The KAUST community has reason to celebrate — seven faculty members have been promoted in recognition of their contributions to scientific discovery, innovation, and academic excellence.
Collectively, their achievements reflect the University’s strength and ambition, while their research, mentorship, and leadership are helping advance KAUST’s mission and deliver meaningful impact for Saudi Arabia and the world. The seven faculty members, whose promotions took effect July 1, 2026, are:
- Life sciences: Dr. Jasmeen Merzaban, promoted to full professor in the Biomedical Sciences Division, and Dr. Monika Chodasiewicz, promoted to associate professor in the Biological and Environmental Science and Engineering Division. Their respective research in cell migration and plant stress resilience contributes to advances in health and food security — areas of both national and global importance.
- Computing and engineering: Dr. Xiaohang Li, promoted to full professor, and Dr. Paula Moraga and Dr. Nazek El-Atab, both promoted to associate professor, in the Computer, Electrical and Mathematical Sciences and Engineering Division. Their respective research in semiconductor technologies, spatial statistics, and intelligent sensing hardware supports advances in next-generation electronics, health applications, and energy-efficient computing.
- Energy and environment: Dr. Froukje van der Zwan and Dr. Huabin Zhang, both promoted to associate professor, in the Physical Science and Engineering Division. Their respective research in earth systems science and catalysis advances energy, water, and environmental research, supporting sustainable solutions and KAUST’s leadership in Red Sea research.
With five of the seven promoted faculty members being women, these promotions reflect the University’s continued commitment to supporting diverse leadership in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics.