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Khalifa University CMHS Showcasing Range of Healthcare and Life Sciences Research at Arab Health 2024

Virtual Tour of Region’s First Body Museum, Flexible Hydrogel Base Electrode, 3D Printed Prototype of Knee Component, and 3D Bioprinter Enthrall Visitors and Guests   

 

A diverse range of healthcare and life sciences research projects including a startup from Khalifa University’s College of Medicine and Health Sciences (CMHS) were featured at Arab Health 2024, the 49th edition of the leading medical equipment exhibition in the Middle East.   

 

Khalifa University presented a flexible hydrogel base electrode that can record electrophysiology signals, a novel 3D printed prototype of human knee femoral component, and a custom, easy-to-use, air pressure-powered, single-nozzle frugal 3D bio-printer capable of fabricating artificial tissues and organoids in the lab that can also be used in research. In addition, Swift Biomed, a startup from Khalifa Innovation Center (KIC) that aims to develop compact, portable and rapid diagnostics devices for detection of infectious diseases, was showcased at the event. Also at the stand was a virtual tour of the Body Museum by Body Worlds, which explores how disease and aging affect the human body.

 

Dr. Habiba Alsafar, Dean, Khalifa University College of Medicine and Health Sciences, and Professor, Biomedical Engineering and Biotechnology, said: “Our projects on display at Arab Health 2024 stand testimony to the innovative research in medicine and life sciences, and biotechnology that highlight the advancements in UAE’s established and growing healthcare ecosystem to transform patient care and diagnostics. The products that we bring to the market also testify Khalifa University’s commitment to encourage healthcare startups and promote avenues that assist in healthy aging.”

 

A virtual tour of the Body Museum at Khalifa University’s CMHS, the UAE’s first permanent exposition of ‘plastinated’ and dissected human bodies, also inspired medicine, health, and life sciences among students, young professionals, and visitors. The virtual tour shed light on the effects of lifestyle diseases and pathological processes on human organs. This promotes awareness amongst both young and old alike to adopt healthier lifestyles and make choices that safeguard their well-being.

 

The projects on display at Arab Health 2024 illustrated the advanced academic, healthcare, and life sciences endeavors at Khalifa University. The flexible hydrogel base electrode that can record electrophysiology signals, provides precise monitoring and analysis of the body’s electrical signals through natural material instead of metal electrodes, benefiting the environment and society. This device’s biocompatibility improves patient wellbeing and quality of life, while providing the basis for next-generation wearables and noninvasive technologies.

 

Another project, the novel 3D printed prototype of the human knee femoral component, transforms knee replacement surgery offering greater mobility, comfort, and longevity. These individualized knee implants alleviate pain and restores activity positively impacting patients’ lives.

 

The custom, easy-to-use, air pressure-powered, single-nozzle frugal 3D bio-printer is capable of fabricating artificial tissues and organoids in the lab that can also be used in research. This bioprinter that fabricates creates three-dimensional living tissue structures by depositing cells layer-by-layer, facilitating gentle and accurate printing for optimal cell viability.

 

The Khalifa Innovation Center (KIC) startup, Swift Biomed, aims to develop compact, portable and rapid diagnostics devices for detection of infectious diseases like COVID-19, Malaria, Tuberculosis and other biological testing.

 

Khalifa University’s CMHS is the only graduate program modeled after the North American system with 266 PubMed papers and has received the UAE’s first dual US accreditation for its Simulation Center. The MD program is offered in five curricular strands including Biomedical Science, Clinical Medicine, Medicine and Society, Physicianship, Research, Technology, and Innovation. Its Balsam community-based program claimed the QS Reimagine Education ‘Gold’ award in 2023. The CMHS is equipped with Research Labs, Dry Labs, Imaging Center, Instructional Studio, Preparation Room, Webinar Room, and Anatomical Pathology Lab.

 

Alisha Roy
Science Writer
7 February 2024

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New Algorithm to Predict Hydrogen Storage Underground 

New model harnesses machine learning to efficiently predict hydrogen adsorption in shale gas formations, will save significant time in planning underground hydrogen storage

 

Hydrogen is a promising clean fuel alternative, but its storage poses problems for large-scale use. There is potential for underground hydrogen storage, but researchers need to be able to predict how much it is possible to store in various locations. To make this process quicker and more accurate, a team of researchers including Khalifa University’s Dr. Shams Kalam, Postdoctoral Fellow, and Dr. Muhammad Arif, Assistant Professor, developed a mathematical equation to predict hydrogen adsorption in shale. Drs. Kalam and Arif collaborated with researchers from King Fahd University of Petroleum and Minerals, Saudi Arabia; and University Teknologi Petronas, Malaysia. 

Their results were published in the International Journal of Coal Geology, a top 1% journal for stratigraphy. 

 

“Hydrogen has seen remarkable interest lately from the global energy community as a clean fuel,” Dr. Kalam says. “It is an abundant and renewable energy carrier, addresses future low-carbon requirements, reduces dependence on hydrocarbons, and provides both environmental and strategic advantages. Its use requires storage, and we can store hydrogen underground.”

