently captures moisture even from low-humidity air and then releases it on demand.

Biodiesel by-product helps fuel come clean

Nov 22, 2018

A compound made from the glycerol by-product of biodiesel production could promote cleaner burning in vehicle engines.

Surface science concepts are up for revision

Nov 19, 2018

Immersion could become the ultimate test for assessing the wetting properties of coating-free microtextured surfaces. 

Plankton communities warm response to nutrient availability

Nov 14, 2018

Investigating plankton communities' reaction to rising water temperatures may improve modeling of marine ecosystem responses to global warming. 

Putting the squeeze on soot

Nov 11, 2018

Understanding the effect pressure has on soot production during fuel combustion could help reduce polluting emissions.

The Indian summer monsoon keeps the Arabian Peninsula hot and dry

Nov 7, 2018

Modeling shows that the Indian summer monsoon can trigger heatwaves and sandstorms on the Arabian Peninsula. 

New stats apps show a virtual reality

Nov 5, 2018

Harnessing the power of virtual reality will help to visualize data and improve statistical models.

Making collective sense of brainwaves

Oct 31, 2018

A new statistical tool for collectively analyzing large sets of brainwaves promises to accelerate neurofunctional research. 

Crystals that clean natural gas

Oct 29, 2018

A metal-organic framework that selectively removes impurities from natural gas could allow greater use of this cleaner fossil fuel.

Polymers offer a better view

Oct 24, 2018

A window opens for analyzing the distribution of small molecules in biological and medical tissue samples.

Stimulating deeper insights into brain function 

Oct 18, 2018

Modeling changes in brain activity over time provides deeper insights into learning and behavioral responses.

Basking in a quantum efficiency glow

Oct 15, 2018

Printable solar materials could soon turn many parts of a house into solar panels.

Computing solutions for biological problems

Oct 14, 2018

Xin Gao’s research is building bridges between computer science and biology.

Thin films for more efficient solar cells

Oct 8, 2018

Tantalum nitride as thin layers improves the extraction of electrons from silicon solar cells.

Mining Red Sea bacteria for industrial potential

Oct 4, 2018

Genome sequencing of two Red Sea bacteria highlights their potential as industrial workhorses. 

Reining in computational complexity

Oct 2, 2018

A more efficient approach to modeling spatial data involving thousands of variables keeps computation time in check.

Smart mud to smooth the way for drilling wells

Sep 30, 2018

A comprehensive model for simulating mudcake growth during oil extraction could transform well-drilling protocols.

Cryptic coral reef creatures show cross-shelf biodiversity patterns

Sep 26, 2018

Composition in cryptic fauna assemblages changes across a shelf gradient, a recent study of the Red Sea shows.  

Attempting to tame plasmas in fusion

Sep 24, 2018

A numerical study reveals how to reduce instabilities in the complex flow of plasma in converging geometry of particles in fusion reactions.

Science for society: innovation and translation research

Sep 24, 2018

KAUST places great emphasis on translating university know-how into real-world impact, say Kevin Cullen, vice president of Innovation and Economic Development, and John Tannaci, associate vice president for research.

Solving real-world problems

Sep 19, 2018

A tool developed by Håvard Rue has transformed data analysis, interpretation and communication. It has been applied broadly: from modeling the spread of infectious diseases to mapping fish stocks.

Novel carbon source sustains deep-sea microorganism communities

Sep 16, 2018

A carbon source stemming from daily fish migrations is implicated in the global carbon cycle.

Shells absorb light from all directions

Sep 12, 2018

Nanoparticles with a shell structure improve the performance of zinc-oxide photodetectors.

Reusing water to grow quality food in cities

Sep 9, 2018

Research to optimize aquaponics systems could inform a new era of urban food production.

Bio-inspired materials decrease drag for liquids

Sep 6, 2018

Tiny nature-inspired cavities that trap air can stop liquids from sticking to surfaces without the need for coatings.

The holistic approach to catalyzing change

Sep 6, 2018

Rethinking industry-scale catalytic processes could slash global energy consumption and even turn carbon dioxide into a valuable commodity.

How extreme weather exacerbates air pollution

Sep 4, 2018

Simultaneously modeling air pollutants and weather under extreme conditions highlights the potential for serious health risks.  

Quantifying Red Sea plastics from coasts to fish

Sep 2, 2018

While drones scan beaches to assess plastic litter, microplastics are found in the digestive tracts of one in every six Red Sea fish.

Anemones rely on epigenetics during symbiosis

Aug 16, 2018

Epigenetic mechanisms adjust gene expression in anemone symbiosis.

Solar fuels working well under pressure

Aug 12, 2018

Computer analysis aids the formulation of methanol-based renewable fuels that can operate under compression ignition conditions.

Hybrid nanomaterials bristle with potential

Aug 7, 2018

Triple-layered nanoarray electrode promises to boost battery performance and enhance other electrochemical processes.

Renewables could drastically cut tailpipe emissions

Aug 5, 2018

Ethanol and related gasoline replacement fuels produce fewer smog-causing chemicals.

The dynamic molecular changes of homing

Aug 5, 2018

Molecules reorganize to slow stem cells down, giving them a chance to adhere to and eventually cross the inner lining of blood vessels into the bone marrow.

Lasers write better anodes

Jul 29, 2018

Laser-scribed disordered graphene significantly improves sodium-ion battery capacity.

Bacteria that boost plant pumps against drought

Jul 29, 2018

Adding certain types of bacteria to soil could help protect plants against drought by activating a proton pump in root cells.

Lighting the way to harvest water from air

Jul 22, 2018

A low-cost method for collecting water from the atmosphere could be used to provide potable water to dry, inland regions.

Red Sea flushes faster from far-flung volcanoes 

Jul 22, 2018

Volcanic eruptions in Mexico and the Philippines can lead to atmospheric changes that favor the ventilation of deep water in the Red Sea.

Taking the lead toward witchweed control

Jul 19, 2018

A compound that binds to and inhibits a crucial receptor protein offers a new route for controlling a parasitic plant.

Water desalination picks up the pace

Jul 15, 2018

A membrane made of porous carbon-fiber structures grown on a porous ceramic substrate is more efficient than similar existing membranes at filtering seawater.

Keeping up with sea-level rise

Jul 15, 2018

Maintaining a balance between rising sea levels and soil accumulation will rely on careful management of coastal regions.

Searching for wind for the future

Jul 15, 2018

The first quantification of wind energy in Saudi Arabia points to high wind power potential for many decades to come.

Mysterious gentle giants gather off Saudi coast

Jul 8, 2018

Investigations of prey patterns fail to explain why whale sharks aggregate off the coast of Saudi Arabia.

Superior seismic imaging for better drilling

Jul 8, 2018

Software could transform underground imaging of fossil fuel reserves by providing unprecedented detail in record time. 

Putting gas under pressure

Jul 8, 2018

Understanding the response of gas flames to acoustic perturbations at high pressure should make next-generation turbines safer and more efficient.

Remote corals pay the price of climate change

Jul 1, 2018

Corals, even in the most far-flung locations, are being affected by climate change but fare better in marine protected areas. 

Scanning in the fourth dimension

Jul 1, 2018

A novel imaging method makes it possible to capture object deformation in three dimensions over time with unprecedented accuracy.

Future for crop breeding is CRISPR and clear

Jul 1, 2018

Precision molecular tools derived from bacterial defence systems are transforming the theory and practice of genetic modification.

Sustainability hinges on water and energy use

Jun 24, 2018

A plant scientist, a water specialist and a petroleum engineer walk onto a panel, “how do you define sustainability?” one asks.

Bacteria proven to be worth their salt

Jun 24, 2018

Bacteria isolated from desert plants could provide the key to maintaining productive agriculture in arid regions.

Simple swap for a greener toolkit 

Jun 24, 2018

A metal catalyst that gives distinct carbon-based molecular skeletons upon ligand change may unlock cost-effective, green synthetic routes.

Detecting metabolites at close range

Jun 22, 2018

Pairing a conjugated polymer with a redox enzyme generates a fast, selective and sensitive electrochemical biosensor for metabolites.

Anemones take the heat with a little help from their friends

Jun 17, 2018

Research reveals the genetic response to heat stress and highlights symbiotic algae’s role.

Fuel chemistry distilled

Jun 17, 2018

A new conceptual model for describing a fuel’s composition can accelerate and simplify combustion simulations.

Electronic skin stretched to new limits

Jun 15, 2018

A metal carbide within a hydrogel composite senses, stretches and heals like human skin for use in medicine and robotics.

Robots learn by checking in on team members

Jun 10, 2018

Innovative drone designs and software enable a team of drones to work together in a coordinated approach. 

Boring down on boron

Jun 10, 2018

Learning how boron evaporates will help to improve water desalination technologies.

Coral tricks for adapting to ocean acidification

Jun 7, 2018

A molecular process that signals distress could also help corals adapt to climate change.

Solar energy tapped for clean water

Jun 3, 2018

A 3D solar-steam generator design squeezes every last drop of energy from sunlight to produce fresh water.

Making loudspeakers resonate like atoms

Jun 3, 2018

Tiny loudspeakers can efficiently produce low-frequency sounds due to effects similar to the quantum physics governing atoms.

