KU Times - July 2024 by KUBrochures

Future Leaders Emerge:

HH Sheikh Khaled Lauds

Khalifa University’s

Class of ‘24

About KU Times

KU Times is a newsletter published by the Khalifa University Marketing and Communications Department. It aims to keep our stakeholders informed and updated about Khalifa University’s latest breakthroughs, cutting-edge research, collaborations, initiatives, student activities and news.

If you would like to submit an idea for an article, nominate students or others to be interviewed, provide suggestions on topics you would like to read about, or simply want to leave a comment, please email us at communications@ku.ac.ae.

The Team

Sayed Al Hashmi, Director, Marketing & Communication

Momen Khaiti, Manager, Communication

Clarence Michael, English Editor Specialist

Alisha Roy, Science Writer

Jacob George, Production Officer (Marketing)

Nada Sami Assadi, Digital Marketing Senior Specialist

Kendh Muhannad Al Adem, Internal & External Digital Officer

06 08 09

Celebrating 826 Graduates in 2024

Certificates and Medallions for Academic Excellence at 2024 Honors Day

Researchers Discover Earth’s Earliest Fresh Water and Land, Revealing Key Ingredients for Life

Research-Focused Magazine Explorer Launched

Innovation Exhibition 2024 Features 50 Promising Engineering Concepts

Biotechnology and Medical Innovations Introduced at Abu Dhabi

Global Healthcare Week 2024

Innovators Make a Splash with ROVs at SeaPerch West Asia Regional Challenge

Team Fly Eagle Qualifies for Abu Dhabi Autonomous Racing League Finals

Special Olympics UAE Kicks Off First GCC Badminton Competition at Khalifa

University UAE 2024 GSRC Shapes Future of Research

Cyber

Fatima Ahmed Al Khoori

ACCOLADES KEEP POURING IN

The spring term has come to a close, culminating in our annual graduation ceremony and Honors Day. But with summer just around the corner, we reflect on a season marked by much success in sustainability and community engagement.

Innovation and teamwork remained front and center at the World Future Energy Summit (WFES) 2024, and the UAE Education Interface Exhibition, while faculty and students continued their winning streak in various challenges. In competitions ranging from driverless car races to hackathons, our high achievers demonstrated exceptional skills. Achievements, coupled with our dedication to academic excellence and key findings was also captured in the pages of our newly launched Explorer magazine. In keeping with the spirit of appreciation felt across campus, we expressed our gratitude to our workforce on the International Workers’ Day.

Rankings; those are certainly something to celebrate. Like our ascent to the top spot in the UAE and 40th in Asia in THE Asia University Rankings 2024, along with a leap to 27th spot worldwide in THE Young University Rankings 2024. A remarkable 202nd place globally and being top in the UAE - seven years straight - in the QS World University Rankings 2025 ushered in yet another feat, fueled by our fast-growing recognition at both regional and global stages.

More of these in this edition, as we share another new journey with you. Until next time!

Worldwide in THE Young University Rankings 2024

th Globally and being top in the UAE in the QS World University Rankings 2025

FROM THE NEWSROOM

Highlights of the latest important announcements, strategic initiatives, new partnerships, and VIP visits

CELEBRATING 826 GRADUATES IN 2024

His Highness Sheikh Khaled bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi and Chairman of the Abu Dhabi Executive Council attended the Khalifa University 2024 graduation ceremony, celebrating 826 students receiving their bachelor’s, master’s, and PhD degrees.

His Highness Sheikh Khaled congratulated the graduates, their parents and the university management on the remarkable academic achievement. His Highness also wished the new graduates success in their future careers and encouraged them to contribute to the nation’s progress in line with strategic national goals.

CERTIFICATES AND MEDALLIONS FOR ACADEMIC EXCELLENCE AT 2024 HONORS DAY

The Khalifa University high-performers received their honors based on several stringent criteria including academic excellence, rigorous scholarship, demonstrated attainment of learning outcomes and timely progress towards graduation.

The honors students were divided into two lists with 483 students on the President’s List and 421 on the Dean’s List. They also qualify for the Golden Key Honor Society, with the University hosting the only Middle East chapter, setting a new standard of academic excellence.

Reserved for students with exceptional academic performance, the criteria for the President’s List include earning a semester GPA of 3.80 or higher, completing a minimum of 12 credit hours without incomplete grades or repeated courses, and not being on academic probation or subject to disciplinary action. The Dean’s List recognizes students with a similar level of achievement, with criteria including a semester GPA of 3.50-3.79.

