Latest news with #KACST
Zawya
17 hours ago
- Automotive
- Zawya
KACST, OSP, and CEER collaborate to advance innovative graphene production technology for next-generation batteries
Riyadh, Saudi Arabia – The OSP, an ambitious program under the energy ecosystem in Saudi Arabia, King Abdulaziz City for Science and Technology (KACST), the Kingdom's national laboratory for research and innovation; and CEER, Saudi Arabia's first electric vehicle (EV) brand and Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM), announced today the signing of a trilateral agreement to collaborate on research to advance graphene production technologies and promote the use of locally produced materials in batteries. The signing ceremony took place at KACST headquarters in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. The agreement establishes a framework for joint research, knowledge exchange, and human capital development focused on graphene, a revolutionary material known for its exceptional strength, lightness, and conductivity. The collaboration aims to produce high-value graphene from low-value petroleum coke, leveraging advanced electrochemical technologies to create cost-effective, sustainable solutions that support the development of future battery technologies. This reflects a shared commitment to advancing cutting-edge research that contributes to a more sustainable and competitive future for Saudi Arabia's automotive industry. Mohammad Al Tayyar – OSP Director commented, "Today marks a significant milestone in our journey towards innovation and sustainability. By collaborating with KACST and CEER on graphene research and utilization, we are not only harnessing the potential of advanced materials but also paving the way for a more sustainable automotive industry and supporting environmental and economic efficiency of hydrocarbon materials. This partnership reflects our shared commitment to supporting Saudi Vision 2030 and advancing the Kingdom's position as a leader in technology and innovation." Dr. Talal bin Ahmed Al-Sudairy, Senior Vice President for Research and Development at KACST, clarified that the collaboration supports KACST's efforts as a national laboratory and innovation park by turning applied research into economic value. He indicated that the collaboration contributes to maximizing revenues generated from oil production, developing national capabilities, and localizing technologies that support the sustainable transportation sector. James DeLuca, CEER CEO commented on the importance of the agreement signing saying, "Our partnership with OSP and KACST is a vital step in fostering innovation within the Saudi automotive sector. By collaborating on graphene research, we are contributing to the advancement of technology in the Kingdom and supporting its Vision 2030 goals of economic diversification and sustainable development. CEER is committed to investing in research that will benefit the entire industry and drive the future of mobility in Saudi Arabia." This strategic collaboration aims to drive research and technological innovation, supporting the Kingdom's Vision 2030 goals of economic diversification and environmental sustainability.
Asharq Al-Awsat
3 days ago
- Science
- Asharq Al-Awsat
GRI Enrichment Program Kicks Off at KACST to Nurture Gifted Students
The Generation Research and Innovation Enrichment Program (GRI Enrichment Program) 2025 was launched at King Abdulaziz City for Science and Technology (KACST), bringing together over 90 talented male and female students from across the Kingdom. Organized by KACST through Academy 32, in cooperation with the King Abdulaziz and His Companions Foundation for Giftedness and Creativity (Mawhiba), the program aims to foster a culture of research, development, and innovation among gifted students by introducing them to the fundamentals and importance of scientific research. It connects participants with leading research centers and specialists, enhances their skills through practical training, and encourages them to contribute to enriching local content in the fields of science and innovation, SPA reported. During the opening ceremony, Academy 32 CEO Dr. Amani Al-Shawi highlighted the program's role in nurturing emerging talent and preparing students for participation in local, regional, and international competitions. She pointed to recent achievements, including the success of Saudi students at the International Science and Engineering Fair (ISEF 2025) and their winning of over 12 gold and silver medals at the International Invention, Innovation & Technology Exhibition (ITEX 2025) in Malaysia. Al-Shawi urged participants to take full advantage of the research infrastructure available at the National Laboratory and the Innovation Oasis at KACST, stressing the importance of continuous learning, development, and scientific exploration to support national goals in research and innovation.
Finextra
30-05-2025
- Business
- Finextra
Saudi academics create world's fastest quantum random number generator
Research scientists at Saudi Arabia's King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST) and King Abdulaziz City for Science and Technology (KACST) have reported the fastest quantum random number generator (QRNG) to date based on international benchmarks. 0 This content has been selected, created and edited by the Finextra editorial team based upon its relevance and interest to our community. KAUST and KACST claim that their new quantum random number generator (QRNG) is almost 1000 times faster than other generators and much smaller. This announcement is revolutionary for data management and cybersecurity across the financial services industry because random number generators are crucial for industries relying on security because they provide the foundation for cryptographic keys, which are used to encrypt and secure data. These keys ensure the confidentiality, integrity, and authenticity of sensitive information, making random number generators essential for securing online transactions, communications, and data storage. However, the random number generators currently used are vulnerable because of an intrinsic flaw in their design. KAUST Professor Boon Ooi, who led the study, explains that "most random number generators are 'pseudo random number generators'. In other words, they seem random, but in reality, they are complicated algorithms that can be solved. QRNGs do not suffer from this concern." QRNG use quantum mechanics to produce a truly unpredictable random number and the innovation led by scientists at these Saudi universities focused on the fabrication and the post-processing algorithms of the device. The QRNG dubbed the world's fastest was constructed using micro-LEDs (light emitting diodes) less than a few micrometers in size. This reduces their energy demands and suggests the QRNG are portable, expanding their potential use cases. In addition to this, the National Institute of Standards and Technology is recognised for providing benchmarks to ascertain the quality of randomness. Dr. Abdullah Almogbel, a contributor of the study who is also a researcher at the Microelectronics and Semiconductors Institute and director of the Center of Excellence for Solid-State Lighting at KACST, says: "KACST, in its capacity as the national laboratory, is committed to advancing applied research that directly supports the objectives of Saudi Arabia's Vision 2030—particularly in establishing global leadership across strategic sectors, including quantum-enabled innovations. Undertaking such research initiatives is expected to generate substantial value for a wide range of industries and further solidify their global standing."
Leaders
28-05-2025
- Science
- Leaders
KAUST, KACST Set New Benchmark in Data Security with Quantum Innovation
A collaborative team of scientists from King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST) and King Abdulaziz City for Science and Technology (KACST) has achieved a groundbreaking milestone in data security. The researchers have developed the world's fastest quantum random number generator (QRNG), according to international performance standards. QRNG In a statement from KAUST, the university announced that their QRNG successfully passed the rigorous randomness tests set by the U.S. National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST). The device generates random numbers at speeds nearly 1,000 times faster than existing QRNGs. 'This marks a major breakthrough for industries that rely on robust data security,' said Professor Boon Ooi of KAUST, lead author of the study published in Optics Express . Random number generators are essential for secure applications in sectors like healthcare, finance, and defense. However, conventional systems often rely on 'pseudo-random' algorithms — complex but ultimately predictable computations. In contrast, QRNGs use quantum mechanics to generate truly random numbers, making them inherently more secure. 'Unlike traditional systems, quantum random number generators don't just appear random — they are fundamentally unpredictable due to their quantum basis,' explained Professor Ooi. The team's record-setting performance was made possible by innovative advances in both device fabrication and post-processing algorithms. Their QRNG utilizes ultra-small micro-LEDs — only a few micrometers in size — which significantly lower power consumption and enhance portability, enabling broader deployment across various technologies. Dr. Abdullah Almogbel, a contributing researcher from KACST's Microelectronics and Semiconductors Institute and Director of the Center of Excellence for Solid-State Lighting, emphasized the project's alignment with Saudi Arabia's Vision 2030. KAUST 'KACST is dedicated to advancing applied research that supports national goals, especially in positioning the Kingdom as a global leader in strategic fields like quantum-enabled technologies,' said Almogbel. 'Research like this has the potential to deliver high value across multiple industries and enhance Saudi Arabia's global competitiveness.' National Institute of Standard and Technology (NIST), an internationally recognized authority in measurement standards, sets the benchmarks used to validate the quality and integrity of random number generators. Related Topics: Higher Education: Saudi Arabia's Emergence as Global Destination Saudi Students Organize Qur'an Competitions in UK Saudi Women in the Workforce: How Does the Kingdom achieve real Empowerment? International Mining Conference to Host Global Geological Survey Leaders in Jan. Short link : Post Views: 8
Asharq Al-Awsat
28-05-2025
- Business
- Asharq Al-Awsat
Saudi Research Institutes Achieve Record-Breaking Performance in Data Security
A joint team of researchers led by scientists at Saudi Arabia's King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST) and King Abdulaziz City for Science and Technology (KACST) reported the fastest quantum random number generator (QRNG) to date based on international benchmarks. The QRNG, which passed the required randomness tests of the National Institute of Standards and Technology, could produce random numbers at a rate nearly a thousand times faster than other QRNG, said KAUST in a statement on Tuesday. 'This is a significant leap for any industry that depends on strong data security,' said KAUST Professor Boon Ooi, who led the study, published in Optics Express. According to the statement, random number generators are critical for industries that depend on security, such as health, finance, and defense. But the random number generators currently used are vulnerable because of an intrinsic flaw in their design. 'Most random number generators are 'pseudo random number generators.' In other words, they seem random, but in reality, they are complicated algorithms that can be solved. QRNGs do not suffer from this concern,' explained Ooi. The reason is that QRNG use the principles of quantum mechanics to produce a truly unpredictable random number. The high random number generation rate reported in the new study was the result of innovations made by the scientists in the fabrication and the post-processing algorithms of the device. The QRNG was constructed using micro-LEDs (light emitting diodes) less than a few micrometers in size, which reduces their energy demands and suggests the QRNG are portable, expanding the types of applications. 'KACST, in its capacity as the national laboratory, is committed to advancing applied research that directly supports the objectives of Saudi Arabia's Vision 2030, particularly in establishing global leadership across strategic sectors, including quantum-enabled innovations,' said study contributor, Microelectronics and Semiconductors Institute researcher, and KACST Center of Excellence for Solid-State Lighting director Dr. Abdullah Almogbel. 'Undertaking such research initiatives is expected to generate substantial value for a wide range of industries and further solidify their global standing,' he added. The National Institute of Standards and Technology is recognized internationally for providing benchmarks to ascertain the quality of randomness.