The long and short of DNA replication

May 27, 2018

An unexpected two-step mechanism occurs when cells copy DNA.

A metallic meeting in the middle

May 27, 2018

The interface between two tin-oxide semiconductors can exhibit unexpected metallic properties. 

Synchronized swimming for seal migrations

May 27, 2018

Adding sound to elephant seal migration data reveals high levels of coordination when swimming long distances.

Point patterns help to predict landslides

May 20, 2018

Rainfall simulations in statistical models could allow accurate prediction of dangerous landslides.

Finding Nemo’s genes: reef fish genome mapped and shared

May 20, 2018

Nemo’s genome has been deciphered and made publicly available, helping researchers further investigate fish ecology and evolution.

Combing light for tell-tale chemical fingerprints

May 20, 2018

Spotting signatures of potential pollutants made easier with quantum lasers that emit tunable infrared light.

Enzyme adopts dynamic structure to function in hot, salty sea

May 13, 2018

Protein analysis could lead to new advances in DNA sequencing technologies.

Connecting the dots to unlock brain structure

May 13, 2018

Mapping genetic influences on connections between neural networks could lead to a better understanding of brain organization and behavior.

Mimicking a sweet solution to mop up pollution

May 11, 2018

A fast and safe method to prepare a 3D porous material that mimics the shape of a honeycomb could have broad applications from catalysis to drug delivery or for filtering air to remove pollutants or viruses.

A seismic shift in oil exploration

May 6, 2018

Advanced analysis of seismic data could lead the next wave in oil exploration.

Mapping movements of ocean creatures great and small

May 6, 2018

Big data shows that large marine vertebrates move differently, but consistently, through coastal and ocean waters.

A clearer future for underwater exploration

May 6, 2018

An optical communication system could revolutionize underwater exploration and discovery.

Smart skin for flexible monitoring

May 3, 2018

An electronic tag that stretches and flexes while it records location and environmental data can monitor marine animals in their natural habitat.

Later tropical blooms could affect marine life

Apr 29, 2018

Color changes in the northern Red Sea indicate rising sea temperatures could significantly impact tropical marine ecosystems.

Lining MOF pockets to detect noxious gases

Apr 29, 2018

Custom-made gas-sensing material could lead to inexpensive devices for real-time air-quality analysis.

Controlling the crystal structure of gallium oxide

Apr 29, 2018

Precise control of the atomic structure of gallium oxide layers improves the development of high-power electronic devices.

Microbial communities have a seasonal shake-up

Apr 22, 2018

Turbulence and nutrient availability drive changes in Red Sea microbes.

Energy efficiency on a roll

Apr 22, 2018

Ultrathin films curve up into long, light and cost-effective heat-harvesting tubes for high-power generation.

Surface engineering gets the red light

Apr 22, 2018

Perovskite particles could improve the performance of solar cells and light-emitting diodes via a simple process to stabilize the nanocrystal surface.

Computer models combat malaria

Apr 15, 2018

A new malaria metabolic model may uncover better ways to treat a highly deadly disease.

Shielding oxygen production to keep hydrogen coming

Apr 15, 2018

A porous cerium-based coating boosts the durability of oxygen-forming catalysts while maintaining their inherent water-splitting activity.

Building crystals on a very hot surface

Apr 15, 2018

An innovative chemical reactor for depositing semiconductors at very high temperatures draws on the strength of Saudi Arabia’s chemical industry.

Powering the bottom line 

Apr 8, 2018

A risk-based optimization scheme boosts confidence and profitability for future mixed-technology power plants.

The raw power of human motion

Apr 8, 2018

Standalone power modules that harvest and convert vibrations from their surroundings into electricity could soon fuel future microsystems.

Minding the gap ahead of future fuels

Apr 1, 2018

Oil expert Tadeusz Patzek aims to ensure that efficient recovery of oil and gas remains feasible whilst scientists find alternative green energy sources.

Tuning in to magnetic ink

Apr 1, 2018

A new ink containing iron oxide nanoparticles can be turned into fully printed and versatile components for cellular networks.

Hussain is taking a flexible approach

Mar 25, 2018

From farming to healthcare, there are few areas of our lives that couldn’t be enhanced by incorporating flexible CMOS electronics.

Grime does pay when it comes to wastewater filters

Mar 25, 2018

A grimy layer on wastewater filters could slow the spread of antibiotic resistance.  

Low pressure reduces bubble trouble

Mar 25, 2018

Spray coating and inkjet-based electronics manufacture are among the industrial applications in which liquid droplets are applied to a surface. But minuscule air bubbles that get trapped beneath the droplet as it lands can affect the coating’s quality and uniformity.

Zooming in on brain function

Mar 18, 2018

Faster computations will allow researchers to see the finer details of brain activity in functional brain imaging.

New eyes in the skies

Mar 18, 2018

The availability of high-resolution data collected by miniaturized satellites heralds a turning point in Earth and environmental sensing from space.

Potential for a cleaner blend of fuel

Mar 18, 2018

A technique modeling the combustion characteristics of gasoline blended with biofuels for cleaner and more efficient fuels.

DNA imaging made easy

Mar 11, 2018

New method offers a means of efficient and high-throughput technique to study the structure of DNA.

Marine exploration sensing with light and sound

Mar 11, 2018

Unveiling new strategies to improve future wireless underwater sensing networks for marine research and communication.

Glaciers provide clues to combat desertification

Mar 4, 2018

Understanding how bacteria help convert glacier bedrock into soil could help address desertification. 

Cleaning nanowires to get out more light

Mar 4, 2018

A simple chemical surface treatment improves the performance of nanowire ultraviolet light-emitting diodes. 

A light touch for revealing atomic frameworks  

Mar 4, 2018

Materials that normally become damaged inside electron microscopes can now be imaged with atom-scale resolution.

Layered oxides for rechargeable zinc batteries

Feb 25, 2018

A technique of microwave synthesis of layered oxides enables high-capacity aqueous zinc-ion batteries. 

High salinity protects corals from heat stress

Feb 25, 2018

Corals living in highly saline waters may be more tolerant to rising water temperatures. 

Challenging statistics of weather extremes

Feb 25, 2018

More accurate statistical modeling of extreme weather will improve forecasting and disaster mitigation.

Pulling rank on spatial statistics

Feb 18, 2018

A technique that uses the power of computing could solve statistical problems cheaper and faster than current methods.

A delivery platform for gene-editing technology

Feb 18, 2018

Nanomaterial coating enables efficient delivery of CRISPR-Cas9 machinery into the cell. 

Giving seagrass its due

Feb 18, 2018

Seagrass meadows play a pivotal role in protecting coasts against rising sea levels.

Wiser ways with water

Feb 11, 2018

Safety assurance is the first step in bringing valuable wastewater into use, says Peiying Hong.

Making data more accessible

Feb 11, 2018

Ying Sun is a multi-award-winning statistician who is inspired by the value of statistics in solving real-world problems.

Khashab harnesses nature’s genius for tiny deliveries

Feb 11, 2018

2017 recipient of the L’Oréal-UNESCO for Women in Science Award Niveen Khashab builds nanoscale ‘miniature machines’ with diverse applications.

Bacterial superheroes may save the day for crops

Feb 4, 2018

Genetic analyses of a desert bacterium show it could help to improve crop production in arid lands.

Round-the-clock power from smart bowties

Feb 4, 2018

Innovative diode design uses ultrafast quantum tunneling to harvest infrared energy from the environment.

Super-adsorbent MOF to control humidity

Feb 4, 2018

A metal-organic framework that can take up twice its weight in water and then release it when humidity falls.

Flexing for the next silicon wave

Jan 28, 2018

Ultrathin, rigid silicon segments that are wired through interdigitated metal contacts produce ultraflexible high-performance solar cells.

Revealing hidden relationships in data

Jan 28, 2018

A method to visualize hidden statistical structure helps make sense of environmental data. 

Coral lifestyles reflected in their genes

Jan 28, 2018

A comparison of the genomes of two species of coral demonstrates unexpected genetic diversity.

Not just a stem cell marker

Jan 21, 2018

The protein CD₃₄ is predominantly regarded as a marker of blood-forming stem cells but it helps with migration to the bone marrow too.

Rocking the cradle of humankind

Jan 21, 2018

Geophysical modeling of one of the world’s most important fossil sites reveals the history of the site where early humankind evolved.

Taking control at the junction

Jan 21, 2018

Fine tuning the composition of nitride alloys can further the development of optical and electronic interface devices.

Enzyme from briny deep resurrected in the lab

Jan 14, 2018

Genomes of single microbial cells isolated from the Red Sea could yield a goldmine for biotechnology.

Making waves for ultrahigh definition displays

Jan 14, 2018

Wavy transistors that vertically gain width without increasing their on-chip footprint could drive future flexible displays.

Under pressure—modeling human-induced earthquakes

Jan 14, 2018

A model incorporating the physics of ruptures provides valuable information about human-induced earthquakes.

A burning ambition for clean fuel

Jan 10, 2018

The transition to renewables will take decades, so we must rush to clean up conventional fuel combustion, says Mani Sarathy.

Trawl of Red Sea surface waters finds little plastic

Jan 7, 2018

The Red Sea has relatively low amounts of floating plastic debris in its surface waters due to fewer sources or faster removal.