Dr. Mahmoud Al-Qutayri, Associate Provost, Academic Operations addressing the Honor students

RESEARCHERS DISCOVER EARTH’S EARLIEST FRESH WATER AND LAND, REVEALING KEY INGREDIENTS FOR LIFE

Researchers from the Earth Sciences department, College of Engineering and Physical Sciences, are piecing together a more comprehensive picture of our planet’s ancient past. They have uncovered evidence of ancient hydrological processes dating back to 4 billion years, revealing the first evidence of the presence of freshwater and dry land in our planet’s early stages. More importantly, the research shed light into the unique environmental conditions significant for the development of life on Earth.

The momentous finding is detailed in the ‘Onset of the Earth’s hydrological cycle four billion years ago or earlier’ by the lead author of the study, Dr. Hamed Gamaleldien, Assistant Professor, along with an international team of researchers, published in Nature Geoscience, a top 1% of Earth and Planetary Science journals.

Dr. Hamed Gamaleldien, Assistant Professor, Earth Sciences

RESEARCH-FOCUSED MAGAZINE EXPLORER LAUNCHED

Research-focused publication Explorer which highlights pioneering innovations from Khalifa University was launched at an event held at the Main Campus. Issued in collaboration with Nature Research Custom Media, Explorer is part of Springer Nature Group, the leading academic and scientific publisher. The launch ceremony was attended by Dr. Arif Sultan Al Hammadi, Executive Vice-President, and members of the University’s management and researchers.

Explorer includes important findings from the university’s research groups, special facilities, labs and research centers. Articles on space exploration, regenerative medicine, and the development of a fully functioning bio-artificial kidney are included in this first issue, which also features a pioneering study on a specific class of drugs to safeguard patients suffering from a form of heart failure, as well as genomic analysis on diabetic kidney disease in the UAE.

TRANSFORMATIVE INNOVATIONS DRIVE WORLD FUTURE ENERGY SUMMIT 2024

A showcase of 11 green innovations emphasized Khalifa University’s role in sustainable community outreach at the World Future Energy Summit (WFES) 2024. Members of the Young Future Energy Leaders (YFEL) program took center stage in the three-day event at the Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre (ADNEC), which brought together global leaders, industry influencers, problem-solvers, and decision-makers, focusing on sustainable cutting-edge solutions.

Technology innovations on display included an Software for Power Grid Stability, the Masdar Institute Solar Platform (MISP), which is a solar thermal energy conversion and storage facility, a Li-ion battery pack demonstrated with an E-scooter, Radiative cooling sheets for solar energy and greenhouse applications, project on the Climate Change Impacts in MENA region, and a Fully-sustainable, solar-powered water-from-air-system.

INTENSE INVOLVEMENT OF YFEL MEMBERS AT WFES 2024

At WFES 2024, members of the University’s flagship 2024 cohort of the Young Future Energy Leaders (YFEL) outreach program participated in a Case Study Competition and a session titled ‘Exploring Automation: A Deep Dive into Robotics and Technical Innovation’. The YFEL members connected with experts for collaboration and knowledge sharing, and engaged with experts on the latest trends in renewable energy. Drawing inspiration from the success stories for impactful projects, they explored new solutions for sustainability challenges.

The YFEL program offers members exceptional and unmatched access to top global leaders, senior business executives and academics engaged in alternative energy and sustainability at global forums such as WFES 2024, while also offering access to specialized training for effective leadership.

INNOVATION EXHIBITION 2024 FEATURES 50 PROMISING ENGINEERING CONCEPTS

A total of 50 innovative senior design projects from several disciplines were showcased to various stakeholders at Khalifa University Innovation Day 2024, an annual exhibition that acknowledges the creative excellence of senior graduating students.

The wide array of senior design concepts displayed at the Main Campus included innovations from the areas of electrical engineering and computer science, biomedical engineering, management science and engineering, mechanical and nuclear engineering, and civil and environmental engineering and aerospace engineering.

QS

WORLD UNIVERSITY

RANKINGS

2025: KU JUMPS 28 SPOTS TO 202ND GLOBALLY AND TOP IN UAE FOR SEVENTH CONSECUTIVE

YEAR

Khalifa University has jumped 28 slots to be ranked Top in the UAE for seven years in a row and 202nd globally in the QS World University Rankings 2025, which assessed over 1,500 universities across 105 countries/territories. In the QS World University Rankings 2025, Khalifa University has performed well while scoring ‘100’ globally for International Faculty Ratio, the strongest indicator.

TOP IN UAE AND 40TH IN ASIA IN THE ASIA UNIVERSITY RANKINGS 2024

Khalifa University has jumped five slots to be ranked top in the UAE and 40th in Asia in the Times Higher Education (THE) Asia University Rankings 2024, which has evaluated 739 universities from 31 countries/territories. With three colleges including the College of Engineering and Physical Science, College of Computing and Mathematical Sciences, and College of Medicine and Health Sciences, the University remains at the forefront of providing a research environment that is unparalleled in the UAE.

