Topics | KAUST Research Conference on Robotics and Autonomy

Underwater Robot for Shallow Water Pipeline Inspection & Monitoring

Hassane Trigui, Research & Development Center, Aramco

May 8, 17:15 - 17:45

B18 Fellowship Hall

Featured Sessions

Marine Robotics Autonomous Vehicle Navigation Robotics in Hazardous Fields Field Robots Motion Control of Manipulators

Abstract Remotely operated Vehicles (ROVs) are widely used in deep water to perform various types of activities in the Oil and Gas sector and beyond. However, for extreme shallow waters, that is less than 10 meters in depth, the ROV market is severely underserved. In addition, ROV operations in shallow waters are more challenging than deeper waters due to the difficulty in accessing shallow sites with large vessels that can support divers and ROVs in their operations. Robotics Engineers from Aramco have developed a unique underwater robot specifically designed to operate in shallow waters area

Core Challenges in Navigation in Human Environments

Jean Oh, Senior Systems Scientist, Robotics Institute, Carnegie Mellon University

Mar 31, 16:30 - 17:15

KAUST

Featured Sessions

RobotoKAUST Social robot navigation motion planning motion prediction human-robot interactions

For more information please visit the website

Core Challenges in Navigation in Human Environments

Jean Oh, Senior Systems Scientist, Robotics Institute, Carnegie Mellon University

Mar 31, 16:30 - 17:15

KAUST

Featured Sessions

RobotoKAUST Social robot navigation motion planning motion prediction human-robot interactions

For more information please visit the website

Multi-Robot Task Allocation Games in Dynamically Changing Environments with Application to Trash Collection

Shinkyu Park, Assistant Professor, Electrical and Computer Engineering, KAUST

Apr 1, 11:45 - 12:30

KAUST

Featured Sessions

RobotoKAUST Multi-Robot Learning/Coordination Multi-Agent Decision Making game theory

For more information please visit the website

Distributed AI: Optimal algorithms for distributed stochastic non-convex optimization

Usman A. Khan, Associate Professor, Tufts University

Apr 1, 14:45 - 15:30

KAUST

Featured Sessions

RobotoKAUST Multi-agent systems Nonconvex problems stochastic optimization

For more information please visit the website

Shamael Al-Shuhail

M.S. (former), Electrical and Computer Engineering

Multi-carrier Systems Compressed Sensing Approach

Situational Awareness System for Autonomous Surface Vehicles

Dr. Hyun Taek Choi, Advanced intelligent Ship Research Division, Korea Research Institute of Ships and Ocean Engineering

May 10, 14:30 - 15:00

B18 Fellowship Hall

Featured Sessions

Situational Awareness System Multi-object Tracking Deep-learning based detection Sensor Fusion Autonomous Surface Vehicle

Abstract Recent advancements in robotics algorithms have been made possible by combining probabilistic-based methods with various artificial intelligence technologies. With the support of hardware technologies such as computing power and batteries, autonomous mobility technology has been rapidly advancing across all fields, including land, air, and sea. While marine robots have been somewhat slower to adopt these technologies due to the wide area, various ocean environmental conditions, and their unique characteristics, they have achieved significant advancements in recent years. This

Multi-Robot Task Allocation Games in Dynamically Changing Environments with Application to Trash Collection

Shinkyu Park, Assistant Professor, Electrical and Computer Engineering, KAUST

Apr 1, 11:45 - 12:30

KAUST

Featured Sessions

RobotoKAUST Multi-Robot Learning/Coordination Multi-Agent Decision Making game theory

For more information please visit the website

Marine Autonomy: Research and Applications

Prof. Sanjay Sharma, Associate Professor (Reader) in Intelligent Autonomous Control Systems, School of Engineering, Computing and Mathematics, University of Plymouth

May 10, 15:30 - 16:00

B18 Fellowship Hall

Featured Sessions

artificial intelligence Advanced control systems engineering Multi-sensor data fusion Integrated navigation systems Application of AI techniques to the navigation guidance

Abstract Marine autonomy does not have as many constraints as there are on land but there are still challenges that need to be overcome to make the most of current and future opportunities. My talk will concentrate on the research works done in the marine autonomous systems research group at Plymouth where the focus of the research group has been towards application of AI techniques to the navigation, guidance and control of autonomous marine vehicles. The talk will also discuss future challenges in the marine autonomy areas and their likely solutions. Biography Dr Sanjay Sharma, Associate

Optimal Design of Agricultural Walking Robot

Prof. Sayat Ibrayev, Institute of Mechanics and Engineering

May 9, 14:45 - 15:15

B18 Fellowship Hall

Featured Sessions

Mechanism Design of Mobile Robots Agricultural Automation Multilegged Robots Robotics in Agriculture and Forestry Industrial Robots

Abstract Legged machines that can adapt to off-road conditions and irregular terrain, have a number of advantages over traditional wheeled and tracked vehicles. In particular, in agriculture, they cause the least damage to the soil, in comparison with wheeled and tracked vehicles, due to the discrete track on the ground. Meanwhile, attaining to increase productivity of agricultural machines leads to an increase of machine weight that cause increased soil pressure and unfavorable conditions for plant growth. Various designing concepts of legged robots have been proposed by research teams by now

Andres Villa

Postdoctoral Research Fellow

Continual Learning Multimodal learning Visual Language Models AI4Science Action understanding

Andres Villa is a Postdoctoral Fellow in the IVUL lab at King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST), focusing on AI for Science, Continual Learning, Visual Language Models, and Action Understanding.

Emmanuel Ambriz

Postdoctoral Research Fellow, Statistics

multivariate analysis

Autonomous platform systems for underwater exploration: Light for the sea, adventures for the robots!