 

One of the key strategies in harnessing hydrogen’s potential is underground storage in sedimentary formations — in depleted hydrocarbon reservoirs, aquifers, and even decommissioned wellbores. However, challenges persist. Hydrogen is highly compressible and volatile, demanding large storage volumes and raising concerns about leakage and safety.

 

The researchers point out that while coal bed methane and shale gas reservoirs have traditionally been exploited for natural gas production, they can also be used to store hydrogen. Shale in particular offers high adsorption rates even at low temperatures, and therefore could store large volumes of hydrogen via adsorption trapping in a safe manner. 

 

Almost 32 percent of global natural gas reserves are shale, which is composed of layers of sedimentary rock and organic material known as kerogen. They could be the ideal storage places for large volumes of hydrogen (though the limitations do exist in terms of injectivity of hydrogen in these formations), but predicting hydrogen adsorption in these formations is a complex and time-consuming task, involving detailed laboratory experiments and molecular simulations. 

 

The research team’s new data-driven model uses gradient boosting regression and data from previous studies to predict hydrogen adsorption on kerogen in shales. The model is informed by various parameters like pressure, temperature, and kerogen density, and offers a quick and accurate estimation of hydrogen adsorption in a potential site. The model was compared with other machine learning methods and proved to be the most accurate, especially for different types of shale.

 

“Machine learning has been extensively applied to develop a model for the prediction of different processes and mechanisms, but less attention has been given to modeling the adsorption of hydrogen in shale for an easy and accurate estimation,” Dr. Kalam says. 

 

While this model is a significant advancement, it’s important to note that it’s just one piece of the larger puzzle. Other factors like diffusivity, permeability, and geo-mechanical characteristics also play a crucial role in the effective underground storage of hydrogen. Future research in these areas is essential to fully unlock the potential of hydrogen storage in shale formations.

 

Jade Sterling
Science Writer
7 February 2024

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Khalifa University and ELT Group Sign MoU to Establish Center of Excellence in Electromagnetic Spectrum Applications in Abu Dhabi

Latest Generation of Electromagnetic Spectrum Equipment Simulated Allowing Khalifa University Students to Apply in Research Studies

 

The ELT group and Khalifa University of Science and Technology today announced they have signed an MOU (Memorandum of Understanding) to expand the knowledge of the management of the Electromagnetic Spectrum in the UAE.

 

The MoU was signed by Dr. Ebrahim Al Hajri, Senior Vice‐President, Support Services, Khalifa University, and Paolo Izzo, Senior Vice‐President, Chief Sales Officer, ELT Group.

 

The main objectives of this cooperation will be the collaboration in the areas of academic research and teaching, in accordance with Khalifa University’s mandate, in the field of EMS Electromagnetic Spectrum (EMS) Application, with a view to enhance the skills and knowledge of human capital at Khalifa University and within the UAE. The EMS application Centre of excellence will be a digital laboratory gymnasium where the latest generation of electromagnetic spectrum equipment are simulated allowing Khalifa University students to apply it to their studies.

Dr. Ebrahim Al Hajri, SVP, Support Services, and Associate Professor, Mechanical and Nuclear Engineering, Khalifa University, said: “We are delighted to partner with the ELT Group in establishing the Center of Excellence for the Electro-Magnetic Spectrum Applications (EMSA) at Khalifa University. Khalifa University within its faculty, has considerable specialist experience in this area. We believe this MoU will pave the way further to expand our activities and associated programs, and develop our laboratory capabilities through state-of-the-art equipment available to students and researchers.”

 

Enzo Benigni, President and CEO, ELT Group, said: “ It is my pleasure to sign this Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with Khalifa University of Science and Technology in order to establish a Center of Excellence for the Electro-Magnetic Spectrum Application. I’m deeply impressed by this exceptional establishment in Abu Dhabi, distinguished by its world-class facilities. Its firm commitment to innovation is pivotal in transforming both Abu Dhabi and the United Arab Emirates into leading innovation hubs of ingenuity and progress. The signature of Memorandum of Understanding is a concrete sign of our intent to impart our 70 years of experience to new generations of Emirati engineers. Khalifa University students will have access to a digital laboratory gymnasium where the latest generation of electromagnetic spectrum equipment are simulated, enabling them to excel in the marketplace related to EMS application, with advanced academic and practical certification paths.”

 

ELT Group has a long history of collaboration with the United Arab Emirates established in the early 1990s when it started offering cutting-edge products across the fields of Electronic Warfare (EW) to support the country’s defense capabilities. The company’s presence in the country for over 40 years has contributed to the growth of technologies and skills actively cooperating with the Armed Forces. 

 

The signing of this MoU is an opportunity for ELT to enrich Khalifa University engineers capabilities in the area of Electromagnetic Spectrum applications, to enhance the ingenuity and the progress of Khalifa University noticeable as a world-class leading innovation hub.