27TH WORLDWIDE AND TOP IN MENA IN THE YOUNG UNIVERSITY RANKINGS 2024

Khalifa University has ranked 27th worldwide and top in the MENA region in the Times Higher Education (THE) Young University Rankings 2024, moving 22 slots higher from the 49th place in last year’s ranking. In the 2024 ranking, there has been an increase in the number of universities listed from 605 in 2023 to 673. The THE Young University Rankings lists the world’s best universities that are 50 years and younger and utilize the same 13 performance indicators as the flagship THE World University Rankings.

ACADEMIC, RESEARCH AND SCHOLARSHIP OPTIONS PRESENTED AT 10TH UAE EDUCATION INTERFACE EXHIBITION

AND

MIDDLE EAST YOUTH CONFERENCE

A broad spectrum of academic programs, from engineering to biomedical sciences, as well as scholarship options, innovative projects and accomplishments of Khalifa University faculty and students were showcased during the UAE Education Interface Exhibition and Middle East Youth Conference 2024.

The 10th edition of the two-day exhibition and conference, held under the patronage of Lt. General His Highness Sheikh Saif bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Interior took place at the Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre (ADNEC). During the event, the Khalifa University stand provided an overview of key initiatives including the more than 90% scholarships option that aimed to meet capacity building objectives under the UAE’s vision 2030 plan.

BIOTECHNOLOGY AND MEDICAL INNOVATIONS INTRODUCED AT ABU DHABI GLOBAL HEALTHCARE WEEK 2024

The Khalifa University Center for Biotechnology at the College of Medicine and Health Sciences (KU CMHS) presented the latest healthcare-related research at the Abu Dhabi Global Healthcare Week (ADGHW) 2024 introducing advancements in the field as well as innovative projects for rehabilitation, including the Lower Limb Knee Exoskeleton.

The Lower Limb Knee Exoskeleton for Rehabilitation device, designed to enhance recovery for individuals facing knee impairments incorporates cutting-edge technology like robotic design, biomechanics, intelligent systems, and human-robot interaction. Alongside the presentation of the Vital Rhythms initiative, the Center for Experiential Learning and Clinical Simulation (KU-CELS) also demonstrated its commitment to enhancing patient care quality and safety.

3RD UAE ANATOMY AND CELLULAR BIOLOGY CONFERENCE HIGHLIGHTS EVOLUTION OF CLINICAL ANATOMY

The evolution of clinical anatomy and the role of imaging modalities in collaborative research was highlighted at the UAE Anatomy and Cellular Biology Conference 2024, the third edition of the annual meeting of anatomists within the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region that was hosted by Khalifa University.

More than 100 anatomists, human biologists, and health professionals from across the MENA region, and the world attended the two-day event that featured a packed program focusing on the latest advancements in the fields of anatomy and cellular biology. The program included two keynotes, three plenary speakers, six podium sessions, and over 80 poster presentations. The conference also included a guided tour of Khalifa University’s state-of-the-art Anatomy Labs and the Body Museum.

NEWLY APPOINTED CO-CHAIRS TO TAKE UAE’S UNIVERSITIES CLIMATE NETWORK TO NEXT STAGE OF REGION-WIDE ACTION

The UAE’s Universities Climate Network (UCN), a 33-member group, has announced the appointment of Khalifa University’s Dr. Samuel Mao and Dr. Rasha Bayoumi of the University of Birmingham Dubai as Co-Chairs, taking the UCN to the next stage of advancing climate action regionally and internationally, and promoting sustainability across the UAE’s academic sector.

An official virtual handover ceremony organized by New York University Abu Dhabi (NYUAD) was attended by His Excellency Edward Hobart, the UK Ambassador to the UAE, His Excellency Ambassador Majid Al-Suwaidi, Director-General, COP28 UAE Presidency, Professor Sir John O’Reilly, and other key stakeholders. Maya Haddad from Ajman University will be Head of Operations, UCN.

YFEL GERMAN-EMIRATI SUSTAINABILITY DAYS CONFERENCE 2024 ADVANCES NET-ZERO SOLUTIONS

A two-week initiative towards driving sustainability solutions began with an opening ceremony of the Young Future Energy Leaders (YFEL) GermanEmirati Sustainability Days Conference 2024 at Khalifa University. The fourth edition of the conference, organized by the German Emirati Joint Council for Industry and Commerce (AHK), is supported by German firms including BASF, Linde, Siemens AG, and Wilo.

The opening ceremony was attended by various local, regional and international stakeholders including His Excellency Alexander Schönfelder, Ambassador of the Federal Republic of Germany to the UAE, who delivered the welcome message. A keynote address on ‘COP28 and Tripling Renewables’ was presented by Dr. Ute Collier, Deputy Director, Knowledge Policy and Finance Centre, International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA). A panel discussion titled ‘Advancing Green Technologies for a Decarbonized Future’, moderated by Karin Zangerl, Director of the AHK, Abu Dhabi Office, featured representatives from the supporting German firms. Oliver Oehms, CEO, AHK, emphasized the importance of the conference in his welcome note.