Prof. Toshihiro Maki, Institute of Industrial Science, The University of Tokyo

May 8, 09:15 - 09:45

B18 Fellowship Hall

Featured Sessions

Underwater robotics ASV Navigation Observation

Abstract Autonomous marine platforms such as Autonomous Underwater Vehicles (AUVs) and Autonomous Surface Vehicles (ASVs) have a large potential to realize much more efficient ocean observation compared with ship based methodology. Our group pursue the possibility of such autonomous systems by means of the latest robotics, information processing technologies, artificial intelligence, and sensing technologies. These systems will realize wide-area, high-accuracy, and long-term observation through collaboration of multiple autonomous agents such as AUVs. In this talk, some of our latest

Autonomous Vision-Based Navigation and Control for Robotic Space Objects

Hesham Shageer, Assistant Professor, King Abdulaziz City for Science and Technology KACST

Mar 31, 21:15 - 22:00

KAUST

Featured Sessions

RobotoKAUST Autonomous Space Robotics Distributed Space Systems Navigation and Control Flying Robots

For more information please visit the website

Ahmad Dkhan

Visiting Scholar (former), Information Science Lab

Physically consistent modeling Near-field propagation analysis Signal processing mmWave systems Reconfigurable Intelligent Surfaces Sparse signal recovery 6G

Visiting Student, King Abdullah University of Science and Technology Present -Master's in Electrical and Computer Engineering, American University of Beirut, Lebanon

Chaabane Mankai

M.S. Student, Electrical and Computer Engineering

Wireless Communications optimization Performance analysis network security

Surrounded by bright minds and groundbreaking research, KAUST is a great place to learn and grow.

Dan Leonte

Postdoctoral Research Fellow, Statistics

simulation-based inference neural inference methods Spatial and spatio-temporal statistics ambit fields

Dan obtained his PhD in Mathematics in 2024 from Imperial College London and the University of Oxford, UK, with a thesis titled "Simulation methods, parameter inference and forecasting for trawl processes and ambit fields". He is now a postdoctoral researcher at the King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST), working in the XSTAT group under Prof. Raphaël Huser's supervision. Education and Early Career Dan obtained his PhD in Mathematics in 2024 from Imperial College London and the University of Oxford, UK. He joined KAUST as a postdoc in April 2025. Research interests Dan's

Muhammad Esmat

Visiting Scholar (former), King Abdullah University of Science and Technology

machine learning neural network

Visiting student at, King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST).

Mohammed A Shukri

Consultant (former), King Abdullah University of Science and Technology

Neural Networks AI Python BLE communication

Technical Consultant at KAUST (King Abdullah University of Science and Technology).

Majed Sofiani

Postdoctoral Research Fellow, Applied Mathematics and Computational Sciences

non-linear partial differential equations Dynamical Systems Liquid Crystals

Distributed AI: Optimal algorithms for distributed stochastic non-convex optimization

Usman A. Khan, Associate Professor, Tufts University

Apr 1, 14:45 - 15:30

KAUST

Featured Sessions

RobotoKAUST Multi-agent systems Nonconvex problems stochastic optimization

For more information please visit the website

Dynamic Explorations of a TiltWing Aircraft Transitioning from Conventional to Hovering Flight

John Hauser, Professor, University of Colorado Boulder

Mar 31, 19:00 - 19:45

KAUST

Featured Sessions

RobotoKAUST Aircraft Maneuvering Slipstream Dynamic Pressure Distributed Electric Propulsion Nonlinear Maneuvering

For more information please visit the website

Xiaoyi Song

Ph.D. Student, Electrical and Computer Engineering

Silicon photonics on-chip light source LiDAR nonreciprocal optical devices

Xiaoyi Song received his Bachelor's degree in Electronic Science and Technology from the University of Electronic Science and Technology of China (UESTC) in 2022 and is currently pursuing a Master's degree at UESTC. Before joining KAUST, he engaged in research on magneto-optical integration and integrated photonics for three years. His research experience encompasses the deposition, design, and characterization of magneto-optical materials and photonic devices, including phase shifters and nonreciprocal components such as optical circulators. He has published a research paper in Photonics

Hussein Al-Shatri

Research Scientist, Electrical and Computer Engineering

haps nr-u interference management beamforming tochnologies coexistence prototyping

I chose KAUST because of its reputation for excellence in research and its recent emphasis on applied research. With my extensive background in both academic research and industrial development, I am excited to contribute my experience and ambition. My goal is to foster new ideas and develop innovative prototypes in the field of wireless communications, which will undoubtedly enhance people's lives.

Georgios Grekas

Postdoctoral Research Fellow, Applied Mathematics and Computational Sciences

solid mechanics biomechanics numerical analysis scientific computing

Autonomous platform systems for underwater exploration: Light for the sea, adventures for the robots!

Prof. Toshihiro Maki, Institute of Industrial Science, The University of Tokyo

May 8, 09:15 - 09:45

B18 Fellowship Hall

Featured Sessions

Underwater robotics ASV Navigation Observation

Abstract Autonomous marine platforms such as Autonomous Underwater Vehicles (AUVs) and Autonomous Surface Vehicles (ASVs) have a large potential to realize much more efficient ocean observation compared with ship based methodology. Our group pursue the possibility of such autonomous systems by means of the latest robotics, information processing technologies, artificial intelligence, and sensing technologies. These systems will realize wide-area, high-accuracy, and long-term observation through collaboration of multiple autonomous agents such as AUVs. In this talk, some of our latest

The UK National Centre for Coastal Autonomy (NCCA) – A centre of excellence for coastal marine autonomy

Dr. Matthew Palmer, Head of Science - Digital Innovation & Marine Autonomy, Plymouth Marine Laboratory