Putting some skin in the turbulence game

Jan 7, 2018

Theoretical simulations reveal how subtle changes in friction on an object’s surface can have a large effect on drag.

Modeling where the wind blows

Jan 7, 2018

A new statistical technique could be used to more accurately locate global wind resources.

Something in the air

Jan 1, 2018

Synchrotron study reveals oxygen’s influence on the chemistry that surrounds us.

One bad apple can spoil a robot swarm

Jan 1, 2018

Coordinated robot swarms can achieve amazing feats, but even a single faulty unit can have serious consequences.

Ancient jumping genes may give corals a new lease on life

Dec 24, 2017

Jumping genes could make an alga, and its coral host, more tolerant to warming sea temperatures.

Carving out circuits that click into place

Dec 24, 2017

An easy and reliable assembly approach, inspired by building blocks, challenges the current fabrication of electronic systems.

Fish’s rapid response to climate change

Dec 18, 2017

Some species of fish have special adaptive mechanisms that could improve their chances of surviving the greenhouse effect.

The universal truth about sticky surfaces

Dec 17, 2017

Trapping molecules on custom-designed porous surfaces becomes easier with a new model that unifies previous theories of adsorption.

A green separation for industry

Dec 17, 2017

Tailor-made membranes offer a cleaner method for the industrial-scale separation of chemical mixtures, says Suzana Nunes. But first we need to make their manufacture greener.

Giant air pockets win the drag race

Dec 17, 2017

Creating teardrop-like gas cavities around metal spheres enables practically friction-free travel through liquids.

Wet plasma makes a nano-sized splash

Dec 10, 2017

Silicon microelectronics and biomedical fields could benefit from a safe and cost-effective way to synthesize nanoparticles.

Unleashing ultraviolet brings visible improvement

Dec 10, 2017

High-speed communication systems based on ultraviolet radiation are now in sight.

Transforming how we think about soils—from the ground up

Dec 3, 2017

A new soil classification system, and tools to implement it, helps understanding of the properties of the ground underpinning geo-engineering projects.

Clear leads to fully transparent devices

Dec 3, 2017

Large-area, two-dimensional semiconductors wired through transparent oxide conductors produce high-performance see-through electronics.

Igniting future fuel research

Nov 26, 2017

Simple two-component mixtures are good surrogates for studying the ignition properties of next-generation gasolines.

Tiny speakers break a barrier for sound

Nov 26, 2017

A loudspeaker design could allow small devices to produce powerful low-frequency sounds.

Separation a sweet success

Nov 19, 2017

Cone-shaped sugar structures can be connected together to form selectively porous nanofiltration membranes.

Physics forecasts for fracking and fuels

Nov 19, 2017

Physicists are playing unexpected roles in meeting future global energy challenges by modeling technologies such as fracking.

Diagnosing the impacts of health policy

Nov 19, 2017

Study design allows more rigorous evaluation of complex healthcare interventions.

Semiconductors with an aligned interface

Nov 12, 2017

Efficiency gains come from tuning the properties of semiconducting materials by combining layers of different composition.

Sunny solution for killing E. coli

Nov 12, 2017

Treating wastewater with solar irradiation shows promise in reducing two E. coli strains but a resilient strain persists.

A simple soak for a solar tune-up

Nov 12, 2017

A mild post-fabrication doping approach can boost the solar conversion of quantum dot-based photovoltaic cells.

Simple statistics can be good enough

Nov 5, 2017

Study of the mismatch between spatial environmental data and a commonly used statistical analysis suggests simpler statistics are sufficient in many cases.

Simple green synthesis is a breath of fresh air

Nov 5, 2017

A method for creating nanoparticles without using solvents could lead to environmentally friendly electronics.

Briny pool bacteria can clean up and power up

Nov 5, 2017

Promising electrochemical technologies for cleaning wastewater are boosted by discovery of extremophilic microbes in the Red Sea.

Cutting datasets down to size

Oct 29, 2017

A powerful statistical tool could significantly reduce the burden of analyzing very large datasets.

Red Sea is warming faster than global average

Oct 29, 2017

The world’s warmest sea is heating up faster than the global average, which could challenge the ability of the Red Sea’s organisms to cope.

Flexible batteries a highlight for smart dental aids

Oct 25, 2017

Redesigned lithium-ion batteries could help improve the efficiency of orthodontic devices.

Streamlining space structures

Oct 22, 2017

A new computational framework marries ideas from computer graphics with civil engineering to reduce times and costs of constructing frame-based structures.

Knowledge of larval fish just a drop in the ocean

Oct 22, 2017

A combination of morphological and molecular approaches gives researchers a first glimpse of Red Sea larval fish communities.

Think laterally to sidestep production problems 

Oct 15, 2017

The side-by-side deposition of atomically flat semiconductor sheets enhances solar cell conversion efficiency.

A kite that might fly 

Oct 15, 2017

Wind turbines suspended high in the sky have potential as an alternative power source for Saudi Arabia.

Ocean atmosphere rife with microbes

Oct 15, 2017

Microbes are dispersed widely over the oceans with islands acting as stepping-stones to help transport of land-based organisms.

Missing atoms in a forgotten crystal bring luminescence

Oct 8, 2017

A perovskite crystal’s powerful light-emitting capabilities could be due to missing atoms in its structure.

Dataset size counts for better predictions 

Oct 8, 2017

A statistical technique for modeling large datasets improves interpretation of climate and environmental data.

Giant bacteria make algae easy to stomach

Oct 8, 2017

Symbiotic giant bacteria enable Red Sea surgeonfish to specialize their diets.

Good vibrations for the future of computing

Oct 1, 2017

A vibration-driven logic gate could form the basis for the next generation of efficient, low-power computers.

A radical solution comes from mixing tools

Oct 1, 2017

The molten surface of a sodium-based material could assist the direct conversion of methane to useful building blocks.

Red Sea gene pool follows water flow

Oct 1, 2017

Satellite imagery shows how currents shape the Red Sea ecosystem.

A little tension yields enormous solar crystals

Sep 25, 2017

New evidence of surface-initiated crystallization may improve the efficiency of printable photovoltaic materials.

Bringing signals into phase

Sep 25, 2017

A novel type of electronic component made from a blend of polymer materials could enable more effective circuitry.

The sky’s the limit for Earth observation

Sep 17, 2017

Emerging technologies are poised to transform how we observe the Earth.

Fueling a cleaner combustion

Sep 17, 2017

Insight into the thermal decomposition of a potential fuel additive shows it could promote cleaner and more efficient combustion.

A simple additive to improve film quality

Sep 17, 2017

Simple chemicals called glycol ethers help make better perovskite thin films for solar cells.

No strings attached for underwater video system

Sep 14, 2017

An underwater wireless optical communications system for streaming high-quality, live video.

Visualization helps science to see the unexpected

Sep 10, 2017

Advances in how science is presented means that visual tools can inspire research, as well as make its results accessible to the world.

Gazing into the flames of ionic winds

Sep 10, 2017

New 3D visualizations that reveal how flames respond to electric fields could help improve combustion efficiency and reduce pollution.

Letting the data speak for itself

Sep 3, 2017

A new statistical approach for environmental measurements lets the data determine how to model extreme events.

Looking both ways for new-style semiconductors

Sep 3, 2017

Introducing asymmetry across the two sides of atomically thin materials brings new opportunities in semiconductors.

Can coral reefs change with the times?

Sep 1, 2017

Coral ecosystems may be able to adapt rapidly to climate change through natural plastic responses.

Helping corals to cope with pressure

Aug 27, 2017

When faced with high salinity, the tiny plant cells within coral tissue alter their metabolites to better cope with stress.

Dark materials squeeze green fuel from sunlight

Aug 27, 2017

Metallic nanostructures that slow down light dramatically can triple the efficiency of solar-based hydrogen fuel generation.

Shape-shifters soak up sunshine

Aug 27, 2017

Photosensitive perovskites change shape when exposed to light.

Blink and you'll miss it

Aug 20, 2017

A faster approach for computer detection of moving objects in video takes us a step closer to mimicking the reflexive detection ability of the animal visual system.

3D particle tracking? There's an app for that

Aug 20, 2017

Smartphones put state-of-the-art 3D particle tracking in the hands of the masses.

Fewer defects from a 2D approach

Aug 13, 2017

Flatter materials have fewer imperfections, which makes for better solar cells and light sensors.

Vapor harvesting gets the edge

Aug 13, 2017

Surface wettability has little effect on atmospheric water gathering, but edge structure is crucial.

MOF keeps humidity in the Goldilocks zone

Aug 6, 2017

Dual-functioning MOF material autonomously ensures indoor humidity is just right.

The awesome scope of big data

Aug 6, 2017

Sifting through huge amounts of data may bring better understanding of whale shark social structures, protein targets for drug therapies and disease-causing genes.

Herbal medicine shows potential to treat cancer 

Aug 6, 2017

Herbal remedy plants native to Saudi Arabia are shown to have potential as treatments for cancer.

More rain for the Red Sea if El Niño breezes in

Jul 30, 2017

Modeling leads to a better understanding of the role El Niño plays in increasing rainfall along the coast of the Red Sea.

Nature provides a key to repelling liquids

Jul 29, 2017

A nature-based technique paves the way for cheaper and environmentally friendly liquid-repellent materials.

Smart sensors could save lives

Jul 22, 2017

3D-printed, disposable sensors capable of detecting noxious gases and changes in temperature and humidity could revolutionize environmental monitoring.

Shaping up against pathogens

Jul 22, 2017

Plants can reprogram their genetic material to mount a defensive response against pathogens, which may have applications for agriculture.

A firefly's flash inspires new nanolaser light

Jul 15, 2017

Synchronized emissions from innovative on-chip lasers create possibilities for inexpensive artificial neural networks. 

A blue carbon future

Jul 15, 2017

Mangroves, seagrass meadows, seaweeds and saltmarshes, the forests of the sea, perform a vital and often overlooked role in storing carbon and mitigating the effects of climate change.

Going to extremes to predict natural disasters

Jul 8, 2017

A systematic approach to selecting and configuring statistical models improves predictions of extreme events.

Nanoparticles take a bite out of infections

Jul 8, 2017

Spiky-shaped additives help antimicrobial coatings sense and inhibit bacteria growth on dental devices. 

Keeping the heat out

Jul 1, 2017

Insights into the thermal behavior of metal-nitride nanowires could open new avenues in optical electronics.

Marine reserves offer protection

Jul 1, 2017

Protection zones for coasts and oceans are an effective way to help marine and human communities to adapt to climate change.

Splitting water for the cost of a nickel

Jun 24, 2017

A simple treatment of nickel to make it an efficient catalyst for water splitting.

Mushroom-like corals get their genomes mapped

Jun 24, 2017

The genome sequences of two "false" corals offer a window into the evolution of calcification, which may help their reef-building cousins.

Using sunlight to the max

Jun 17, 2017

A floating membrane that uses sunlight to evaporate water shows potential for water purification.

Winds and waves winding down

Jun 17, 2017

Wind intensities and wave heights in the Red Sea are decreasing over time—potential for a significant impact on its ecosystem.

Short regulatory gene spotted

Jun 10, 2017

Two proteins produced by a single gene interact to keep the genome in check.

A changing climate affects plankton populations

Jun 10, 2017

Data from a global oceanographic expedition predict how rising temperatures influence increase in plankton populations.

The hidden order in DNA diffusion

Jun 6, 2017

The movement of DNA molecules seemingly explained by random motion conceals a more orderly march.

Keeping the hydrogen coming

Jun 5, 2017

A coating of molybdenum improves the efficiency of catalysts for producing hydrogen.

Fixing the role of nitrogen in coral bleaching

Jun 3, 2017

A unique investigation highlights how excess nitrogen can trigger coral bleaching in the absence of heat stress.

Engines fire without smoke

May 27, 2017

Car manufacturers could clean up vehicle exhausts using a new model of gasoline combustion developed using experimental data.

A bright future for sustainable agriculture

May 27, 2017

Passionate plant scientist Mark Tester conducts ground-breaking research into plants that could one day help feed the world.

Catalytic teamwork transforms propane

May 20, 2017

Tungsten and titanium compounds join forces to turn a common alkane into other hydrocarbons. 

An inflammatory inference

May 20, 2017

The surface proteins responsible for navigating immune cells to sites of inflammation are identified.

MOFs provide a better way to remove water from gas

May 17, 2017

A breakthrough in generating water-stable metal-organic frameworks allows efficient removal of water from gases.

The brighter side of twisted polymers

May 15, 2017

Conjugated polymers designed with a twist produce tiny, brightly fluorescent particles with broad applications.

Conservation in the smartphone generation

May 13, 2017

A remarkable collaboration, drawing parallels between human and animal ecology, uses data from smartphones to protect vulnerable species.

Interdisciplinarity helps unravel the protein puzzle

May 6, 2017

The work of a small group specializing in demystifying proteins is having far-reaching effects.

The crest of waveforms for next-gen radar

May 6, 2017

A new method for shaping the waveform generated by multi-antenna radar systems is inexpensive and practical.

Potential for Saudi Arabian coral reefs to shine

Apr 29, 2017

Careful marine management and stricter fishing laws could enable Saudi Arabia’s coral reefs to thrive.

Algorithm scours datasets to diagnose medical mysteries

Apr 29, 2017

A new tool uses genetic and clinical information to find the root cause of unexplained illnesses.

Deep thinking brings underwater robot to life

Apr 24, 2017

An international, multidisciplinary collaboration that led to the world’s first underwater robotic avatar.

Augmented reality at your fingertips

Apr 24, 2017

A flexible, carbon-based device that responds to humidity in two ways can sense 3D objects without touching them.

Plastic pollution reaches the final frontier

Apr 18, 2017

Atlantic surface circulation transports high loads of plastic debris to remote Arctic waters.

Smart healthcare uses stats to spot a stumble

Apr 15, 2017

Statistical monitoring technology can detect serious falls and immediately warn healthcare providers.

Tweaking the transcriptome to tackle stress

Apr 15, 2017

Stressed dinoflagellates rewrite their genes during transcription.

Setting regenerable polymer traps

Apr 15, 2017

Stable and recyclable materials synthesized using intrinsically porous polymers selectively retain CO₂ from exhaust emissions and natural gas.

Feeling the heat in cells

Apr 8, 2017

New nano-sized sensors provide unprecedented data on how heat diffuses in and out of living cells.

New energies in gas sensing

Apr 8, 2017

An ultrathin semiconducting sheet showing gas-responsive electronic properties may lead to highly sensitive gas sensors. 

Glowing report on plant hormone function

Apr 8, 2017

A biological sensor can identify and quantify the activity of a little-known class of plant hormones, strigolactones.

Making use of flat surfaces for catalysis

Apr 1, 2017

Using a plasma to alter the atomic composition of two-dimensional materials could make them better catalysts.

The carpenter enzyme gives DNA the snip

Apr 1, 2017

Enzyme follows a two-step verification system before cutting and repairing DNA damage.

Gold standards for nanoparticles

Mar 26, 2017

Understanding how small organic ions stabilize gold nanoparticles may allow for better control.

Information storage with a nanoscale twist

Mar 25, 2017

Discovery of a novel rotational force inside magnetic vortices makes it easier to design ultrahigh capacity disk drives. 

Sharing expert experimental knowledge to expedite design

Mar 25, 2017

A repository of metabolic information provides a quick reference tool for designing useful synthetic biological systems.

Getting a visual on complex data

Mar 18, 2017

A new method for visually presenting complex data distributions provides a much-needed tool for management, analysis and interpretation.

Stretching toward energy efficiency

Mar 18, 2017

Deformable thermoelectric materials add a new twist to the design of energy-scavenging devices.

Seeking adaptation for corals in times of stress

Mar 18, 2017

The Red Sea provides opportunities to coral bleaching and inform future practices to help safeguard the world’s coral reef ecosystems.

Warming to a new direction for perovskites

Mar 11, 2017

Controlling the orientation of hybrid perovskite crystals offers large-scale structural purity and new properties.

Levitation trick gives drag the slip

Mar 11, 2017

Plunging hot spheres into viscous liquids reveals a way to reduce fluid resistance without complex engineering procedures.

A simple nose for noxious gases

Mar 4, 2017

Tunable porous MOF materials interface with electrodes to sound the alarm at the first sniff of hydrogen sulfide. 

Improving connections for spatial analysis

Mar 4, 2017

A statistical model that accounts for common dependencies in spatial data yields more realistic results for studies of temperature, wind and pollution levels. 

Signaling success for 5^th gen communications

Mar 4, 2017

An efficient wireless signal optimization scheme achieves peak performance for next-generation mobile communications.

Coffee-ring effect leads to crystallization control in semiconductors

Mar 2, 2017

Varying the thickness of crystallizing materials facilitates control over the patterns and properties of crystals.

A safe sweep of weather data

Feb 25, 2017

A statistical technique for automatically cleaning erroneous data from weather-balloon observations will improve the accuracy of weather forecasting.

Blind matchmaking for more efficient wireless networks

Feb 25, 2017

Autonomously pairing network users could expand the capability of the next generation of wireless networks

First detection of an artemisinin-resistant malaria parasite contracted in Africa

Feb 21, 2017

Africa now joins Southeast Asia in hosting parasites partially resistant to the first-line antimalaria drug, artemisinin.

High-sensitivity cameras reveal the atomic structure of metal-organic frameworks

Feb 19, 2017

Highly sensitive electron cameras allow researchers to see the atomic structure of metal-organic frameworks.

Valley polarization gets a magnetic boost

Feb 18, 2017

Access to valley-polarized charge carriers by magnetic doping could transform electronics.

Gene sequences reveal secrets of symbiosis

Feb 18, 2017

Genome sequences of dinoflagellate algae indicate how they maintain their symbiotic relationship with corals.

Up in the air over Arabia

Feb 18, 2017

Studying dusty air, especially in the Middle East, which is part of the Earth’s notorious dust belt, has both local and global significance.

Tracking superbugs for antibiotic resistance

Feb 11, 2017

An antibiotic resistant strain of bacteria found circulating in Jeddah’s municipal wastewater could have severe implications for public health.

Better biosensors on edge

Feb 11, 2017

Inscribing porous, carbonized patterns into a polymer creates sensitive electrodes that detect biological molecules.

A warm relationship between corals and bacteria

Feb 9, 2017

The close association between corals and bacteria may help protect coral from heat stress and bleaching.

Quinoa—quest to feed the world

Feb 7, 2017

The high-quality sequencing of a quinoa genome brings new potential for global food security.

Giving power to demand-driven electricity 

Feb 4, 2017

A new approach to analyzing household electricity: smart-meter data could improve the performance and efficiency of national power grids. 

Anderson's model holds for 2D materials

Feb 4, 2017

A simple model is shown to accurately predict the electronic properties of a combination of 2D semiconductors.

Keeping antennas at peak performance

Jan 28, 2017

Sensitive detection of partial faults in antenna systems could prevent performance degradation in wireless networks.

A new path to fixing genes in living organisms

Jan 28, 2017

A gene-editing method shows promise for using targeted gene-replacement therapy in living organisms.

The tipping point for marine agriculture

Jan 22, 2017

“Historians will look back on this era as the tipping point for marine agriculture,” said Carlos Duarte. 

Extracting more from wastewater

Jan 21, 2017

A material made by combining a metal and a polymer can help generate hydrogen and fresh water from wastewater.

Catalysis with a light touch

Jan 21, 2017

Pairing two catalysts in a single, illuminated reaction flask proves to be a light-bulb moment for organic synthesis.

The power of attraction

Jan 14, 2017

Hybrid organic-inorganic materials can self-assemble into tiny doughnut-like structures.

The intersection of folding and function

Jan 14, 2017

The dynamic three-dimensional organization of chromosomal structure can profoundly influence plant gene expression.

Taking graphics cards beyond gaming

Jan 9, 2017

A highly efficient mathematical solver designed to run on graphics processors gives scientists and engineers a powerful new tool for a common computational problem. 

An ordered route to improved performance

Jan 7, 2017

Reliable processing of an efficient solar cell material depends on how the solvent is removed.

Rolling out an e-sticker revolution

Jan 2, 2017

High-speed fabrication developed at KAUST can turn out adhesive and flexible electronic devices in any shape imaginable.

Divide and conquer pattern searching

Dec 27, 2016

A new data-mining strategy that offers unprecedented pattern search speed could glean new insights from massive datasets.

Closer ties for silver clusters

Dec 18, 2016

Surrounding silver nanoclusters with hydrogen-rich shells offers new opportunities in catalysis and opto-electronics.

Clownfish adapt for population survival

Dec 17, 2016

Identification of candidate pathways in clownfish shows they can control responses to population alterations.

Assessing Red Sea potential for alternative energy

Dec 11, 2016

Advanced numerical models are helping researchers identify potential sites to exploit offshore wind and wave energy in the Red Sea region.

Thinking outside nanocluster's box

Dec 11, 2016

Research at KAUST finds that silver atoms can be crafted into a box-shaped nanocluster by careful selection of ligand molecules.

The promise of greener power generation

Dec 3, 2016

The characterization of compounds produced in combustion could lead to cleaner, more efficient power stations.

Reconstructing the Red Sea's climate patterns

Dec 3, 2016

An advanced numerical model is helping researchers better understand the variability of the Red Sea’s climate patterns.

The race for more efficient engines

Nov 26, 2016

New technique lays the foundation for greener transport fuels and next-generation engines.    

Getting the jump on industrial failures

Nov 26, 2016

A statistics-driven method for the early detection of emerging problems in industrial processes could improve industrial safety, reliability and productivity.

Delivering a power punch

Nov 19, 2016

Microscale energy storage units for wearable and miniaturized electronic devices are improved using porous materials.

Color-changing coatings ready for the big time

Nov 19, 2016

Wafer-thin, scratch-proof films can generate a rainbow of colors using random metallic nanostructures.

Exploring how rice could survive salt stress

Nov 16, 2016

Real-time genetic detailing of rice plants highlights the roles of different loci in response to salt stress during growth.

An international language for solar energy fields

Nov 12, 2016

Standardized reporting of energy conversion efficiency could help to develop photocatalysts to produce renewable fuels.

Driven to diffraction

Nov 9, 2016

Optical elements that diffract light could lead to smaller and more powerful cameras.

Keeping pollution under control

Nov 5, 2016

Sophisticated statistical methods can detect ozone pollution hot spots and monitor instrument failure.

A blossoming field of precision agriculture

Nov 5, 2016

KAUST researchers are working to find new ways of monitoring irrigation, crop health and yields.

Snapshots help nanomaterials harvest light

Oct 29, 2016

Fleeting bursts of light and electrons reveal traps that hamper solar cells and sensors.

Solid progress in carbon capture

Oct 22, 2016

New heights reached for solids that capture carbon dioxide at low concentrations in gas mixtures.

Mechanism for sodium storage in 2D material

Oct 22, 2016

Tin selenide is an effective host for storing sodium ions, making it a promising material for sodium ion batteries.

Pure clear polymers

Oct 15, 2016

A clean, green, metal-free approach to making high-performance polycarbonates.

A modern way to heal old wounds

Oct 15, 2016

Smart bandage technology provides instant updates on the condition of chronic wounds through a mobile phone app.

Shape detection at fault

Oct 8, 2016

Software that automatically recognizes surfaces within complex three-dimensional images can benefit petroleum extraction.

Helping computers to see who we really are

Oct 8, 2016

Algorithms that train computers to automatically detect human activity in videos can improve online searches and real-world surveillance systems.

Against the flow of drug resistance

Oct 1, 2016

Certain bacteria-based water treatment systems may help prevent the spread of antibiotic resistance.

Fiery explosions of hot metal on water

Oct 1, 2016

Images of from a high-speed camera reveal a microbead formation process during the vapor explosion of liquid metal dropping into a pool of water.

The first genome of a coral reef fish

Sep 24, 2016

A genome for the blacktail butterflyfish may illustrate how reef fish adapt to challenging conditions in the Red Sea.

Tunable sound transmission shapes up

Sep 24, 2016

Carefully designed crystal structures can now be tuned to control how they transmit acoustic waves.

Gentle sensors for diagnosing brain disorders

Sep 24, 2016

New sensor design paves the way for safer and more effective brain monitoring.

Leukemia treatment offers hope

Sep 17, 2016

Antibodies directed against cancer stem cells could help patients with acute myeloid leukemia.

Self-assembled nanostructures hit their target

Sep 17, 2016

A biocompatible nanomaterial that can be controlled with light finds a use in gene delivery.

The significance of seaweed

Sep 12, 2016

Carbon storage by coastal macro algae is a significant but neglected aspect of the global carbon budget.

Red skies and rifting processes

Sep 10, 2016

Satellite radar image analysis reveals that rifting in Iceland exhibits simultaneous horizontal and sideways movement.

Barley that thrives in salty soils

Sep 3, 2016

Mapping the genetics underlying barley yields helps pinpoint mutations responsible for increasing the crop’s salt tolerance.

Filling in the blanks of virtual cities

Aug 27, 2016

New software generates three-dimensional models of buildings, with applications for disaster relief support.

Building blocks for methane gas storage

Aug 27, 2016

Tweaking the structure of metal-organic frameworks could transform the capacity to use methane as a fuel.

A good idea bubbles to the surface

Aug 27, 2016

Imploding bubbles improve the growth of single-crystalline perovskite solar cell thin films.

Modeling dust flow from Africa to Arabia

Aug 20, 2016

High-resolution modeling improves understanding of dust flow from Africa across the Red Sea toward the Arabian peninsula.

Crafting technology from nature's darkest secrets

Aug 20, 2016

Exploiting the properties of disordered chaotic systems leads to low-cost energy harvesting and innovative micro-surgery applications.

Surface fractures as magma moves

Aug 20, 2016

Surface deformation caused by magma rising within the crust may in turn have prevented a volcanic eruption in Saudi Arabia.

Step into the white light for faster communication

Aug 13, 2016

Nanocrystals that generate white light could help combine lighting and communications systems into one.

Enhancing understanding of genetic regulation

Aug 13, 2016

Researchers round up clues to track down enhancers.

See-through circuitry

Aug 13, 2016

Atom-by-atom deposition leads to low-cost, high-performance transparent electronic materials.

Technology search for relationships

Aug 6, 2016

A sketch-based query for searching for relationships among objects in images could enhance the power and utility of image search tools. 

How tiny imperfections impede performance

Aug 6, 2016

Understanding the impact of surface defects underpins improved efficiency of hybrid organic/inorganic solar cells. 

Catalysis steps into the third dimension

Aug 6, 2016

Nonsurfactant polymers template produces a highly porous, three-dimensional inorganic crystal to enhance catalysis and separation.

Rhythm adjustment for CO₂ rise

Aug 1, 2016

Evolutionary alterations to circadian rhythm genes help reef fish adapt to the higher levels of carbon dioxide of future oceans.

Seismic echo turns into super-resolution images

Jul 30, 2016

A signal processing technique that makes use of seismic echoes is able to image subsurface geology at unprecedented resolution.

The bioprospects of mangrove roots

Jul 30, 2016

Researchers uncover a potential treasure trove of microbes living with mangroves.