Dr. Yousof Alhammadi, Senior Vice-President, Academic Affairs and Student Services, highlighted the collective goals of the German industry and the YFEL members.

IAEA TECHNICAL MEETING FOCUSES ON STAKEHOLDER ENGAGEMENT

Khalifa University hosted the 2024 Technical Meeting on Stakeholder Involvement and Public Communication, organized by the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) bringing together IAEA member states and key organizations. Exchanging insights and experiences, members also shared information and lessons learned related to stakeholder involvement across various stages of nuclear power programs.

TEAM FLY EAGLE QUALIFIES FOR ABU DHABI AUTONOMOUS RACING LEAGUE FINALS

Khalifa University-based Team Fly Eagle, a collaboration with Beijing Institute of Technology (BIT), participated and qualified in the thrilling Abu Dhabi Autonomous Racing League (A2RL) organized by Aspire. After a fierce competition, Team Fly Eagle’s fully automated vehicle ‘Feiying’ controlled by intelligent systems registered one of best lap times, successfully qualifying as the finalists. The feat showcased the team’s exceptional skills in building an autonomous car with cutting-edge technology, equipped with seven 360-degree cameras and three Light Detection and Ranging (LiDAR) remote sensing systems. The driver-free car raced along the Yas Marina Circuit pushing the boundaries of extreme motorsport and autonomous racing.

ENTC FANR LED MORAD RESEARCH PROGRAM COMPLETES PHASE 1, SHEDS LIGHT ON UAE RADIOLOGICAL ENVIRONMENTAL ASPECTS

In a significant stride towards achieving the UAE’s peaceful nuclear goals, Khalifa University’s Emirates Nuclear Technology Center (ENTC), in collaboration with the Federal Authority for Nuclear Regulation (FANR) and the French Institut de Radioprotection et de Sûreté Nucléaire (IRSN) has successfully completed Phase 1 of the Numerical Modelling of Radionuclides Dispersion (MORAD) research program. The collaboration has yielded 11 published papers, highlighting crucial environmental aspects.

Playing a vital role in supporting the UAE’s peaceful nuclear energy sector, the primary objective of the MORAD program is to elevate the UAE’s capacity to simulate the dispersion of radioactive material across marine, atmospheric, and continental environments as well as regional and local features.

HIGH-LEVEL FANR, ENEC DELEGATION VISITS KHALIFA UNIVERSITY’S ENTC

Khalifa University's SAN Campus hosted a high-level delegation from the Federal Authority for Nuclear Regulation (FANR) and the Emirates Nuclear Energy Corporation (ENEC). During the interaction, the latest peaceful nuclear energy technologies and novel research initiatives were demonstrated at the University’s Emirates Nuclear Technology Center (ENTC). The visit aimed to foster collaboration and offered an opportunity to gain an overview of strategic objectives, and updates on the progress and ongoing activities at the ENTC. It underscored the strong partnership between Khalifa University, FANR, and ENEC in advancing nuclear technology and research in the UAE.

Professor Sir John O’Reilly addresses the delegation.

His Excellency Mohamed Ibrahim Al Hammadi, the Emirates Nuclear Energy Corporation’s (ENEC) Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer at Khalifa University.

BUILDING TOMORROW’S INNOVATORS THROUGH YOUNG ADIPEC’S SCHOOL CONNECT PARTNERSHIP

As part of the initiative for Young ADIPEC 2024, Khalifa University organized its first visit to Al Rawafed Private School. Grade 11 students explored the University’s pioneering science departments through engaging experiments and exercises. They learned about diverse academic programs, admissions processes, and scholarship and career opportunities, gaining valuable insights into the future of energy and innovation.

Khalifa University was selected the School Connect Partner for Young ADIPEC 2024 to inspire tomorrow’s changemakers by empowering them to collaborate, unify around a common cause, and play a central role in creating a more inclusive and progressive energy future. Young ADIPEC acts as a dynamic platform for building future youth capacities and expanding the knowledge and creativity of the next generation of energy leaders.

SPECIAL OLYMPICS UAE KICKS OFF FIRST GCC BADMINTON COMPETITION AT KHALIFA UNIVERSITY

Special Olympics UAE organized the first Special Olympics MENA’s Sub-Regional GCC Badminton Competition in Abu Dhabi in partnership with Special Olympics MENA, Abu Dhabi Sports Council, UAE Badminton Federation, Badminton World Federation, and Khalifa University. The competition united athletes and partners across the region, encouraging camaraderie and sportsmanship.

Delegations from Special Olympics programs in Saudi Arabia, Oman, Qatar, Bahrain, Kuwait, and the UAE came together for the opening ceremony, held at the W Hotel on Yas Island, which was attended by representatives of diplomatic missions of participating countries.

NAVIGATING KU RESEARCH? IT’S EASY WITH KHAZNA

In January 2024, Khalifa University launched Khazna, a cuttingedge institutional repository platform powered by Elsevier’s Pure research information management system. Khazna provides a comprehensive and easily accessible platform for exploring the university’s academic and research output.

Khazna offers detailed profiles of faculty and researchers, their research interests, publications, projects, teaching activities, and infrastructure. The platform hosts a vast collection of over 1,885 PhD and Masters theses, with full metadata, abstracts, and, in most cases, full-text access. New theses are imported automatically three times a year. The system seamlessly connects theses to their advisors’ profiles and departments, creating a rich network of information. The profile also generates data about citations, h-index, and also automatically ties into the Plum-x and Altmetrics data for each scholarly work.

USER-FRIENDLY PLATFORM FOR DISCOVERING RESEARCH

A comprehensive list of Khalifa University's research publications, including books, chapters, and peer-reviewed journal articles feature detailed metadata, citations, and metrics, providing insights into the impact of the research. Student theses, research output, and courses taught can also be found. One of the most impressive parts of the system is that it automatically generates a map of collaborators for authors, showing which international universities an author has collaborated with.

Khazna is designed to be user-friendly and accessible to anyone in the world and serves as a valuable resource for researchers, students, and the broader academic community, enhancing the visibility of Khalifa University's research and fostering global collaborations.

KU INTERNAL AUDIT TEAM WINS AWARD AT THE AUDIT SUMMIT 2024

Khalifa University’s Internal Audit team has been recognized for their outstanding achievements in the field of IT auditing. THE Audit Summit 2024, with its theme ‘Dynamics of Agile Auditing,’honored the team with the Leading Practices in Internal Audit (LPIA) award in the IT category. This accolade underscores the team’s commitment to excellence and innovation in ensuring the university’s IT systems are robust, secure, and aligned with best practices.

AICAS 2024 STRENGTHENS TIES: ACADEMIA, INDUSTRY, GOVERNMENT UNITE

Khalifa University organized the 6th IEEE International Conference on Artificial Intelligence Circuits and Systems (AICAS 2024). With contributions from 23 countries across Asia/Pacific, Europe, Middle East/Africa, and North America, AICAS 2024 facilitated valuable interactions between academia, industry, government, and research institutions, fostering collaboration and driving innovation in this rapidly evolving field.

RARE BOOKS ABOUT UAE’S HERITAGE AND HISTORY SHOWCASED AT ABU DHABI INTERNATIONAL BOOK FAIR 2024

Rare books about the UAE’s heritage and history were on display at Khalifa University’s stand during the Abu Dhabi International Book Fair 2024. Among the notable works were early books published on the UAE’s leaders including the Founding Father of the UAE Late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan. Providing a unique opportunity for attendees to access valuable resources and gain insights into the UAE’s history and achievements, Khalifa University also gave away books to visitors attending the event.

KU FACULTY LEAD EMIRATI THINKERS DIALOGUES AT ADIBF 2024

Khalifa University faculty engaged visitors and key stakeholders with their expertise on various topics. The sessions were held as part of the Emirati Thinkers Dialogues series at Emirates Center for Strategic Studies and Research (ECSSR) pavilion at the Abu Dhabi International Book Fair (ADIBF) 2024.

Dr. Jamal Al-Sawalhi, Assistant Professor, Electrical Engineering highlighted the importance of investing in electric chargers during a session entitled ‘Electric Chargers and the World’s Need for Them,’ which was held as part of the Emirati Thinkers Dialogues series at The Emirates Centre for Strategic Studies and Research (ECSSR) pavilion at the ADIBF 2024.

Dr. Saeed Aqeel Al Ameri, Assistant Professor, Nuclear Engineering , stressed on the importance of nuclear energy as the best way to achieve the goals of climate neutrality.

Dr. Ameena Al Sumaiti, Associate Professor, Electrical Engineering, emphasized the importance of electricity during her session noting an increase in poverty levels exacerbated by insufficient access to electricity.

Dr. Yusra Abdulrahman, Assistant Professor, Aerospace Engineering highlighted the importance of investment in the aerospace industry during her session at the ECSSR stand in the ADIBF 2024.

KNOWLEDGE PROJECT FEATURED AT ADIBF 2024

Professor Sir John O’Reilly visited the Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Knowledge Foundation platform at the Abu Dhabi International Book Fair 2024, and learned about the Global Knowledge Project, where he was received by Dr. Hany Torky, Chief Technical Advisor, Arab Knowledge Project at the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP).