May 10, 16:45 - 17:15

B18 Fellowship Hall

Featured Sessions

Coastal Ocean Ocean Observing Systems Marine Autonomy Digital Technology

Abstract The recently launched NCCA aims to deliver world-leading capability in the pursuit of coastal oceanography using marine autonomy and digital technologies. It will combine state-of-the-art vehicles and platforms, sophisticated scientific buoys, a unique high-speed marine communications network and AI capability to deliver the next generation coastal ocean observing system. The NCCA partnership will deliver high resolution and trustworthy data to enable policy relevant science that enables good stewardship of our coastal ocean environment. It also provides a testbed for emerging

Optical wireless communication for underwater internet of things

Boon Ooi, Professor, Electrical and Computer Engineering

May 10, 16:15 - 16:45

B18 Fellowship Hall

Featured Sessions

Sensor networks Omnidirectional Vision Product Design Development and Prototyping Range Sensing Surveillance Systems

Abstract Underwater wireless optical communication (UWOC) has attracted increasing interest in various underwater activities because of its order-of-magnitude higher bandwidth compared to acoustic and radio-frequency technologies. Testbeds and pre-aligned UWOC links were constructed for physical layer evaluation, which verified that UWOC systems can operate at tens of gigabits per second or close to a hundred meters of distance. This hold promises for realizing a globally connected Internet of Underwater Things (IoUT). However, due to the fundamental complexity of the ocean water environment

Xiaoyi Song

Ph.D. Student, Electrical and Computer Engineering

Silicon photonics on-chip light source LiDAR nonreciprocal optical devices

Xiaoyi Song received his Bachelor's degree in Electronic Science and Technology from the University of Electronic Science and Technology of China (UESTC) in 2022 and is currently pursuing a Master's degree at UESTC. Before joining KAUST, he engaged in research on magneto-optical integration and integrated photonics for three years. His research experience encompasses the deposition, design, and characterization of magneto-optical materials and photonic devices, including phase shifters and nonreciprocal components such as optical circulators. He has published a research paper in Photonics

Ibtihal Alharbi

M.S. Student, Applied Physics

optical communication quantum communication

Ibtihal received her bachelor's degree in 2024 in physics from Taibah university with a GPA of 4.93 / 5 , she is currently working towards a master’s degree under the supervision of Prof. Yating Wan at King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST). Research interests Ibtihal’s research interests are in the application of integrated photonics for optical and quantum communications. Education profile B.Sc. : Taibah university 2020 - 2024

Hayssam Dahrouj

Research Scientist (former), King Abdullah University of Science and Technology

6g wireless systems cloud- and fog-radio access networks cross-layer optimization Cooperative networks machine learning Optical communications

Senior Research Scientist at KAUST (King Abdullah University of Science and Technology)

Saud Alabdulal

M.S. Student, Electrical and Computer Engineering

optical computing LiDAR

Saud received his bachelor's degree in 2023 in Physics from King Fahad University of Petroleum and minerals (KFUPM). He is currently working towards a master’s degree under the supervision of Prof. Yating Wan at King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST). Research interests Saud’s research interests are in applications of integrated photonics for optical computing and LiDAR Education profile B.Sc.: King Fahad University of Petroleum and minerals (KFUPM) 2018-2023.

Mhd. Emad Alolaby

Associate Editor, King Abdullah University of Science and Technology

Network Design telecommunication 5G networks GSM Digital Communications optical fiber AI deep learning MATLAB

Bozhang Dong

Assistant Professor, Lava University

quantum-dot lasers optical frequency combs

Dr. Bozhang Dong is a Postdoctoral Fellow at the Integrated Photonics Laboratory, King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST). He received his B. E. degree in Optoelectronic Information Engineering from Huazhong University of Science and Technology, China, in 2016, and his M. Sc. Degree in Electrical Engineering with honors from Paris-Saclay University, France, in 2018. He earned his Ph.D. from Institut Polytechnique de Paris, France, in 2022, where he defended his thesis, “Quantum-Dot Laser on Silicon: Nonlinear Properties, Dynamics, and Applications”. His work was recognized

Boon Ooi

Professor, Electrical and Computer Engineering

optics photonics

Professor Ooi is a pioneer in optoelectronics and photonic integrated circuits development, particularly for optical communications and sensor applications. His work has led to the successful commercialization of semiconductor lasers, broadband light sources, and optical sensors

Estimation and control of underwater optical wireless communication systems

May 10, 15:00 - 15:30

B18 Fellowship Hall

Featured Sessions

Marine Robotics Localization Optimization and Optimal Control Distributed Robot Systems Networked Robots

Abstract Underwater optical wireless communication (UOWC) technologies are essential for the growth of future underwater communication applications. As the demand for capacity increases, UOWC is considered an emerging alternative technology in the underwater communication area. However, maintaining a controlled line-of-sight link between transmitter and receiver is a significant challenge because the alignment angle required for trajectory tracking control is not directly measured and has to be estimated. In this talk, I will present our recent works on estimating the alignment angle between

Predicting when introduction of robotics in agricultural leads to whole-system changes

Clay Thomas Mitchell, Co-Founder and Managing Director, Fall Line Capital

May 9, 14:15 - 14:45

B18 Fellowship Hall

Featured Sessions

Spray drones marginal cost double-cropping option value

Abstract Automation in arable farming is useful for reducing labor requirements (specialty crops) and for increased efficiency of major resources of land, water, fertilizer, and fuel (broadacre crops). In some cases, automation has high market penetration, but has little effect on the farming system beyond the tools it replaced. In other cases, automation leads to complete changes in the cropping system, leaving few inputs and outputs unaffected. In this talk, we explore both ground-based and aerial robotics in agriculture and develop a framework, using the Buckingham Pi Theorem, for

Zichun Lin

Ph.D. Student, Electrical and Computer Engineering

photonic integrated circuits optoelectronic systems

Zichun earned his Bachelor's degree in Microelectronics Science and Engineering from Sun Yat-sen University in 2023 and is currently pursuing a Master of Philosophy degree in The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology (Guangzhou). He has been honored with several prestigious awards that highlight his exceptional achievements, including the Excellent Graduation Thesis Award from SYSU (Top 5%), the Meijiayin Scholarship, and the Red Bird Full Postgraduate Scholarship at HKUST(GZ). Research interest During his postgraduate studies, Zichun has developed strong expertise in the modeling

Katerina Nik

Assistant Professor, Applied Mathematics and Computational Sciences

Partial Differential Equations free boundary problems calculus of variations Mathematical Biology Microelectromechanical fluid dynamics mean curvature flow

Professor Nik studies partial differential equations that describe phenomena in biological growth processes, fluid dynamics, and mechanical engineering.

