In a move reflecting deep appreciation for national talent and outstanding scientific achievements, the King Abdulaziz City for Science and Technology (KACST) honored Professor Omar bin Mounis Yaghi, a prominent Saudi scientist considered one of the leading pioneers of modern chemistry. This recognition comes in appreciation of his revolutionary contributions to the establishment and development of reticular chemistry, a new branch of chemistry that has led to the creation of new classes of materials with promising applications in the fields of clean energy, the environment, and advanced materials.
Scientific background: Retinal chemistry and its applications
Professor Yaghi is internationally renowned for his pioneering research in the design and fabrication of metal-organic frameworks (MOFs) and covalent-organic frameworks (COFs). These materials, constructed by linking organic molecules with metal ions or covalent bonds, are characterized by their ultra-fine porous structure and enormous surface area, giving them unique properties. These innovations have paved the way for impactful practical applications, such as the efficient storage of gases like hydrogen and methane for use as clean fuels, the capture of carbon dioxide from the atmosphere and factories to mitigate global warming, and the development of innovative technologies for harvesting water from the air in desert and arid regions, offering a radical solution to the global water scarcity problem.
The importance of achievement in the context of the Kingdom's Vision 2030
This celebration transcends being a tribute to a single individual; it stands as a testament to the success of Saudi Arabia’s national strategy within Vision 2030. The Vision aims to transform the Kingdom into a knowledge-based and innovation-driven economy, reducing its reliance on oil through investment in emerging sectors such as technology and scientific research. Supporting scientists and innovators like Professor Yaghi, and providing them with a stimulating research environment, is a cornerstone of achieving these goals. The partnership between KAUST and the University of California, Berkeley, which Professor Yaghi oversees, exemplifies a model of international collaboration that contributes to knowledge transfer, the localization of advanced technologies, and the strengthening of the Kingdom’s position as a leading scientific hub on the global stage.
Details of the celebration and appreciation of the leadership
During the ceremony, held in the presence of His Excellency Dr. Munir bin Mahmoud Al-Dasouqi, President of KAUST, Professor Omar Yaghi expressed his deep gratitude for the unwavering support provided by the wise leadership to the research, development, and innovation ecosystem. Yaghi emphasized that this strategic focus on scientists and national talent has enabled them to achieve globally significant accomplishments. He noted that the leadership's vision of investing in human capital is what builds an integrated research system that positions the Kingdom among the world's leading scientific nations. He added that the long-standing collaboration with KAUST represents a successful model demonstrating how science can move from theoretical discovery to practical applications with a tangible impact on society and the economy.
Supporting the next generation of researchers
The celebration wasn't limited to recognition alone; it extended to supporting and encouraging young talent. The winning research teams in the "Artificial Intelligence Materials Discovery Hackathon," organized by KAUST in collaboration with the University of California, Berkeley, were honored. The first-place prize went to the NajdGenesis-Al team for their innovative project using generative artificial intelligence to create biomaterials that capture carbon dioxide. At the event's conclusion, Professor Yaghi held an inspiring dialogue session with the students and young researchers, sharing his experiences and offering valuable advice on the importance of building a solid scientific foundation and developing research skills. He emphasized that they are the pillars of the future, who will continue the journey of research and innovation in the Kingdom.