The Knowledge Project is a joint initiative between the United Nations Development Programme’s Regional Bureau for Arab States (UNDP RBAS) and the Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum Knowledge Foundation (MBRF) that aims at supporting countries of the Arab States region and beyond in their journeys to build knowledge societies to achieve sustainable development.

TII 6G RESEARCH CENTER KICKOFF

MEETING

Khalifa University launched the first official meeting to inaugurate the 6G Research Chair as part of a strategic partnership with the Technology Innovation Institute (TII) - Abu Dhabi for 6G Technologies Research. The meeting aimed to understand the context of the chair, describe its organization, and offer all stakeholders the opportunity to meet and exchange knowledge. The vision for the current research program, team members, and KU-TII interactions were also identified. The initiative also aims to bolster Abu Dhabi’s status as a hub for top-tier research in sixth-generation wireless networks in the UAE and across the region.

UAE 2024 GSRC SHAPES FUTURE OF RESEARCH

Khalifa University’s Executive Vice-President and the UAE GSRC 2024 Steering Committee Chair, Dr. Arif Sultan Al Hammadi attended the 2024 UAE Graduate Students Research Conference (GSRC). The conference was organized by The British University in Dubai, New York University Abu Dhabi, Khalifa University, Ajman University, Mohamed Bin Zayed University of Artificial Intelligence, University of Sharjah, Abu Dhabi University, and the American University of Sharjah as well as UAE University, this year’s host. The event fostered connections between academia, industry, government, and international stakeholders, while facilitating collaborations to drive innovation and shape the future of research in the UAE and across the globe.

MY CAMPUS, MY COMMUNITY

Student & faculty achievements, and campus activities

FACULTY JOINS EDITORIAL BOARD OF SPRINGER NATURE’S COMMUNICATIONS ENGINEERING JOURNAL

Khalifa University faculty Dr. Ahsan Ul Haq Qurashi, Deputy Director, Center for Catalysis and Separation (CeCAS), and Associate Professor, Chemistry has been appointed to the editorial board of Springer Nature’s Communications Engineering to oversee manuscripts related to electrocatalysis and nanotechnology for clean energy applications. Communications Engineering, a journal that supports Springer Nature’s effort to advance progress towards the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (UN SDGs) publishes research papers that represent developments for specialized areas.

KHALIFA UNIVERSITY SCIENTIST APPOINTED FELLOW OF THE LEARNED SOCIETY OF WALES

Khalifa University’s Dr. Michael Pycraft Hughes, Professor, Biomedical Engineering and Biotechnology has been honored as a Fellow of the Learned Society of Wales (FLSW) April 2024, which allows him to join a select group of individuals who actively contribute to the Society’s work in advancing academic, cultural, and civic life in Wales and across the region, in several scientific fields. In a letter confirming the appointment, Professor Hywel Thomas, President of the Learned Society of Wales, commended Dr. Hughes for his outstanding accomplishments and acknowledged him as a leading figure in the field of biomedical engineering and his impact in advancing knowledge and understanding in this critical area of research.

FACULTY AWARDED SWARD GRANTS BY SANDOOQ AL WATAN FOR INNOVATIVE RESEARCH PROJECTS

Four faculty from Khalifa University have been awarded grants ranging from AED100,000 to AED500,000 by the Sandooq Al Watan Applied Research and Development (SWARD) initiative for their research projects that focus on contributing to advancing the UAE’s circular economy, combating climate change, and promoting social sustainability.

Dr. Charalampos Pitsalidis, Assistant Professor, Physics; Dr. Maryam Khaleel, Assistant Professor, Chemical and Petroleum Engineering; Dr. Naoufel Werghi, Professor, Electrical Engineering; and Dr. Ahmed Alhajaj, Assistant Professor, Chemical and Petroleum Engineering, have received grants of up to AED500,000 each.

CYBER SECURITY ACADEMY WINS

BEST INNOVATIVE IDEA AWARD

Dr. Luigi Martino, Director of the Cyber Security Academy at Khalifa University, along with his team, has been honored with the Best Innovative Idea (Academia) award by the UAE Cyber Security Council as well as a cash prize of AED10,000. This recognition was given during the prestigious Cyber Stars competition at GISEC Global. The award-winning idea, Cyber Security Academy, is a joint initiative led by Khalifa University’s Center for Secure Cyber Physical Systems (C2PS) and KU Continuing Education.

KHALIFA UNIVERSITY STUDENTS WIN FIRST PLACE AT UAE HACKATHON

Khalifa University students Mohamed Ahmed AlHindi and Mohammed Abdulla Saeed Al Ghaithi, from the College of Engineering secured first place and won AED50,000 at the UAE Hackathon held at Sharjah University City Hall with their groundbreaking project, Eduverse.