Chaabane Mankai

M.S. Student, Electrical and Computer Engineering

Wireless Communications optimization Performance analysis network security

Surrounded by bright minds and groundbreaking research, KAUST is a great place to learn and grow.

Abdulrahman Alhamed

Assistant Professor, Electrical and Computer Engineering

Radio Frequency Integrated Circuits wireless transceivers system on chip phased-arrays Satellite Communications

Dr. Abdulrahman Alhamed is an assistant professor of Electrical and Computer Engineering at KAUST, specializing in RF integrated circuits and systems. His research focuses on advancing wireless technologies for telecommunications and sensing applications

Zichun Lin

Ph.D. Student, Electrical and Computer Engineering

photonic integrated circuits optoelectronic systems

Zichun earned his Bachelor's degree in Microelectronics Science and Engineering from Sun Yat-sen University in 2023 and is currently pursuing a Master of Philosophy degree in The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology (Guangzhou). He has been honored with several prestigious awards that highlight his exceptional achievements, including the Excellent Graduation Thesis Award from SYSU (Top 5%), the Meijiayin Scholarship, and the Red Bird Full Postgraduate Scholarship at HKUST(GZ). Research interest During his postgraduate studies, Zichun has developed strong expertise in the modeling

Boon Ooi

Professor, Electrical and Computer Engineering

optics photonics

Professor Ooi is a pioneer in optoelectronics and photonic integrated circuits development, particularly for optical communications and sensor applications. His work has led to the successful commercialization of semiconductor lasers, broadband light sources, and optical sensors

Burton Jones

Professor, Marine Science

bio-optical oceanography physical-biological interactions coastal processes

Prof. Burton Jones leads the Saudi Aramco-KAUST Marine Environmental Research Center. As a faculty member of the Red Sea Research Center, he initiates and directs several biophysical projects on behalf of the Center. Specific research interests include biological oceanography, physical/biological interactions, ocean optics, ocean observing, nutrient cycles, coastal urban issues, integrated observation and modeling. Research Interests Professor Jones’ research interests include bio-optical oceanography, physical-biological interactions, coastal processes, and coastal ocean observing systems

Ahmad Dkhan

Visiting Scholar (former), Information Science Lab

Physically consistent modeling Near-field propagation analysis Signal processing mmWave systems Reconfigurable Intelligent Surfaces Sparse signal recovery 6G

Visiting Student, King Abdullah University of Science and Technology Present -Master's in Electrical and Computer Engineering, American University of Beirut, Lebanon

Yi-Hsuan Chen: Control Design for Reduced-G Atmospheric Flights

Yi-Hsuan Chen, M.S. Student, Mechanical Engineering

Mar 1, 17:00 - 19:00

KAUST Library

Poster Sessions

Poster Session

Control Design for Reduced-G Atmospheric Flights Abstract This work presents a longitudinal flight control algorithm to direct the aircraft to achieve microgravity through parabolic flight. The proposed control strategy makes an aircraft follow the desired trajectory by eliminating the local position errors between aircraft and proof mass. As an aircraft flies along the parabolic trajectories, it will be in a free-fall stage, thus causing the sensation of weightlessness. Moreover, triple-integral control is developed to reject the unknown, quadratically increasing aerodynamic drag. The

The challenging path to creating fully autonomous and controllable microrobots

Prof. Néstor O. Pérez-Arancibia, Autonomous Microrobotic Systems Laboratory, University of Southern California (USC)

Apr 1, 18:45 - 19:30

KAUST

Featured Sessions

RobotoKAUST microrobots autonomy Power Catalytic Artificial Muscles Flight Control Crawling Control

For more information please visit the website

Nabil Mohammed

Research Scientist, Electrical and Computer Engineering

Power electronics Renewable integrations Microgrids Renewable-based power systems

Nabil Mohammed is a research scientist specializing in power electronics engineering, focusing on the integration of renewable energy (e.g., solar PV and wind) and the modeling, stability, and control of power electronic-based power systems.

Matthew McCabe

Professor, Environmental Science and Engineering

water and food security climate change precision agriculture water resources monitoring modeling earth system observation

Research Interests Prof. McCabe’s research focuses on issues related to water and food security, climate change impacts, precision agriculture, water resources monitoring and modeling, and the novel use of technologies for enhanced Earth system observation. The research undertaken in his group combines models and observations to answer questions on the distribution, variability and exchanges of water at local, regional and global scales, as well as the interactions with vegetation. CubeSats, unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) and in-situ monitoring techniques are all employed to monitor

Challenges in Coral Reef Research and Conservation: Robotics and Autonomous Sampling to the Rescue?