 

Globally-ranked Khalifa University excels in research and innovation in ESMA with researchers making progress towards a new way of generating terahertz radiation at room temperature, which could be useful for detecting toxic gases, explosives, and even diseases.

 

In another significant achievement, a Khalifa University researcher recently received the Young Scientist Award from the Union Radio-Scientifique Internationale during the 35th General Assembly and Scientific Symposium (URSI GASS) 2023 for her work on the significance of kappa distributed electrons, on electrostatic solitary waves (ESW) in the magnetosphere of planet Saturn. The award recognizes young individuals – less than 35 years of age – who have made innovative contributions and discoveries in multidisciplinary research related to radio science, which is the study of all aspects of electromagnetic fields and waves.

 

 

Clarence Michael
English Editor – Specialist
7 February 2024

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Khalifa University’s Fifth Cohort of National Service and Reserve Authority Al Nokhba Students Graduate

Graduates Worked on Projects in Aerospace, Smart Robotics Systems, Data Science, Biotechnology, Advanced Water Technologies, Information and Communications, and Nuclear Energy

 

Khalifa University of Science and Technology today announced the fifth cohort of National Service and Reserve Authority (NSRA) recruits received their graduation honors after successfully concluding their intense months-long training in the research and development of advanced sustainable technologies, building foundational knowledge and hands-on skills in the fields of robotics, smart systems, communications, environment, and energy. 

 

The graduation ceremony was attended by Brigadier Khalifa Hamad Khalifa Al Kaabi, Chief, National Service and Reserve Authority, Professor Sir John O’Reilly, President, Khalifa University, senior officials from NSRA, Khalifa University leadership, as well as dignitaries and guests.

 

Dr. Arif Sultan Al Hammadi, Executive Vice-President, Khalifa University, said: “Khalifa University is proud to graduate the NSRA students and we congratulate them for their success and achievements. This graduation ceremony and the Al Nokhba program reflect the expanding cooperation between Khalifa University and the NSRA in academic, scientific and research areas. We believe the Al Nkhba graduates will be able to effectively apply technical, theoretical and practical solutions based on the latest technologies, for the benefit of the UAE, and the community in general.”

 

Khalifa University’s unique Al Nokhba program launched in partnership with the NSRA in 2019 has graduated many students with their contributions being expected to support decision-making and enhance performance efficiency in the UAE defense sector. During their program the Al Nokhba students completed their training courses, research projects and specific assignments, serving a dual purpose – building technical know-how, and serving as building blocks towards the assigned research and development tasks.

 

With support from Khalifa University faculty and staff, the Al Nokhba recruits worked on finding sustainable solutions to pressing environmental and societal challenges through their innovative projects which includes waste heat utilization, wheat landraces for sustainable food production, quantum-inspired algorithms for nuclear reactor physics, multimodal data analysis, and additive manufacturing of energy-absorbing plate lattice structures. 

 

The graduates also developed technologies such as a 6U CubeSat technology demonstrator, smart membranes for water treatment, and upcycling of bio-wastes into sustainable materials. During the program, the Al Nokhba recruits actively engaged in research and development, while also creating solutions for the Maritime Grand Challenge 2024, representing the UAE and Khalifa University.

 

Moreover, the Al Nokhba recruits contributed to several R&D projects in autonomous driving including the resilient coordinated management of autonomous vehicles for defense applications. The development of a target drone to be used in training and testing for civilian and defense applications was also one of the projects undertaken by the fifth cohort of the Al Nokhba Program.

 

Other projects that the Al Nokhba recruits completed at Khalifa University include the ‘Trustworthy Traceability, Certification and Compliance of the Use and Origins of UAVs’ and Keratin-based hydrogels for the removal of heavy metals in produced wastewater. In February 2023, a group of UAE National Service Recruits (Al Nokhba-NSRs) presented several advanced technology defense-related innovations in robotics and drones that were showcased at the 16th edition of IDEX 2023.

 

The Al Nokhba program aims to prepare recruits for postgraduate studies by providing the participants with relevant coursework, and helps to strengthen the technical capabilities of UAE national engineers. It also enables representation of the UAE in international competitions, involvement in scientific research and publishing research findings at scientific forums. On the other hand, the research-intensive Elite program, which is focused on developing solutions to current challenges, targets university students, especially those graduating from the top universities in the world. Participants are allowed to take a subject from accredited graduate programs if they meet admission requirements. 

 

Clarence Michael
English Editor – Specialist
5 February 2024

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Khalifa University Century Challenge, Region’s Largest, Attracts More Than 1,500 Cyclists

New Route from Dubai and Twin Starting Points Mark Khalifa University Century Challenge 2024

 

Khalifa University of Science and Technology and the Abu Dhabi Cycling Club (ADCC) today announced that more than 1,500 entered the third edition of the Khalifa University Century Challenge 2024, the largest in the region, with twin starting points – Abu Dhabi for (190km), and the new route from Dubai (175km).