The project, which was selected in the Entrepreneurs track, is a gamified platform for diverse technical resources. By integrating Intelligent Systems and metaverse technologies, Eduverse aims to transform learning into an affordable, engaging, and practical experience for learners of all ages. This innovative project promotes essential technical skills, and contributes to the UAE’s national educational goals with a commitment to zero bureaucracy.

KHALIFA UNIVERSITY TEAM WINS AED10,000 PRIZE IN ‘INNOTANK’ INNOVATE CHALLENGE

A team of researchers from Khalifa University have won the third place prize of AED10,000 and emerged victorious at the Khalifa Fund for Enterprise Development’s inaugural edition of the “Innovate” Innovation Challenge, for their 3D Printing for STEM Education project. The challenge, which was launched in February 2024, in conjunction with the UAE’s Innovation Month’, provided a platform for students from universities in Abu Dhabi to find practical solutions to real-world challenges facing entrepreneurs in priority sectors.

The event was held at Khalifa Fund Headquarters, where teams pitched their final presentations to a panel of judges. The topics tackled were: Sustainable Precision Agriculture Innovation; smart city solutions for sustainable urban living; Healthcare Accessibility and Innovation Challenge; and Sustainable Tourism Enhancement Challenge.

HKUST DELEGATION EXPLORES COLLABORATION OPPORTUNITIES IN BIOTECH AND ROBOTICS

Khalifa University welcomed a delegation from the Hong Kong University of Science and Technology (HKUST), led by President Prof. Nancy Ip. Professor Sir John O’Reilly gave a brief summary of the University’s cutting-edge work in biotechnology, robotics, and aerospace engineering as the delegation toured the campus. The visit included discussions on potential collaboration in biomedicine, intelligent systems, robotics, and sustainability, highlighting new prospects for future cooperation between the two institutions.

LOCKHEED MARTIN EXECUTIVES EXPLORE FUTURE INTERNSHIP PROGRAMS

Several senior leaders from Lockheed Martin Middle East visited Khalifa University and toured the campus to discuss areas of cooperation in the UAE, including human capital development and expanded STEM and Intelligent Systemsbased internship programs.

CRITICAL APPLICATIONS OF NEUROMORPHIC PERCEPTION AND COMPUTING HIGHLIGHTED

NORTH-WEST UNIVERSITY VISIT LAYS GROUNDWORK FOR FUTURE COOPERATION

Khalifa University recently hosted a delegation from North-West University, South Africa, marking a significant step towards fostering international collaboration. The visit encompassed in-depth discussions on potential partnership opportunities, particularly in health research, food and water security, and intelligent systems applications. Both institutions shared insights into their strategic objectives, academic programs, and research areas.

Advanced technology that mimics the human brain or ‘neuromorphic’ capability was highlighted at a seminar organized by Khalifa University’s Advanced Research and Innovation Center (ARIC). The talk, delivered by Dr. Kynan Eng, Co-founder and CEO of Zurich-based IniVation, a spin-off of IniLabs and ETH Zurich, focused on critical applications of neuromorphic perception and computing, exploring its potential across industries. The seminar titled ‘Neuromorphic Vision: Principles, Applications, and Future’ also highlighted the critical applications for which neuromorphic technology lay the groundwork in various sectors. He emphasized its role in high-speed inspection, precise and rapid manufacturing solutions, cluttered environment applications, and particle image velocimetry.

Dr. Kynan Eng, Co-founder and CEO of Zurich-based IniVation addresses the gathering.

INNOVATORS MAKE A SPLASH WITH ROVS AT SEAPERCH WEST ASIA REGIONAL CHALLENGE

Khalifa University organized the 2024 SeaPerch West Asia Regional Challenge, qualifying students for the finals of the international competition set to take place in Maryland, US. The winning teams were the American Baccalaureate School, Wildcats Engineering team; The American Community School of Abu Dhabi, Viper Diver (Viper Bada Diver V1) team; STEMA Center Development and Training Center, Dubai, Sea Divers team. The SeaPerch program encourages STEM education by having students build Remotely Operated Underwater Vehicles (ROVs) using accessible materials.

AND THE WINNERS OF THE EXCELLENCE AWARDS ARE...

Khalifa University recently honored the outstanding achievements of its faculty members at this year’s Faculty Awards ceremony. These awards recognize remarkable dedication and transformative impact on student learning and research.

The recipients of the awards included Dr. Imad Barsoum, Associate Professor, Mechanical & Nuclear Engineering, Dr. Eman Al Sarairah, Senior Lecturer, College of Computing and Mathematical Sciences, Dr. Wael Osman, Assistant Professor, Biological Sciences, Dr. Ludovic Dumee, Assistant Professor, Chemical & Petroleum Engineering. Dr. Raja Jayaraman, Associate Professor, Management Science & Engineering, Prof. Ibrahim Elfadel, from the Computer & Communication Engineering department, and Dr. Basem Al Omari, Assistant Professor, Public Health and Epidemiology, were also celebrated for their pioneering work.