Prof. Adrienne M. S. Correa, BioSciences, Rice University

May 9, 11:15 - 11:45

B18 Fellowship Hall

Featured Sessions

fish microorganism probiotics sampling restoration

Abstract Coral reef ecosystems contribute ~$30 billion USD annually to the global economy and harbor 1/4 of all known marine species. However, human activities have driven the loss of 50% of the world’s reefs over the last 30 years, and 90% of remaining reefs are predicted to be threatened by 2030. Thus, there is an urgent need for human interventions to support reef resilience to warming seas, overharvesting and pollution. Various studies have documented the influence of microbial symbionts on host physiology, demonstrated that some hosts are relatively mutable in the symbionts they harbor

Optical wireless communication for underwater internet of things

Boon Ooi, Professor, Electrical and Computer Engineering

May 10, 16:15 - 16:45

B18 Fellowship Hall

Featured Sessions

Sensor networks Omnidirectional Vision Product Design Development and Prototyping Range Sensing Surveillance Systems

Abstract Underwater wireless optical communication (UWOC) has attracted increasing interest in various underwater activities because of its order-of-magnitude higher bandwidth compared to acoustic and radio-frequency technologies. Testbeds and pre-aligned UWOC links were constructed for physical layer evaluation, which verified that UWOC systems can operate at tens of gigabits per second or close to a hundred meters of distance. This hold promises for realizing a globally connected Internet of Underwater Things (IoUT). However, due to the fundamental complexity of the ocean water environment

Hussein Al-Shatri

Research Scientist, Electrical and Computer Engineering

haps nr-u interference management beamforming tochnologies coexistence prototyping

I chose KAUST because of its reputation for excellence in research and its recent emphasis on applied research. With my extensive background in both academic research and industrial development, I am excited to contribute my experience and ambition. My goal is to foster new ideas and develop innovative prototypes in the field of wireless communications, which will undoubtedly enhance people's lives.

Christian Bayer

Research Scientist, Weierstrass Institute for Applied Analysis and Stochastics

Quantitative finance stochastic algorithms

Christian Bayer's research focuses on financial mathematics and stochastic numerics, including modelling stock indices and numerical approximation of stochastic optimal control problems.

Bozhang Dong

Assistant Professor, Lava University

quantum-dot lasers optical frequency combs

Dr. Bozhang Dong is a Postdoctoral Fellow at the Integrated Photonics Laboratory, King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST). He received his B. E. degree in Optoelectronic Information Engineering from Huazhong University of Science and Technology, China, in 2016, and his M. Sc. Degree in Electrical Engineering with honors from Paris-Saclay University, France, in 2018. He earned his Ph.D. from Institut Polytechnique de Paris, France, in 2022, where he defended his thesis, “Quantum-Dot Laser on Silicon: Nonlinear Properties, Dynamics, and Applications”. His work was recognized

Abdulrahman Alhamed

Assistant Professor, Electrical and Computer Engineering

Radio Frequency Integrated Circuits wireless transceivers system on chip phased-arrays Satellite Communications

Dr. Abdulrahman Alhamed is an assistant professor of Electrical and Computer Engineering at KAUST, specializing in RF integrated circuits and systems. His research focuses on advancing wireless technologies for telecommunications and sensing applications

Optical wireless communication for underwater internet of things

Boon Ooi, Professor, Electrical and Computer Engineering

May 10, 16:15 - 16:45

B18 Fellowship Hall

Featured Sessions

Sensor networks Omnidirectional Vision Product Design Development and Prototyping Range Sensing Surveillance Systems

Abstract Underwater wireless optical communication (UWOC) has attracted increasing interest in various underwater activities because of its order-of-magnitude higher bandwidth compared to acoustic and radio-frequency technologies. Testbeds and pre-aligned UWOC links were constructed for physical layer evaluation, which verified that UWOC systems can operate at tens of gigabits per second or close to a hundred meters of distance. This hold promises for realizing a globally connected Internet of Underwater Things (IoUT). However, due to the fundamental complexity of the ocean water environment

Efficient Reachability for Safe Autonomous Systems: A Mixed Monotone Approach

Sam Coogan, Assistant Professor, Georgia Institute of Technology

Apr 1, 19:45 - 20:30

KAUST

Featured Sessions

RobotoKAUST safe autonomy reachability invariance

For more information please visit the website

Ahmad Dkhan

Visiting Scholar (former), Information Science Lab

Physically consistent modeling Near-field propagation analysis Signal processing mmWave systems Reconfigurable Intelligent Surfaces Sparse signal recovery 6G

Visiting Student, King Abdullah University of Science and Technology Present -Master's in Electrical and Computer Engineering, American University of Beirut, Lebanon

Certification of Autonomous Vehicles: A Regulator-Oriented Approach

Huan Xu, Assistant Professor, University of Maryland

Apr 1, 20:30 - 21:15

KAUST

Featured Sessions

RobotoKAUST Aerospace autonomy Certification regulations

For more information please visit the website

Bang Huang

Postdoctoral Research Fellow, Electrical and Computer Engineering

FDA-MIMO Radar Talget Detection ISAC haps remote sensing

Bang Huang works as a postdoctoral fellow at the Computer Electrical and Mathematical Sciences and Engineering Division (CEMSE), King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST), under the supervision of Prof. Mohamed-Slim Alouini in the Communication Theory Lab (CTL). Education and Early Career Bang Huang received the M.S. degree (with honors) in electrical engineering and Ph.D degree in information and communication engineering from the School of Information and Communication Engineering (SICE), University of Electronic Science and Technology of China (UESTC), Chengdu, China, in

Nabil Mohammed

Research Scientist, Electrical and Computer Engineering

Power electronics Renewable integrations Microgrids Renewable-based power systems

Nabil Mohammed is a research scientist specializing in power electronics engineering, focusing on the integration of renewable energy (e.g., solar PV and wind) and the modeling, stability, and control of power electronic-based power systems.

Nabil Mohammed

Research Scientist, Electrical and Computer Engineering

Power electronics Renewable integrations Microgrids Renewable-based power systems

Nabil Mohammed is a research scientist specializing in power electronics engineering, focusing on the integration of renewable energy (e.g., solar PV and wind) and the modeling, stability, and control of power electronic-based power systems.