 

Open to anyone from the region and beyond, the Challenge participants set off in four groups from the Khalifa University Main Campus in Abu Dhabi, and Al Qudra track in Dubai to the Jebel Hafeet summit in Al Ain for a grand finish. For the first time, the Dubai route added a new dimension to the Khalifa University Century Challenge 2024. 

 

The Challenge was organized to raise awareness on cycling in the community, encouraging everyone to participate in sport competitions and activities that help build a healthy lifestyle. The twin cycling routes for the Challenge also highlighted the UAE’s advanced infrastructure for cycling, providing a memorable ride across the country’s diverse terrain.

 

The 190/175km routes for the third Khalifa University Century Challenge represented the highest level of physical challenges and the capacity to pedal-up mountainous areas. It is a test for endurance, mentally and physically, and demands discipline and determination to cross the finish line.

 

Dr. Arif Sultan Al Hammadi, Executive Vice-President, Khalifa University, said: “We are proud to organize this sporting event with the Abu Dhabi Sports Council and and the Abu Dhabi Cycling Club for the third year in a row, with a greater number of cycling enthusiasts joining the Challenge, demonstrating a continuing spread of awareness on cycling in the UAE community. The Khalifa University Century Challenge 2024 comes in line with our commitment to encourage everyone to participate in challenges and activities that help build a healthy lifestyle through sports.”

 

AlNekhaira Alkhyeli, CEO, Abu Dhabi Cycling Club, expressed his satisfaction at holding the challenge for the third year in a row, as well as the new start from Dubai for the first time, which adds more challenge and fun to the event.

 

He stressed that the large turnout of participants this year reflects the great increase in enthusiasts and cyclists in the UAE and confirms the extent of awareness of its importance for all members of society as it is a sport and an easy means of transportation, which benefits everyone, contributes to maintaining a healthy lifestyle, and maintains the environment.

 

AlNekhaira Alkhyeli explained that the Abu Dhabi Cycling Club is always available to organize races, challenges, and community rides, in support of enthusiasts of this sport.

 

In line with safety regulations, ADCC organized police patrols along the routes, allocating four feed stations, along with neutral support vehicles carrying water and nutrition, in addition to providing ambulance and support vehicles, as well as other logistics services by the Abu Dhabi Police, and the Department of Municipalities and Transport (DMT).

 

Alisha Roy
Science Writer
3 February 2024

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Khalifa University Partners with German Universities and German Emirati Institute to Host Workshop on Research and Joint IPs

Event Co-Hosted by RWTH Aachen University, TUM Technical University of Munich, University of Applied Sciences Wildau, University of Applied Sciences Aachen, and Brandenburg University of Technology

 

Khalifa University of Science and Technology today announced it is joining with five German universities to host a workshop under the auspices of the German Emirati Institute (GEI) Technologies 4.0 to jointly identify and execute research projects mutually beneficial to the UAE and Germany. The workshop will also focus on creating joint IPs and products, while seeking ways to expand academic cooperation.

 

The two-day workshop, cohosted by Germany’s RWTH Aachen University, TUM Technical University of Munich, Technical University of Applied Sciences Wildau, University of Applied Sciences Aachen, and Brandenburg University of Technology, will be held at Khalifa University Main Campus from 29-30 January. The workshop will offer an opportunity to utilize the skills of the participants to develop the most innovative products for the global market, enhance a new skill set, and thus create innovative jobs for the future.

 

Professor Sir John O’Reilly, President, Khalifa University, said: “We are delighted to partner with these five German universities to host this important workshop that will pave way for collaboration with German academia and industry for the mutual and external community benefits. Khalifa University is strongly committed to not only research and innovation and taking it forward through commercialization to the benefit of the economy and society. Critically important for this is a culture of enterprise, recognizing the importance of Intellect and Property and realizing the opportunity it brings. We believe this workshop in bringing together Khalifa University with these partner German universities will enable us to identify and draw together our strengths in research, innovation, and enterprise to mutual benefit,   as the  cornerstone of this collaboration.” 

 

Bernhard Randerath, CEO German Emirati Institute, said: “The German Emirati Institute is proud to coordinate the cooperation between the Khalifa University and five selected top leading Universities in Germany. This is a substantial milestone of an upcoming strong partnership to establish new research projects and to jointly develop IPs in the field of new Technologies 4.0. The cooperation also promotes to extend a collaboration with leading industries to develop outstanding sustainable 4.0 products. This approach is as well largely based on the multidisciplinary training and education of Young Professionals between Germany and the UAE.” 

 

The workshop will include six working groups focusing on Lightweight Design and Production, Additive Manufacturing, AI Processor and Chip Development, Advanced Power and Energy, Biotechnology, as well as Strategy Research and Academia Entrepreneurship. The working groups will be led by faculty from Khalifa University and the German universities.

 

Based on the results of the discussions at the workshop, the next steps to define an action and project plan will be jointly determined. The GEI plays the vital role in supporting the identification of partners (industry, institutes, or universities), in bringing together the financial resources including government funding, industry’s own contribution and from investors, as well as in project management.