Memory device sees the light

Jul 23, 2016

Ferroelectric tunnel junction promises low-power, high-density data storage.

Making space for climate simulations

Jul 23, 2016

A statistics-based data compression scheme cuts data storage requirements for large-scale climate simulations by as much as 98 percent.

Exploring artificial biosynthesis

Jul 16, 2016

Metabolic route explorer helps to optimize the pathways for artificial biosynthesis of valuable products.

Whale shark populations are young and transient

Jul 16, 2016

A population study of whale sharks in the Red Sea reveals unique group dynamics.

Electric fields tame the flame

Jul 9, 2016

A clearer understanding of how flame is affected by electric fields paves the way for advanced electrically assisted combustion technology.

A golden replacement

Jul 9, 2016

Altering a single atom in a silver nanocluster considerably changes its properties, creating an exciting opportunity to design these clusters.

Tweaking the perfect recipe

Jul 9, 2016

Adjusting the cooking time is all it takes to tune the magnetic properties of these multi-functional iron nanowires. 

A clean separation

Jul 7, 2016

The efficient purification of propylene using a fine-tuned porous material delivers advances in petrochemical production.

Faster prediction of wireless downtime

Jul 2, 2016

An efficient simulation scheme that hones in on the rarest elements in a dataset can help predict capacity exceedances in wireless networks.

Nanoscale patterning is better with gas

Jul 2, 2016

Adding a gas enhances the processing of hybrid organic-inorganic materials for improved solar cells.

Exploring protein form to find function

Jun 25, 2016

 Existing systems for predicting protein structure are outperformed by a newly developed method.

Focus on acoustic lenses

Jun 25, 2016

Carefully-designed meta-surfaces are used to build acoustic lenses that can transmit highly focused sound waves.

Utilizing a broader share of the solar spectrum

Jun 25, 2016

Graphene quantum dots can improve the efficiency of silicon solar cells.

Getting a handle on extremes

Jun 18, 2016

A statistical model that accurately describes rainfall at both extremes opens the way for more reliable predictions of flood and drought risk.

Saving precious water with nanoscale ingenuity

Jun 18, 2016

Biology has inspired new ways to harvest and collect water.

Copolymer membranes toughened up

Jun 11, 2016

Innovative chemistry has produced synthetic membranes with improved properties for industry, research and biomedicine.

Partnering for sustainable fresh water production

Jun 6, 2016

Combining methods for water desalination results in low-cost, highly efficient water production.

Sharing movement aids learning

Jun 4, 2016

Automated learning of an individual’s movement patterns shared over mobile and social networks could help us to connect better.

Here's a tip for better stability

May 31, 2016

A new understanding of why tungsten-doped thin films degrade so rapidly in air may lead to better designs for semiconductor technologies.

A deadly delivery for breast cancer

May 28, 2016

Zinc oxide (ZnO) nanoparticles may help destroy difficult-to-treat triple-negative breast cancer tumors.

Threading the way to touch-sensitive robots

May 21, 2016

Smart threads can be woven into pressure-sensitive electronic skin for robots or medical prosthetics.

Ultrafast charge separation

May 21, 2016

Understanding the dynamics of electrons in polymers will enable more efficient solar cells.

Hydrocarbons from the sky

May 17, 2016

Ocean cruise studies input of PAHs from the atmosphere into the ocean.

Antivirals waiting to be discovered in coral reefs

May 14, 2016

The Red Sea may be a treasure chest of potential new drugs.

From head to tail in search of piRNAs

May 14, 2016

Small non-coding RNAs thought to be found in testes are also present in the adult mouse brain.

The heat is on for thermoelectric power

May 7, 2016

Layered MXene semiconductors enable efficient thermoelectric power generators. 

The switchable switch

May 7, 2016

 A novel logic gate allows for added electronic functionality.

A clearer view of rainfall patterns

Apr 30, 2016

Improved random modeling allows scientists to generate realistic patterns of high-frequency rainfall.

Sneaky losses solved for resistive memory

Apr 30, 2016

A data readout scheme achieves an unprecedented reduction in power consumption for a promising high-performance resistive memory architecture. 

Graphene powers up water purification

Apr 30, 2016

Self-cleaning graphene-coated membranes remove water pollutants while harvesting energy from microbial decomposition.

A terminator for truncated transcripts

Apr 23, 2016

A gene linked to plant stress response helps to prevent the production of defective proteins.

Branching out for the right fuels

Apr 23, 2016

Metal-organic frameworks are effective in separating linear from branched paraffins.

Feeding in the moonlight

Apr 16, 2016

Consistent around the world's ocean, the phases of the moon affect the upward migration of the world’s most abundant type of fish for feeding.

A picture of the artist captured in a stroke

Apr 16, 2016

A graphics technique is the first to identify people based on their sketching style.

Timing is everything

Apr 16, 2016

A better understanding of fuel ignition processes in internal combustion engines could help break new barriers in fuel efficiency and emission reductions.

Taking the heat out of emitters

Apr 9, 2016

Semiconductor light-emitting diodes fabricated on a metal substrate are less prone to overheating.

Sensing the pressure

Apr 9, 2016

Thin flakes of silver make robust and flexible electrodes for pressure sensors.

Defying symmetry for better synthesis

Apr 2, 2016

Insight into the role of sulfur-bearing ligands provides a better handle on ways to synthesize asymmetric metal nanoparticles.

Less is more when it comes to soot

Mar 26, 2016

A complex computational model provides a more accurate description of soot formation.

Simulations blow wind tunnel tests away

Mar 26, 2016

A simulation scheme for aerodynamic turbulence could replace expensive wind tunnel tests.

Photodetectors gain a super-sized advantage

Mar 19, 2016

Integrating large-area perovskite crystals into simple circuitry leads to optical sensors with high bandwidth and sensitivity. 

Catching more of the sun

Mar 19, 2016

Combining quantum dots and organic molecules can enable solar cells to capture more of the sun’s light.

Making a splash

Mar 12, 2016

Ultrafast imaging reveals the influence of even ultrasmall surface roughness on inkjet printing.

Good vibrations for organic semiconductors 

Mar 12, 2016

Infrared pulse sets molecules vibrating, freeing trapped charges and boosting current.

An easier path to treating malaria

Mar 5, 2016

Bringing three powerful chemical groups together offers new possibilities in drug development.

An ocean observatory for the Red Sea

Feb 27, 2016

Studies conducted at the Saudi Aramco-KAUST Marine Environmental Research Center provide new insights into the physical and biological aspects of the Red Sea.

Shaping rate rules to fuel the future

Feb 27, 2016

Precise rate constants could provide high-fidelity combustion models for cleaner and more efficient fuels.

Noisy cells produce bursts of protein

Feb 20, 2016

A new mathematical model explains how random factors affect the production of proteins within the cells.

Coastal creep by Red Sea mangroves

Feb 20, 2016

Satellite imagery shows that the Red Sea’s mangrove forests have increased, not decreased, over the last 40 or so years.

Artificial skin sensors made from sticky notes

Feb 18, 2016

A paper-based sensor that mimics the sensory functions of human skin has been developed for the first time from low-cost and commonly available household materials.

Pathogen expertise boosted with latest genomics

Feb 13, 2016

Expert knowledge in the field of DNA and RNA sequencing puts KAUST at the forefront of high-impact pathogen research.

Designing the perfect surface catalyst

Feb 13, 2016

Learning how an aluminum compound binds to silica may pave the way to a reliable petrochemical catalyst.

Wireless devices tune-in to cloud power

Feb 6, 2016

Next-generation mobile networks can use cloud computing algorithms to manage the increasingly high data demands of users.

Bringing computational engineering into the fold

Jan 30, 2016

An interactive computational tool opens new possibilities for "developable" surfaces.

Ready for the high seas?

Jan 30, 2016

Seagrass genome reveals the structural and physiological adaptations needed for plants to survive and thrive in the marine environment.

New lessons for an old magnet

Jan 23, 2016

The surface structure of magnetite is crucial to its performance in magnetism-based electronic applications.

Clear detection of ultraviolet light

Jan 16, 2016

Transparent crystals that grow from heated solutions offer an improved material for detecting ultraviolet light.

Aesthetic patterns for freeform architecture 

Jan 9, 2016

Planar designs are used to model complex curved surfaces, with applications from architecture to 3D prints.

Reality check for Red Sea wave predictions

Jan 2, 2016

Current models that predict ocean surface conditions overestimate wave patterns in the middle of the Red Sea.

Graphene oxide sifts out CO₂

Jan 2, 2016

Graphene oxide combined with a polymer membrane creates a barrier that is selectively permeable to carbon dioxide.

Nano-Lego for clean energy

Dec 26, 2015

Novel solid-state materials may hold the key to cleaner fuels and cheap, efficient gas storage.

The brain gamers

Dec 19, 2015

Novel use of gaming technology enables researchers to 'step inside' the brain.

Catching a glimpse of the double helix

Dec 19, 2015

Direct imaging of a single DNA molecule provides insights into fundamental biological processes.

Faster, finer filtration

Dec 12, 2015

The right blend of polymers enables rapid and molecule-selective filtering of tiny particles from water.

A smoother route to smart sensors

Dec 12, 2015

Growing high-quality films of hybrid perovskite materials takes solution-processed phototransistors to new levels of performance.