The KAUST Research Conference on Robotics and Autonomy 2022 #RobotoKAUST

1 min read · Tue, Nov 2 2021

News

robotics research conference

Building upon our successful online conference in spring 2021, the KAUST Robotics, Intelligent Systems, and Control Lab (RISC Lab) will host the KAUST Research Conference on Robotics and Autonomy 2022 (#RobotoKAUST2022) from February 28 until March 2, 2022. The conference will address the most recent trends of robotics application in a range of disciplines.

Challenges in Coral Reef Research and Conservation: Robotics and Autonomous Sampling to the Rescue?

Prof. Adrienne M. S. Correa, BioSciences, Rice University

May 9, 11:15 - 11:45

B18 Fellowship Hall

Featured Sessions

fish microorganism probiotics sampling restoration

Abstract Coral reef ecosystems contribute ~$30 billion USD annually to the global economy and harbor 1/4 of all known marine species. However, human activities have driven the loss of 50% of the world’s reefs over the last 30 years, and 90% of remaining reefs are predicted to be threatened by 2030. Thus, there is an urgent need for human interventions to support reef resilience to warming seas, overharvesting and pollution. Various studies have documented the influence of microbial symbionts on host physiology, demonstrated that some hosts are relatively mutable in the symbionts they harbor

Abdelrahman Eldesokey

Postdoctoral Research Fellow

Diffusion Models Computer Vision Large Language Models Retrieval-augmented generation

I am a Postdoctoral Fellow at KAUST, Saudi Arabia, specializing in Generative AI and conducting research on advanced topics in Generative and Large Language Models (LLMs). I bring over 11 years of combined academic and industrial experience in Computer Vision and Deep Learning across Sweden, Egypt, and Saudi Arabia.

Prof. Gao: AI robotics for sustainable space exploration and exploitation

Prof. Yang Gao, University of Surrey, UK

Feb 28, 11:45 - 12:15

B19 H1

Featured Sessions

Risclab

AI robotics for sustainable space exploration and exploitation Abstract The global space sector moves toward the New Space era driven by commercialization and resource exploitation, where AI robotics will play central roles and be directly responsible for meeting stringent requirements in cost, operability, reusability, and sustainability of long-lived assets in the harsh space environments. The invited talk present some latest research work and technology development involving robotic vision, machine learning and biomimetic mechanisms, appliable to mission scenarios such as formation flying

New Zealand Robotics, Automation and Sensing (NZRAS) Roadmap and Horticulture Robotics

Dr. Shen Hin Lim, School of Engineering, University of Waikato

May 9, 08:30 - 09:00

B18 Fellowship Hall

Featured Sessions

horticulture robotics smart end-effectors roadmap robotic field trials

Abstract Technological advancements have been an important asset in New Zealand. New Zealand Robotics, Automation and Sensing (NZRAS) is a group that embodies a network of researchers, engineers, technologists and students in the robotics, automation and sensing (RAS) space in New Zealand and has developed a roadmap to firstly showed the RAS state in New Zealand with recommendations to facilitate technological growth in New Zealand. One of the most compelling RAS growths within New Zealand is our capability in horticulture robotics. This talk will provide an overview of the NZRAS roadmap and

New Zealand Robotics, Automation and Sensing (NZRAS) Roadmap and Horticulture Robotics

Dr. Shen Hin Lim, School of Engineering, University of Waikato

May 9, 08:30 - 09:00

B18 Fellowship Hall

Featured Sessions

horticulture robotics smart end-effectors roadmap robotic field trials

Abstract Technological advancements have been an important asset in New Zealand. New Zealand Robotics, Automation and Sensing (NZRAS) is a group that embodies a network of researchers, engineers, technologists and students in the robotics, automation and sensing (RAS) space in New Zealand and has developed a roadmap to firstly showed the RAS state in New Zealand with recommendations to facilitate technological growth in New Zealand. One of the most compelling RAS growths within New Zealand is our capability in horticulture robotics. This talk will provide an overview of the NZRAS roadmap and

Underwater Robot for Shallow Water Pipeline Inspection & Monitoring

Hassane Trigui, Research & Development Center, Aramco

May 8, 17:15 - 17:45

B18 Fellowship Hall

Featured Sessions

Marine Robotics Autonomous Vehicle Navigation Robotics in Hazardous Fields Field Robots Motion Control of Manipulators

Abstract Remotely operated Vehicles (ROVs) are widely used in deep water to perform various types of activities in the Oil and Gas sector and beyond. However, for extreme shallow waters, that is less than 10 meters in depth, the ROV market is severely underserved. In addition, ROV operations in shallow waters are more challenging than deeper waters due to the difficulty in accessing shallow sites with large vessels that can support divers and ROVs in their operations. Robotics Engineers from Aramco have developed a unique underwater robot specifically designed to operate in shallow waters area

Prof. Feron: Modular drones: Where geometry meets Flight

Eric Feron, Professor, Electrical and Computer Engineering

Mar 2, 17:45 - 18:15

B19 H1

Featured Sessions

RobotKAUST

Modular drones: Where geometry meets Flight Abstract Small rotary-wing drones are well-known not to be as energy-efficient as large drones. However, small drones feature attractive characteristics, such as improved robustness against collisions and crashes, easier acceptance by Air Traffic Service Providers, and simpler manufacturing and handling. Large drones feature complementary qualities, first and foremost the ability to carry large loads. When endowed with the ability to hover, large drones can actively participate not only to the transportation of payloads, but also to the manufacturing

Intelligent swarm underwater robotics for coastal and shallow water applications

Prof. Mohd Rizal Bin Arshad, School of Electrical and Electronic Engineering, Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM)

May 8, 11:00 - 11:30

B18 Fellowship Hall

Featured Sessions

Underwater robotics Swarm Robots intelligent systems Robust Environment

Abstract The underwater or marine environment has always been a challenging environment for robots due to the difficulties that arise when placing a robot such robust and dynamic condition. However, recent advancements in technology have seen the use of a swarm of robots that are affordable but yet are of better quality than traditional robots in certain applications. This shift has opened up new possibilities for exploring the underwater world. Intelligent swarm underwater robotics is an emerging topic that has gained significant attention in recent years. The use of swarm robotics has been

Challenges in Coral Reef Research and Conservation: Robotics and Autonomous Sampling to the Rescue?