AEROSPACE ENGINEERING STUDENTS INSPIRE AT THALES OFFICES

Khalifa University engineering students from the AIAA Chapter visited the Thales offices and participated in an engaging session showcasing cutting-edge aerospace engineering solutions. Thales Group is a French multinational company that designs, develops and manufactures electrical systems as well as devices and equipment for the aerospace, transportation and security sectors.

LEEDS HONORS STUDENTS EXPLORE KIC’S INNOVATIVE PROGRAMS

Khalifa University welcomed 28 Honors students from the University of Colorado Boulder’s Leeds School of Business who explored the critical role of innovation and entrepreneurship that continues to shape the UAE’s academic and business landscape. Exploring the novel initiatives and programs offered by the Khalifa Innovation Centre (KIC), the students learned about the successful entrepreneurial ventures and startups by the University.

APPRECIATION FOR THOSE BEHIND THE SCENES

Khalifa University recognized the maintenance and housekeeping personnel, its valued members of the community, on the occasion of the International Day of the Worker 2024 or Labor Day, which is observed every 1 May.

INTERNATIONAL DAY OF THE WORKER 2024

CMHS

SUCCESSFULLY CONCLUDES ADVANCED CARDIAC LIFE SUPPORT INSTRUCTOR COURSE

Under the supervision of the American Heart Association and the regional faculty Dr. Mahmoud Jufaili from Sultan Qaboos University, Oman, the simulation team at the College of Medicine and Health Sciences (CMHS) successfully concluded the Advanced Cardiac Life Support (ACLS) Instructor Course.

ASTRONOMY DAY REVEALS WONDERS OF THE COSMOS

From insightful seminars to thrilling telescope observations and mini-planetarium adventures, Astronomy Day 2024 was a day filled with discovery and inspiration. Khalifa University students explored the cosmos and connected with leading experts in Physics and Astronomy.

ALUMNI SUCCESS STORY FEATURING

FATIMA AHMED AL KHOORI

From her undergraduate studies in Transportation Engineering to a Master’s in Sustainable Critical Infrastructure, Fatima’s academic journey at Khalifa University remains significant in her professional endeavors. Now leading as the head of Research and Knowledge Management Section at the Department of Government Enablement (DGE), she believes Khalifa University’s diverse, goal-oriented environment, and expertise in research and development, paved the way for her successful career. We are incredibly proud of our graduates like Fatima for their inspiring journeys and the profound impact of their education as they continue to excel in their fields.

COMING SOON

COMING SOON: IROS – 36TH EDITION OF INTERNATIONAL CONFERENCE ON INTELLIGENT ROBOTS AND SYSTEMS – ABU DHABI

The region’s rapidly advancing capabilities in intelligent robots and smart machines will be showcased to the international robotics community at the 36th edition of the IEEE/RSJ International Conference on Intelligent Robots and Systems (IROS 2024), hosted by Khalifa University in Abu Dhabi, to highlight the region’s rapidly advancing capabilities in the robotics and intelligent transport systems.

COLLEGE OF ENGINEERING AND PHYSICAL SCIENCES

LEADER IN RESEARCH

COLLEGE OF COMPUTING AND MATHEMATICAL SCIENCES

COLLEGE OF MEDICINE & HEALTH SCIENCE

The highly-ranked Khalifa University o ers fully accredited degrees to all nationalities through its 3 academic colleges, 15 Bachelor’s, 23 Master’s and 6 PhD programs, o ering plenty of opportunities for students to explore their interests and learn from award-winning teachers.

The highly-ranked Khalifa University offers fully accredited degrees to all nationalities through its 3 academic colleges, 16 Bachelor’s, 21 Master’s and PhD programs covering 19 fields, offering plenty of opportunities for students to explore their interests and learn from award-winning faculty.

As Abu Dhabi’s research-intensive university, Khalifa University gives students a chance to study in-depth with expert faculty and researchers on the leading-edge of discovery in science, engineering, and medicine to solve real-world problems. Our students help develop cleaner energy, ﬁnd new ways to produce water sustainably, create smarter diagnostic tools, and discover better ways to use AI to make data insightful.

As Abu Dhabi’s research and enterprise-intensive institution, Khalifa University provides avenues for in-depth learning with expert faculty and researchers on the leading-edge of discovery in science, engineering, and medicine to solve real-world challenges. Our students help develop clean energy, find new ways to produce water sustainably, create smarter diagnostic tools, and discover better ways to use AI and make data insightful.

Study beside our award-winning faculty and help deliver real solutions, transform lives, and change the world.

Join with our faculty and researchers to help deliver meaningful solutions and transform lives.