Know your blends

Dec 5, 2015

Experimental and numerical studies reveal the combustion properties of blended fuels at elevated pressures.

Dust shifts and strengthens tropical rain belt

Dec 5, 2015

Dust plays a critical role in determining rainfall over the Middle East and North Africa.

Effect of dust on the Red Sea

Nov 28, 2015

Ship-based studies of dust levels above the Red Sea reveal significant variations and confirm the reliability of satellite monitoring.

An antenna that goes the distance

Nov 21, 2015

A low-cost, copper-based flexible and stretchable antenna improves far-field data communication in wearable electronics.

Closing in on semiconductor band gaps

Nov 21, 2015

Atomically thin heterogeneous semiconductors with tunable electronic properties pave the way for next-generation two-dimensional devices.

Miniature flexible sensor to detect heart disease

Nov 14, 2015

A new biosensor made of laser-etched electrodes on a gold-coated polymer may provide an effective and cost-efficient way to assess heart disease risk.

Microscope tracks carriers in space and time

Nov 14, 2015

An electron microscope fitted with a femtosecond laser visualizes the dynamics of excited carriers on the surface of a material in real space and time.

Emulsions reveal their family secrets

Nov 14, 2015

Capturing the hidden details of coalescence cascades that connect bubbles and droplets may improve oil extraction practices. 

Molecular immunity from microbes

Nov 10, 2015

Harnessing a bacterial system of defense can protect plants against viral pathogens.

Dusty days over Arabia

Nov 7, 2015

Modelling reveals how atmospheric dust influences daytime patterns of energy transfer from sunlight.

Burning a better biofuel

Nov 7, 2015

Chemical reaction modeling and combustion experiments reveal how 2-methylbutanol would behave in advanced engines.

Smart technology shows where we're at

Nov 7, 2015

A combination of state-of-the-art sensors and standardized data analysis will transform research for tracking animals and humans.

A knock-out engine performance

Oct 31, 2015

Environmentally friendly butanol additives improve gasoline performance in spark ignition engines.

The darkest black

Oct 31, 2015

Metallic nanostructures absorb light better than any other known structures.

Sensors for a light touch

Oct 31, 2015

Biocompatible tactile sensors based on magnetic hair-like structures enable new applications for touch sensors.

Silver nanoparticles' gold luster

Oct 24, 2015

An atomically precise investigation reveals close similarities between silver and gold nanoparticles.

A greener approach to a green solution

Oct 24, 2015

A solvent-free technique for creating adsorbent materials could reduce carbon dioxide emissions.

A new take on old materials

Oct 17, 2015

A mineral used in electrochemical devices that was thought to be a semiconductor is now identified as a metal.

Tiny drops pack an unexpected punch

Oct 17, 2015

Ultrafast cameras spy surprising air-trapping effects intrinsic to droplet-based technologies such as inkjet printing.

When icy surfaces aren't a drag

Oct 10, 2015

High-speed imaging of perfect ice spheres free-falling in water reveals surprising insights into drag reduction.

Brain waves in boxes

Oct 3, 2015

A statistical method helps to identify abnormal signals in electroencephalograms and locate their source in the brain.

Silver nanospheres expose cancer’s single flaw

Oct 3, 2015

Arrays of tiny silver nanolenses can detect a unique mutation with the potential to cause cancer among a mix of human peptides.

Trend reversals in the Middle East

Oct 3, 2015

Conflict and economic crises, combined with pollution control measures, are changing the air above the Middle East.

Lasers bridge the rainbow

Sep 26, 2015

Subtle changes to the composition of a semiconductor structure enable laser light at colors previously not thought possible.

The Red Sea models the future

Sep 26, 2015

Detailed analysis of nutrient distribution and circulation in the Red Sea could provide a model for the future of the world’s oceans.

Doubled up protein protects against cancer

Sep 26, 2015

Insight into additional functions of a key cancer protein could pave the way for new anti-cancer drugs.

Antibubbles make a splash

Sep 19, 2015

Stable air layers that wrap around liquid drops can retain their remarkable geometries a thousand times longer than theory predicts.

Unlocking complex interactions

Sep 19, 2015

Functions of interacting molecular complexes are uncovered through a novel method of aligning the interaction interface of each complex.

Getting to the roots of microRNA

Sep 12, 2015

Proteins that have dual roles in the molecular processing of RNA could be manipulated to produce tougher plants.

A model for coral-algae relationships

Sep 12, 2015

Analysis of sea anemone genome yields unprecedented detail of anemone-algae symbiosis, and may provide a model for coral symbiosis.

Helping flowing cells make a connection

Sep 5, 2015

A modern twist on a traditional biochemistry technique lets scientists study interactions that trap cells in circulation.

Giving drones a lift

Sep 5, 2015

Simulations show that an actuated jet of air from the wing can dramatically improve the aerodynamic performance of micro-aircraft such as drones.

DNA division can slow to a halt

Aug 31, 2015

Termination sites of DNA are shown to stop slow-moving replication forks but not faster ones.

A solar heater inspired by the lotus flower

Aug 29, 2015

Chemical tricks improve the efficiency and durability of photothermal membranes that use sunlight to turn water into steam.

Resolving richer textures with computer vision

Aug 29, 2015

A novel computing technique recognizes and captures the distinctive surface patterns appearing in videos and images.

Sensing for sustainable agriculture

Aug 22, 2015

Novel use of sensors and associated high-resolution imaging in agriculture aims to facilitate a more sustainable future.

Bacterial power to reduce toxicity of water supply

Aug 22, 2015

Wastewater treatments based on bioelectrochemical systems can generate energy while removing potentially toxic compounds. 

Choosing the right scheme for green communications

Aug 22, 2015

Performance analysis reveals how different resource allocation schemes may impact the energy efficiency of a cognitive radio system.

Honey bee behavior is in the genes

Aug 22, 2015

An integrated set of genetic mechanisms controls whether bees behave as foragers or nurses.

Assessing seawater safety

Aug 15, 2015

Elevated bacterial populations in waters near beaches and urban areas could pose a problem for desalination plants. 

Atomically flat semiconductor devices

Aug 15, 2015

Perfect interfaces between sheets of two-dimensional semiconductors enable advanced electronic devices.

Spreading the flame

Aug 15, 2015

Simulations reveal the final moments of a fuel droplet as it combusts in a spray injection engine.

Dots are part of the solution

Aug 8, 2015

Quantum dots improve the performance of cost-effective, solution-processed solar cells.

Water-treated semiconductors up transistor speed

Aug 8, 2015

Performance improvements of indium zinc oxide transistors could lead to enhanced transparent displays for screens and phones.

A one way trip for water

Aug 1, 2015

A material for filtration that is easy and cheap to produce could aid water treatment, solvent filtration and membrane-catalysis.

Visual computing hits a moving target

Aug 1, 2015

A surprisingly simple algorithm helps computers perceive individual objects inside videos from their movement patterns.

Better routing for wireless networks

Jul 27, 2015

An improved wireless communication protocol enables more robust links between remote electronic devices.

Coral reef fish: not such a family affair

Jul 27, 2015

Some coral reef fish species don’t settle very close to home.

Disease researchers have a way with words

Jul 25, 2015

Specialized word search method sheds light on phenotypic similarity of diseases.

Watching fish adapt to climate change

Jul 20, 2015

A coral reef fish can acclimate to warm temperatures in just two generations.

Signal noise annoys no more

Jul 13, 2015

Identifying noise in communication signals helps to filter out glitches and improve transmission quality.

Resistence requires a rethink of reused water

Jul 13, 2015

Treated wastewater may be suitable for some irrigation uses, but antibiotic-resistant microbes could be cause for concern.

Building better blockers for solar cells

Jul 11, 2015

An oxide layer optimized to selectively transmit electrons can improve the efficiency of organic solar cells beyond 10 percent.

Taking the guesswork out of experimental design

Jul 11, 2015

A fast computational method optimizes sensor measurement networks for noisy, sparsely observed environments.

Silicon tubes for smarter transistors

Jul 7, 2015

Transistor designs based on nanotubes could considerably reduce the power demands of computers.

Ocean's carbon pump reaches new depths

Jul 7, 2015

A look at life in the depths of the ocean reveals an efficient system of pumping carbon out of the atmosphere.

MOFs with smaller pores better select gases

Jun 27, 2015

Making the pores of metal-organic frameworks smaller could open up new opportunities in gas separation techniques.

Perfect absorption graphene style

Jun 27, 2015

A tiny device broadens the bandwith to enable absorption with wide-reaching potential for electrical engineering.

A light load for nano-porters

Jun 20, 2015

Tiny carriers assembled from oppositely charged nanoparticles open to release their cargo under light exposure.

Discovering a new coral species

Jun 20, 2015

A coral named for KAUST could provide a glimpse of future reef conditions under climate change.

QD Solar brings quantum cell technology into the light

Jun 13, 2015

Funding from KAUST is helping to bring innovative solar power technology to fruition with startup company QD Solar.

Peak performance for proteins

Jun 13, 2015

An improved peak fitting procedure enables a better determination of protein structures.

Branching out into solar cells

Jun 6, 2015

The fabrication of branched titanium dioxide nanomaterials enhances the connectivity in solar cells for a better performance.