Prof. Adrienne M. S. Correa, BioSciences, Rice University

May 9, 11:15 - 11:45

B18 Fellowship Hall

Featured Sessions

fish microorganism probiotics sampling restoration

Abstract Coral reef ecosystems contribute ~$30 billion USD annually to the global economy and harbor 1/4 of all known marine species. However, human activities have driven the loss of 50% of the world’s reefs over the last 30 years, and 90% of remaining reefs are predicted to be threatened by 2030. Thus, there is an urgent need for human interventions to support reef resilience to warming seas, overharvesting and pollution. Various studies have documented the influence of microbial symbionts on host physiology, demonstrated that some hosts are relatively mutable in the symbionts they harbor

Abdulrahman Alhamed

Assistant Professor, Electrical and Computer Engineering

Radio Frequency Integrated Circuits wireless transceivers system on chip phased-arrays Satellite Communications

Dr. Abdulrahman Alhamed is an assistant professor of Electrical and Computer Engineering at KAUST, specializing in RF integrated circuits and systems. His research focuses on advancing wireless technologies for telecommunications and sensing applications

Georgios Grekas

Postdoctoral Research Fellow, Applied Mathematics and Computational Sciences

solid mechanics biomechanics numerical analysis scientific computing

Autonomous marine mapping, current situation and future possibilities

Frank Mallon, Director, Marine and Archaeology, Shamal Technologies

May 8, 17:45 - 18:15

B18 Fellowship Hall

Featured Sessions

Marine Robotics Aerial Robotics Autonomous Vehicle Navigation Mapping Search and Rescue Robots

Abstract In the last decade marine robotics and autonomous research has started to grow in the Red Sea, led by KAUST researchers, marine startup companies and now with the various new Giga Projects. In the early days this work often had a heavy human component for the launch, recovery and control. New emerging technologies for remotely telemetry are helping to solve this, as are combined autonomous survey solutions. Using multiple autonomous systems, on the sea surface, underwater and airborne in a single survey campaign is proving to be extremely efficient with significantly more data being

Semi-autonomous systems enable advances in Earth Observation

Matthew McCabe, Professor, Environmental Science and Engineering

May 9, 09:30 - 10:00

B18 Fellowship Hall

Featured Sessions

Agricultural Automation Field Robots Mapping Sensor Fusion Object detection segmentation

Abstract The description and characterization of the Earth system is a field that routinely leverages technological advances to improve our understanding of diverse ecosystems. One of the most promising areas of application is the use of autonomous and semi-autonomous platforms in precision agriculture. Such systems are capable of performing data collection, analysis, and decision-making tasks with minimal human intervention. The Hydrology, Agriculture, and Land Observation (HALO) laboratory at KAUST is at the forefront of this technology, employing a combination of satellites, UAVs and most

Sixiu Liu

Ph.D. (former), Earth Science and Engineering

seismic processing deep learning

Ph.D. degree in Earth science and engineering with the King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST)

Fida Mohammad Thoker

Postdoctoral Research Fellow

Self-supervised learning Video Understanding Action Recognition

Optical wireless communication for underwater internet of things

Boon Ooi, Professor, Electrical and Computer Engineering

May 10, 16:15 - 16:45

B18 Fellowship Hall

Featured Sessions

Sensor networks Omnidirectional Vision Product Design Development and Prototyping Range Sensing Surveillance Systems

Abstract Underwater wireless optical communication (UWOC) has attracted increasing interest in various underwater activities because of its order-of-magnitude higher bandwidth compared to acoustic and radio-frequency technologies. Testbeds and pre-aligned UWOC links were constructed for physical layer evaluation, which verified that UWOC systems can operate at tens of gigabits per second or close to a hundred meters of distance. This hold promises for realizing a globally connected Internet of Underwater Things (IoUT). However, due to the fundamental complexity of the ocean water environment

Neuromorphic Computing Architectures for Robot Vision in Marine Harsh Environments

Prof. Jorge Dias, Center for Autonomous Robotic Systems, Khalifa University

May 8, 14:30 - 15:00

B18 Fellowship Hall

Featured Sessions

Marine Robotics Computer Vision for Other Robotic Applications Cognitive Human-Robot Interaction Visual Servoing Sensor-based Control

Abstract The design of robots that interact autonomously with the environment and exhibit complex behaviors is an open challenge that can benefit from understanding what makes living beings fit to act in the world. Neuromorphic engineering studies neural computational principles to develop technologies that can provide a computing substrate for building compact and low-power processing systems. In this talk shows why the robots with neuromorphic technologies - from perception to motor control - represents a promising approach for the creation of robots which can be more intelligent and

Xiaoyi Song

Ph.D. Student, Electrical and Computer Engineering

Silicon photonics on-chip light source LiDAR nonreciprocal optical devices

Xiaoyi Song received his Bachelor's degree in Electronic Science and Technology from the University of Electronic Science and Technology of China (UESTC) in 2022 and is currently pursuing a Master's degree at UESTC. Before joining KAUST, he engaged in research on magneto-optical integration and integrated photonics for three years. His research experience encompasses the deposition, design, and characterization of magneto-optical materials and photonic devices, including phase shifters and nonreciprocal components such as optical circulators. He has published a research paper in Photonics