 

Clarence Michael
English Editor – Specialist
30 January 2024

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Harnessing Microwave Plasma Technology for CO2 Conversion

Plasma technology offers a novel approach to converting CO2 into major projects, but designing plasma reactors requires a comprehensive understanding of plasma parameters.  

 

As carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions continue to rise around the world, innovative technologies for mitigation are in high demand. Carbon capture and utilization technologies aim to convert carbon dioxide into fuel and other valuable chemicals and a research team including Khalifa University’s Prof. Pau Loke Show is exploring the potential of microwave plasma technology for CO2 conversion. 

 

The team simulated a microwave plasma reactor model to analyze various plasma parameters, providing critical insights into optimizing this technology for practical applications. They investigated key plasma parameters such as electron potential, density, and temperature at different pressures over time. The study revealed that while electron density eventually stabilized, the electron temperature and potential showed varied behaviors. This information is crucial for designing effective plasma reactors, especially for CO2 conversion.

 

Prof. Show collaborated with researchers from Universiti Tenanga Nasional, Malaysia; Nanyant Technological University, Singapore; and Central Queensland University, Australia. Their results were published in Applied Energy, a top 1% journal for engineering and environmental science. 

 

“Carbon dioxide mitigation is of utmost importance,” Prof. Show says. “Numerous renewable energy technologies have been developed to do this and conversion using plasma is an emerging technology attracting increasing interest.”

 

Plasma is often called the “fourth state of matter” after solid, liquid, and gas. When gas is sufficiently heated, the molecules get more energetic and excitable, moving around more and more freely. At a high enough temperature, the atoms themselves will break apart, with electrons separating from their nuclei, leaving behind charged particles known as ions amid a swirl of electrons. This is plasma.

 

When other gases (such as carbon dioxide) interact with plasma, a chemical reaction occurs. 

 

“This chemical reaction takes place in a plasma reactor,” Prof. Show explains. “Most plasma reactors comprise a pair of electrodes that create an electric discharge. This then energizes the electrons in the gas molecules, which causes them to travel incredibly quickly and bump into other gas molecules. As a result, they are broken down into atoms.”

 

Plasma conversion facilitates chemical reactions under milder conditions compared with traditional methods, and microwave plasma takes this a step further. Unlike other methods, which often require high temperatures, microwave plasma generates non-equilibrium (or cold) plasma and operates effectively at low or atmospheric pressure, making it safer and more energy-efficient. It uses microwaves to energize electrons in gas molecules, leading to the breakdown of CO2 with higher ionization power. This aspect is crucial for maintaining the structural integrity of certain compounds that might degrade under high heat, allowing for greater flexibility and control in the conversion process and selectivity in producing desired end products. 

 

However, despite its promising aspects, microwave plasma technology faces challenges, particularly in adapting it for industrial-scale applications. The research team developed a model to simulate plasma parameters to help design plasma reactors for CO2 conversion. They highlight that exploring different gas inlets, pressures and the inclusion of catalysts in the plasma reactors could further optimize CO2 conversion and advocate for future research to focus on enhancing adaptability and efficiency. Expanding the application of microwave plasma to produce materials like graphene and industrial diamonds could also open new avenues for this technology. 

 

Jade Sterling
Science Writer
26 January 2024

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Khalifa University Partners with Italian Embassy to Host Workshop on Space Collaboration between UAE and Italy

Italian Space Day Anniversary Celebrations Include Experts from UAE Space Agency, MBRSC, Italian Space Agency ASI and Thales Alenia 

 

Khalifa University of Science and Technology and the Italian Embassy in Abu Dhabi today announced they will be organizing a workshop on current and potential space collaborations between Italy and the UAE, especially with the scientific and space centers of Italy. 

 

The workshop is being organized on 25 January at the Khalifa University Main Campus to celebrate the Italian Space Day anniversary. It will focus on ongoing collaborations between the Italian Space Agency (ASI) with the United Arab Emirates Space Agency (UAESA), Emirates Mission to the Asteroid belt (EMA), and illustrate the projects by Mohammad Bin Rashid Space Centre (MBRSC), ASI and Thales Alenia Space (TAS) aimed at lunar exploration. A special session will focus on catching up with the most recent scientific discoveries, from faraway cosmology to nearby planetology space projects. 

 

His Excellency Lorenzo Fanara, Ambassador of Italy to the UAE will address the gathering. Others who will offer their perspectives include Dr. Alsaeed Noora, Space Research Scientist, UAE Space Agency, UAESA, Dr. Raponi Andrea, Italian National Institute for Astrophysics, Dr. Almarzooqi Hamad, Mohammad Bin Rashid Space Centre, MBRSC, and Dr. Vincenzo Giorgio, Thales Alenia Space.

 

Professor Sir John O’Reilly, President, Khalifa University, said: “We are delighted to partner with the Italian Embassy and other UAE and Italian stakeholders to host this workshop. Khalifa University hosts two research centers dedicated to space science and technologies to drive innovation. The University has launched two CubeSats into space and has collaborated with other stakeholders such as the UAE Space Agency for the launch of two more CubeSats. This workshop will highlight various space missions and how they will bring new insights, paving the way for knowledge exchange that will be beneficial to both Emirati and Italian institutions and organizations.” 

 

His Excellency Lorenzo Fanara, Ambassador of Italy to the UAE, said: “I am particularly glad to celebrate the Italian Space Day at Khalifa University, an extraordinary place of learning and innovation that already boasts so many connections with Italian universities, companies, and researchers. Italy and the UAE have a long-standing tradition of cooperation in the space sector and have a great potential to further deepen it. The workshop will offer concrete opportunities to develop this collaboration, bringing together institutions, researchers, and industry representatives.”

 

There will be dedicated sessions on the most recent scientific discoveries, and how Khalifa University is enabling UAE-led space technologies through its research centers. Some of the technologies were developed at the Khalifa University Space Technology and Innovation Center (KUSTIC), which also hosts the YahSat Space Lab, first of its kind in the region, with the capability to design, build and test small satellites. 

 

At the same time, KU Space and Planetary Sciences Center (SPSC) is involved in an unprecedented number of current and prospective national and international space missions. An ongoing joint research program between Khalifa University and the University of Colorado Laboratory for Atmospheric and Space Physics (CU/LASP) analyzes data from the Emirates Mars Mission (EMM).

 

Clarence Michael
English Editor – Specialist
25 January 2024

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Khalifa University Hosts 17th ILP Workshop on Sedimentary Basins

Participating Scientists, Researchers, and Industry Stakeholders Further Enriched by Field Trips to UAE’s Fossil Dunes and Sedimentary Basins 

 

The need for exploring various aspects of crustal evolution through geoscientific approaches, especially through intense study of sedimentary basins, was highlighted during the 17th Workshop of the International Lithosphere Program (ILP) Task Force IV on Sedimentary Basins hosted by Khalifa University in Abu Dhabi.

 

The workshop commenced with the presence of Dr. Arif Sultan Al Hammadi, Honorary Workshop Chair and Executive Vice-President, Khalifa University.

 

Khalifa University researchers presented 10 papers at the workshop, themed ‘Today for Tomorrow’ and aligned with the UAE’s announcement of 2023 as the Year of Sustainability. With 120 attendees, 30 of them for the Sabkha Field Trip, and over 40 participants for the Fujairah and Ras Al Khaima field trips, the programs included over 30 technical presentations and 20 poster presentations. The delegates, who were part of the post-workshop field trip, also visited the ophiolites, metamorphic, and sedimentary successions at Fujairah-Ras Al Khaimah, and Wadi Rahaba that further enriched their understanding of the basins.

 

The event held at the University’s Sas Al Nakhl (SAN) Campus was organized in collaboration with the UAE Ministry of Energy and Infrastructure, the International Lithosphere Program (ILP), the European Association of Geoscientists and Engineers, the Abu Dhabi Convention and Exhibition Bureau, and the ILP, gathering renowned scientists, researchers, students, and industry stakeholders from across the world.

 

Dr. Arif Sultan Al Hammadi commended the Earth Sciences Department for the advancements made. This includes leveraging intelligent systems and machine learning, while combining satellite images with advanced image processing and geospatial analysis, to better detect and map UAE’s archaeological features as well as arid regions.

 

He acknowledged Khalifa University’s development of a cost-effective analysis tool that detects fractures within geological reservoirs, particularly fractured carbonate reservoirs, which holds immense value for the energy industry.

 

In his welcome address, Dr. Mohammad Alsuwaidi, Workshop Chair and Assistant Professor,
Earth Science, highlighted that the participants had an opportunity to gain valuable insights from some of the ancient sedimentary basins of the UAE, especially following the pre-workshop field trip to the carbonate factory at Sabkha- Al Wathba Fossil Dune, Abu Dhabi.

 

The ILP workshops, held annually in distinct geological regions, provides a platform to study sedimentary basins, offering participants the opportunity to explore lithosphere, tectonics and sedimentary processes, diagenesis and fluid/rock interactions. Other themes covered in the workshop included energy, groundwater, geological subsurface storage, geohazards, as well as geo tourism.

 

The workshop also included several presentations on various topics related to applications of geosciences to resolve societal challenges such as natural hazards, energy transition, and environmental issues. 

 

Alisha Roy
Science Writer
24 January 2024

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Khalifa University Researcher Aims to Transform Diabetes Treatment 

Mohammed Nabil’s Research Will Uncover Genetic Mysteries of Diabetes Using Mouse Models 

 

A groundbreaking research aimed at discovering and validating genes associated with diabetes, to facilitate new insights in diagnostic and therapeutic biomarkers, is the focus of a new project by a Khalifa University Research Assistant.

 

Mohammed Nabil, Department of Biomedical Engineering and Biotechnology, has successfully completed a three-month training program at KU Leuven’s Flanders Institute for Biotechnology as part of the Biomedical Science Discovery (BISDI) program. This training follows an earlier agreement between Khalifa University and KU Leuven’s Flanders Institute for Biotechnology. H.E. Mohamed Al Sahlawi, UAE Ambassador to Belgium also visited Nabil at KU Leuven.