Finding the face in the crowd

May 30, 2015

An algorithm that maximizes the difference between data categories achieves high accuracy in classifying faces.

Targeting cancer cells with tiny magnetic wires

May 30, 2015

Magnetic nanowires with weak magnetic fields and low frequencies can destroy cancer cells without generating heat.

Plate separation births two volcanic islands

May 26, 2015

The emergence of two volcanic islands in the Red Sea suggests a larger underlying event linked to African-Arabian plate separation.

Pathogens hitch a lift on host’s metabolism

May 26, 2015

A new computational framework shows how pathogens interact with host cells at the metabolic level.

Membranes that can manipulate gases

May 16, 2015

Thin film membranes could efficiently separate carbon dioxide and other gases from mixed gas flow streams.

Whale sharks hide in plain sight

May 16, 2015

Rather than migrating, whale sharks in Tanzania hide surprisingly close to home year-round.

Fixing a greenhouse gas for useful chemicals

May 16, 2015

A catalyst that helps develop a new route to break up carbon dioxide uses a renewable source of clean energy.

On-off switches for quantum devices

May 9, 2015

Efficiently extracting the charge required by quantum dot solar cells can be controlled by chemically configuring molecules.

Winter monsoons keep the Red Sea fertile

May 9, 2015

Finding patterns in big data

May 9, 2015

A statistical approach that can find patterns in large data sets, even in the event of missing or incorrect figures, is proving useful from genomic studies through to planning a marine reserve.

Diet drives gut bacteria in reef fish

May 2, 2015

DNA sequencing of reef fish microbiomes shows that diet is all-important.

Optical chips harness the power of rogue waves

May 2, 2015

A microchip designed to generate and control rogue waves of light on the nano-scale has many potential applications.

Dynamics of deep-sea carbon deposits spike interest

Apr 25, 2015

Analyses of marine bacteria offer insights into processes of carbon storage and release beneath the sea.

Electronics conference gives a positive charge 

Apr 25, 2015

Highlighting sustainability and the work of female researchers was a strong focus of the international KAUST-US NSF electronics conference.

Cloth holds the power for storing energy

Apr 25, 2015

A woven carbon cloth coated in a conducting polymer and an oxide-material provides a stable way of storing energy.

An origami 'slinky' that harvests incidental energy

Apr 25, 2015

Lightweight and low-cost device uses friction inside paper-based coils to transform mechanical motion into electricity.

Taking computing to the next level

Apr 25, 2015

KAUST’s new supercomputer will enable ground-breaking scientific modeling and analysis in Saudi Arabia and worldwide.

Solar cells: a solution for better crystals

Apr 18, 2015

A fast and cost-efficient fabrication process for high-quality perovskite crystals bridges the gap to silicon.

Using nature’s tricks to harvest atmospheric water

Apr 18, 2015

An inkjet-printed surface can turn fog into drinking water using bio-inspired micropatterning and adhesion technology.

Nano therapeutics heat up

Apr 18, 2015

Smart, stretchable pads open up a new approach for thermotherapy.

Neat and complete nanoparticles ready for use

Apr 4, 2015

Replacing the organic molecules surrounding atomically precise silver nanoparticles prepares them for practical applications.

Tsunami: The importance of underwater landslides

Apr 4, 2015

An underwater landslide triggered by the 2011 earthquake in Japan may have exacerbated the resulting tsunami.

Sequencing reveals strains behind cholera outbreak

Mar 28, 2015

Whole-genome sequencing of the bacterium responsible for a cholera outbreak reveals a population structure missed by traditional methods.

A different kind of light

Mar 28, 2015

The discovery of the incandescent light bulb has transformed human existence. New LED technologies promise to be the next step forward.

Exploring the brain by mimicking the brain 

Mar 21, 2015

A new collaboration could lead to supercomputers emulating the efficiency of the brain.

Small tweaks enhance solar cell efficiency

Mar 21, 2015

Electron-rich organic polymers boost power conversion in solar cells.

Getting more fuel from water

Mar 16, 2015

Producing hydrogen from water is improved by creating an orderly catalyst.

Softly softly approach for tiny catalyst

Mar 16, 2015

Researchers reveal a low-impact synthetic strategy for producing supported small nickel nanoparticles – a powerful catalytic form of the metal.

KAUST takes on an expert worth his salt

Mar 16, 2015

A leader in desalination science, TorOve Leiknes gives water treatment research in Saudi Arabia a major boost.

Securing future energy supply

Feb 6, 2015

KAUST’s Earth Science and Engineering Program is underpinned by a drive to develop sustainable ways to get the best from natural resources and quantify environmental hazards.

Decoding noncoding sequences

Feb 6, 2015

Evolution has left alone the protective functions of noncoding sequences of the human genetic blueprint.

A breeding ground for successful start-ups

Feb 6, 2015

State-of-the-art facilities and world-class research projects give rise to thriving start-up companies based at KAUST.

Growing on salty soils

Feb 6, 2015

KAUST Center for Desert Agriculture leads research to improve crop yields from desert soils.

Tiny tuner turns heat into power

Feb 6, 2015

Sustainable energy generation boosted by a nanoscale device that converts thermal infrared radiation to an electrical current.

Plants coping with salt stress

Feb 1, 2015

Discovery of the molecular mechanism by which a protein confers salt tolerance in plants could boost crop yields in high-saline soils.

Herbicide resistance: shedding light on the shikimate pathway

Dec 26, 2014

Resistance to a popular herbicide provides insight into the control of a key biosynthetic pathway.

How extremophiles handle the briny deep

Dec 26, 2014

Single-cell analysis of microbes from Red Sea deep brine pools reveals the genetic innovations needed to thrive in extreme conditions.

Run for your brain

Dec 26, 2014

Lactate plays an unexpected role in brain function.

pH-responsive particles yield a terrific trap

Dec 24, 2014

Nanoparticles with pores that expand and shrink could prove valuable for biochemical research and drug delivery applications.

Molecular movie reveals enzyme’s mechanism of action

Dec 24, 2014

An enzyme involved in maintaining genome fidelity goes through seven steps to recognize its DNA substrates.

Polymer composites: taking stock of bonds

Dec 24, 2014

Theoretical studies analyze the nature of the bonding relationship between conjugated polymers and carbon-based materials.

Warming up for the deep dive

Dec 24, 2014

Devilrays soak up the sun’s heat then make some of the deepest and fastest dives ever recorded in the ocean.

Glassy spin clusters shatter expectations

Dec 24, 2014

Nanoscale thin films containing unconventional, glass-like magnetic states can lead to the development of novel charge-spin coupled devices.

Windows could take the heat

Dec 23, 2014

Generators embedded in windows produce electricity from the temperature differential between an air-conditioned interior and a sunny outside world.

Lights up for chaotic storage

Dec 23, 2014

Chaotic optical resonators can trap more light energy than their orderly counterparts.

Thinking outside the box in flood control

Dec 23, 2014

Floating paper cubes containing low-cost, inkjet printed electronic sensors can wirelessly monitor floods in real time.

Solar cells: connecting the dots

Dec 23, 2014

Light absorption capacity of quantum dot solar cells may soon reach the infrared.

Hope of a silver bullet

Dec 23, 2014

A single photon can free two electrons within a nanocrystal of silver sulfide, revealing its promise as a solar cell material.

Unlocking the mysteries of Red Sea eddies

Dec 23, 2014

First-time reports of the statistical properties of ‘whirlpools’ show they are frequent and seasonal.

Fuel for thought: Improving combustion for a cleaner future

Dec 23, 2014

KAUST’s Clean Combustion Research Center aims to develop technologies for future fuel formulations, more efficient engines, and new methods for power generation.

Capturing carbon dioxide

Dec 23, 2014

Chemically fine-tuning the structure of a class of light porous materials allows efficient and selective removal of CO₂ from air.

Flexible transistor shows memory potential

Dec 23, 2014

Multitasking ferroelectric polymer could store or process data faster than its rivals.

A speedy solution for sharper star gazing

Dec 22, 2014

A novel algorithm promises faster functionality for the world’s largest optical-near infrared telescope.

Graphene is taking charge

Dec 22, 2014

Graphene-based capacitors prove useful in advanced non-linear electronics.

Parasite scan yields new targets

Dec 20, 2014

Enzymes crucial to parasite growth offer clues in fight against malaria.

Bugs boost clean-up

Dec 17, 2014

Resins improve bacterial performance in converting seawater to potable supply.

Plenty more fish in the deep sea

Dec 17, 2014

Mysterious deep dwelling fish are vastly more plentiful than previously thought and are likely to play a major role in ocean carbon budgets.

Bent, but not broken

Dec 17, 2014

Bendable electronics could help make robust wearable devices that can continuously monitor a person’s health.

Blueprint guides the shape of things to come

Dec 14, 2014

The ability to more precisely design an industrial material will support broad applications such as the storage of gas, including CO2.

Making the silent genes speak

Dec 13, 2014

Regulating an overlooked set of genes may help biologists manipulate cells to find new therapy options.

Fewer steps to a shining success

Dec 9, 2014

Streamlining the process to fabricate quantum dot devices could improve their potential as low-cost, flexible solar cells.