About KAUST


Established in 2009, King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST) is a graduate research university devoted to finding solutions for some of the most pressing scientific and technological challenges in the world as well as Saudi Arabia in the areas of food and health, water, energy, environment, and the digital domain. KAUST is a curiosity-driven, interdisciplinary-problem-solving environment with state-of-the-art labs, dedicated faculty and talented students and researchers. KAUST brings together the best minds from around the world to advance research. More than 120 different nationalities live, work and study on campus. KAUST is also a catalyst for innovation, economic development and social prosperity, with research resulting in novel patents and products, enterprising startups, regional and global initiatives, and collaboration with other academic institutions, industries and Saudi agencies. 

KAUST research areas

Scientists and engineers at KAUST aim to address global challenges by focusing research efforts on topics related to water, food, energy and the environment. By offering expertise in 20 research areas related to these broad topics, the U​niversity creates a collaborative and interdisciplinary problem-solving environment.


KAUST Programs and Research centers

KAUST invest in major projects and provide thematic focus and critical mass to pursue goal-oriented research that addresses significant challenges for the Kingdom and the world. They invigorate graduate education by fostering creative and problem-solving approaches in an interdisciplinary, team-based environment. They also serve as hubs for engagement in the corporate world.​

Electrical and Computer Engineering program

The KAUST program in Electrical and Computer Engineering (ECE) combines collaborative inquiry with state-of-the-art experimental labs, advanced nanofabrication and characterization labs and, supercomputing and visualization facilities to provide a stimulating and challenging environment for researchers and graduate students alike.

As an independent and merit-based institution, and one of the best-endowed universities in the world, KAUST intends to become a significant new contributor to the global network of collaborative research. In line with this mission, the ECE program emphasizes research in science and technology applications to solve problems that impact social advancement, economic development and the quality of everyday life worldwide.