 

While at KU Leuven, Nabil actively participated in a project led by PhD students, focusing on identifying the gene responsible for stimulating cancer cells. By conducting research on genetic diseases, and validating on mice, he aims to make significant contributions to the biomedical research landscape in the UAE.

 

At Khalifa University, Nabil also aims to conduct experiments following ethical guidelines, ensuring proper procedures for clear and accurate results, while performing surgical operations and precise dissection of body organs, aiding researchers in utilizing these organs for their studies. Dr. Habiba Alsafar, Dean, College of Medicine and Health Sciences (KU CMHS), and Professor, Biomedical Engineering and Biotechnology, oversees this project, while Dr. Mira Mousa, Post-Doctoral Fellow, served as Nabil’s primary mentor during his time at KU Leuven.

 

Nabil said: “My goals and aspirations are to acquire all the knowledge and skills from the leading experts in the field, and bring it back to the UAE. With this, I am to transfer the knowledge and expertise gained, to scientists in the UAE, and train Khalifa University students to help nurture and educate the future talent in the field. Collaborating with leaders and experts in the field brings me immense joy as I contribute to scientific advancements and engage in the rewarding task of teaching students. My training at KU Leuven in the field of veterinary science ignited my passion for this field. Within this field, we can conduct research on diabetes and perform tests on mice to develop early treatment therapeutic targets and biomarker discovery.”

 

Among other techniques and methodologies acquired in both laboratory and animal facility settings, he learned to perform mouse handling, genotyping for mouse samples, experimental surgery (mouse dissections), and administration of drugs and anesthetic medicines. Additionally, he has been trained on experiments aimed at determining the genetic background of mice and establishing a large colony of genetically modified mice.

 

Nabil added: “In the animal facility, I learned the intricacies of crossbreeding single, double, and triple strains and maintaining a high-quality environment in the animal lab to ensure optimal breeding and experimental outcomes. I am committed to furthering the position of the UAE as a central hub for life science research and empowering the next generation to engage with laboratory animals, thereby contributing significantly to the advancement of scientific knowledge.”

 

ِAlisha Roy
Science Writer
19 January 2024

 

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Khalifa University Showcasing 13 Research Projects and Innovative Startups at UMEX and SimTEX 2024

Stand Features Advanced Robotics, Intelligent Systems, and Breakthrough Digital World Technologies 

 

Khalifa University of Science and Technology today announced it is  showcasing 13 key research projects and innovative startups in breakthrough technologies for a digital world at the sixth edition of the Unmanned Systems Exhibition (UMEX) and Simulation and Training Exhibition (SIMTEX) and the conference.

 

During the exhibitions, Khalifa University is displaying the innovations including firefighting drones, a fleet of heterogeneous robotic systems, flight-lock physically-unclonable function (PUF) shield for chips, field-programmable gate array (FPGA) – based security system, Khalifa University Autonomous Car, aerial drones for precipitation enhancement through cloud measurements and seeding, and an intelligent systems-powered system for threat items detection.

 

Dr. Arif Sultan Al Hammadi, Executive Vice-President, Khalifa University, said: “Khalifa University is delighted to showcase our key innovations at UMEX and SimTEX 2024. Our researchers continue to seek path-breaking solutions in Unmanned Air Vehicles (UAV), Unmanned Ground Vehicles (UGV), Unmanned Underwater Vehicles (UUV), unmanned systems, machine learning, and autonomous vehicle applications. We believe through our participation we highlight the innovative robotics and intelligent systems research that happens at Khalifa University and demonstrate the region’s advances in robotics and intelligent systems to stakeholders.”

 

One of the projects on display is the ‘Ocean Monitoring and Cleaning for Sustainable Marine Ecosystem’, a collaboration between Khalifa University Center for Autonomous Robotic Systems (KUCARS) and the Stanford Robotics Lab, which aims to develop underwater robots capable of monitoring and clearing plastic waste. KUCAR’s marine robots also inspect coral reefs and make aquafarm monitoring and interventions more efficient. 

 

Project ZodiAq, featuring 12 flagella-inspired arms, is a multi-limbed underwater soft drone, centered around employing soft robotics for underwater applications, with a particular focus on locomotion, manipulation, and sensing.

 

The Khalifa University startup, FARMIN, is a smart agriculture platform, which uses near real-time insights from space and leverages satellite imagery, super resolution, and intelligent systems to continuously map entire farm fields and maximize farm production. The FlightLock PUF Shield involves evaluating the functionality of the system and assessing its security, to establish reliable and secure key types for optimal performance and security.

 

The fleet of aerial and marine heterogeneous robotic systems, developed by the KUCARS-BIT joint Team Fly Eagle will compete in the MBZIRC Maritime Grand Challenge 2024. It consists of a fleet of UAVs, 1 USV and 1 Robotic Arm that will focus on ensuring maritime security in the Abu Dhabi coastline.

 

Other projects include aerial drones to improve cloud seeding and address water challenges caused by the dry climate, while a firefighting drone can be used in early-stage façade fires in high rise buildings. Other aerial robots which adapt in real-time to changes in their surrounding environments or changes to their own systems remain crucial for operations in strong winds, changing payloads, GPS-denied environments, and less visibility. This KUCARS project is currently being evolved to serve the market through a start-up, DroneLeaf, at the Khalifa Innovation Center (KIC). 

 

The Houbara robot for behavioral studies in the field and sampling project is the result of a collaboration between KUCARS and the UAE-based International Fund for Houbara Conservation (IFHC), to develop a robot to aid Houbara bird conservation efforts. KUCARS has also collaborated with Technology Innovation Institute (TII) of Abu Dhabi to develop underwater drone swarms for ocean monitoring and inspection of underwater infrastructure.

 

The KU Self Drive Vehicle project which successfully operates a shuttle service at the KU Sas Al Nakhl campus evaluates and develops Autonomous Vehicles (AV) for UAE environments. Another project, the KU SmartEye Tech is an intelligent systems-powered for accurately detecting threat items in X-Ray baggage scans​​, while the FPGA- based security system utilizes an FPGA device to encrypt voice messages and conducts various security analyses. 

 

Serving the UAE healthcare sector is the Mashyah – Motion Assessment Tool involves attaching sensors to individuals to measure and record motion, enabling prognosis assessment and quantification of motion for diagnostics and clinical decision making.

 

Clarence Michael
English Editor – Specialist
23 January 2024

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Khalifa University and Al Barakah Dates Collaborate to Unlock Full Potential of Date Seed Oil Extraction and its Applications

Leveraging Scientific Advancements and Market Insights, the Agreement Drives Sustainable Innovation in the UAE Date Industry 

 

Khalifa University of Science and Technology and UAE’s leading dates packaging and processing company Al Barakah Dates Factory today announced they have signed a collaboration agreement to support research and development activities, and industrial projects, focusing on date seed oil extraction and related areas. The partnership will leverage Khalifa University’s cutting-edge research and scientific innovations, as well as Al Barakah Dates Factory’s global market presence to transform the date palm industry in the UAE.

 

A Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was signed by Professor Sir John O’Reilly, President, Khalifa University, and Yousuf Saleem, Managing Director, Al Barakah Dates, during a ceremony at Khalifa University’s Main Campus. The MoU signing was attended by H.E. Homaid Al Shimmari, Vice Chairman of the Board of Trustees of Khalifa University, and members of the Khalifa University senior management.

 

Professor Sir John O’Reilly, President, Khalifa University said: “Khalifa University’s collaboration with Al Barakah Dates represents a significant step forward in our commitment to sustainable and innovative solutions for the dates industry. By combining Khalifa University’s research expertise with Al Barakah’s industry track record, we aim to drive innovation and make a positive impact in the field and explore new avenues to help contribute to the UAE’s sustainable growth. 

 

Yousuf Saleem, Managing Director, Al Barakah Dates Factory said: “This partnership with Khalifa University is a groundbreaking step for Al Barakah Dates, integrating academic research with industrial application. Our goal is to advance the date seed oil extraction process, making it more efficient and sustainable, thereby opening new markets and applications for this valuable resource. We are excited to see the fruits of this collaboration, which will not only benefit the UAE but also the global dates industry.”

 

Al Barakah Dates processes over 85,000 tonnes of dates and date products annually, equivalent to almost half of the UAE’s entire domestic harvest, contributing to the country’s growing food and agriculture sector. The company also supports global decarbonization efforts with more than 6,500 solar panels at its sustainable facility that offsets 3,000 tonnes emissions per year. 

 

Khalifa University has been actively exploring innovative methods to maximize the potential of date seeds and harness their numerous benefits. Over the years, researchers at Khalifa University have successfully developed multiple processes that can transform date tree waste into valuable products. One significant achievement of their research is the creation of an extraordinary material that combines graphene with sand. This hybrid material has proven to be highly effective in absorbing pollutants from industrial wastewater, making it an environmentally friendly solution for wastewater decontamination. In fact, its adsorption capacity surpasses that of other graphene-based adsorbents, making it a scalable and efficient option. 

 

In addition, the Khalifa University team has made significant strides in another research project. By combining activated carbon derived from date seeds with a nitrogen-containing compound known as polyaniline, they have developed electrodes that offer a sustainable method for the recovery and reuse of metal ions from mining industry wastewater. This process employs the innovative capacitive deionization (CDI) technique. 

 

Furthermore, Khalifa University has achieved significant progress in producing electrodes and catalysts using activated carbon derived from date seeds. These electrodes are essential in the process of converting bio-oil into useful fuels and other value-added products. This innovative research demonstrates that waste can be transformed into valuable resources, thereby contributing to a more sustainable future.

 

Alisha Roy
Science Writer
23 January 2024