Dan Leonte

Postdoctoral Research Fellow, Statistics

simulation-based inference neural inference methods Spatial and spatio-temporal statistics ambit fields

Dan obtained his PhD in Mathematics in 2024 from Imperial College London and the University of Oxford, UK, with a thesis titled "Simulation methods, parameter inference and forecasting for trawl processes and ambit fields". He is now a postdoctoral researcher at the King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST), working in the XSTAT group under Prof. Raphaël Huser's supervision. Education and Early Career Dan obtained his PhD in Mathematics in 2024 from Imperial College London and the University of Oxford, UK. He joined KAUST as a postdoc in April 2025. Research interests Dan's

Challenges in Marine Autonomy

Stefan B. Williams, Head of School of Aerospace, Mechanical and Mechatronic Engineering, University of Sydney

Mar 31, 12:00 - 12:45

KAUST

Featured Sessions

Autonomous Underwater Vehicles Simultaneous Localisation and Mapping machine learning

For more information please visit the website

Situational Awareness System for Autonomous Surface Vehicles

Dr. Hyun Taek Choi, Advanced intelligent Ship Research Division, Korea Research Institute of Ships and Ocean Engineering

May 10, 14:30 - 15:00

B18 Fellowship Hall

Featured Sessions

Situational Awareness System Multi-object Tracking Deep-learning based detection Sensor Fusion Autonomous Surface Vehicle

Abstract Recent advancements in robotics algorithms have been made possible by combining probabilistic-based methods with various artificial intelligence technologies. With the support of hardware technologies such as computing power and batteries, autonomous mobility technology has been rapidly advancing across all fields, including land, air, and sea. While marine robots have been somewhat slower to adopt these technologies due to the wide area, various ocean environmental conditions, and their unique characteristics, they have achieved significant advancements in recent years. This

The future of coral reef monitoring

Michael Berumen, Professor, Marine Science

May 8, 09:45 - 10:15

B18 Fellowship Hall

Featured Sessions

Marine Robotics Mapping SLAM Computer Vision for Automation Distributed Robot Systems

Abstract Saudi Arabia is undertaking an unprecedented development along its Red Sea coast, including launching multiple "GigaProjects", with ambitions to be a major ecotourism destination. At the same time, the country has committed to the highest levels of protection for the natural environment and 'regenerative tourism' approaches that will improve the quality of the targeted habitats. Of particular focus are the Kingdom's numerous coral reefs, renowned for their biodiversity. Traditional approaches for monitoring the health of coral reefs are difficult to scale up sufficiently to meet the

Dynamic Explorations of a TiltWing Aircraft Transitioning from Conventional to Hovering Flight

John Hauser, Professor, University of Colorado Boulder

Mar 31, 19:00 - 19:45

KAUST

Featured Sessions

RobotoKAUST Aircraft Maneuvering Slipstream Dynamic Pressure Distributed Electric Propulsion Nonlinear Maneuvering

For more information please visit the website

Flying LoRA IoT Gateway for Agricultural Applications

Prof. Samsuzana Abd Aziz, Department of Biological and Agricultural Engineering, Universiti Putra Malaysia

May 9, 09:00 - 09:30

B18 Fellowship Hall

Featured Sessions

UAV LoRAWAN IoT flying getaway smart agriculture

Abstract Low-Power Wide Area Network (LPWAN) technologies like LoRa have become prominent for IoT deployments in large agricultural areas due to their low-power and long-range transmission. However, data transmission in large farms with diverse landscapes suffers from obstructions or occlusions, and wired gateways are still difficult to cover the whole agricultural areas without proper network or power infrastructures. This study integrates LoRa gateways with a flying drone to enhance the connectivity to sensor nodes deployed in an oil palm plantation. The LoRa gateway was mounted on a multi

New Zealand Robotics, Automation and Sensing (NZRAS) Roadmap and Horticulture Robotics

Dr. Shen Hin Lim, School of Engineering, University of Waikato

May 9, 08:30 - 09:00

B18 Fellowship Hall

Featured Sessions

horticulture robotics smart end-effectors roadmap robotic field trials

Abstract Technological advancements have been an important asset in New Zealand. New Zealand Robotics, Automation and Sensing (NZRAS) is a group that embodies a network of researchers, engineers, technologists and students in the robotics, automation and sensing (RAS) space in New Zealand and has developed a roadmap to firstly showed the RAS state in New Zealand with recommendations to facilitate technological growth in New Zealand. One of the most compelling RAS growths within New Zealand is our capability in horticulture robotics. This talk will provide an overview of the NZRAS roadmap and

Bioinspired Subsea Robots and Underwater Networks

Dr. Rudolf Bannasch, Managing Director (and co-founder), EvoLogics GmbH

May 8, 18:15 - 18:45

B18 Fellowship Hall

Featured Sessions

Underwater communication and positioning subsea networks smart robots swarm collaboration artificial intelligence

Abstract Advanced subsea robots and monitoring networks have become increasingly important for subsea exploration, environmental observation, industrial control, and maritime security. These systems face challenges ranging from shallow water to deep-sea applications. To overcome these challenges, engineers can draw inspiration from nature. Studies on the bio-sonar of dolphins provide a clue for reliable underwater communication and positioning, which is the basis for modern subsea networks and collaborative underwater robots. Pressure-resistant electronic design enables devices to operate at

Mohamed Ads

Visiting Student (former), King Abdullah University of Science and Technology

IoT Telecommunications Smart Wireless Massive Systems LED Wireless Communication Systems artificial intelligence machine learning Cyber Security

Visiting Student, King Abdullah University of Science and Technology

Core Challenges in Navigation in Human Environments

Jean Oh, Senior Systems Scientist, Robotics Institute, Carnegie Mellon University

Mar 31, 16:30 - 17:15

KAUST

Featured Sessions

RobotoKAUST Social robot navigation motion planning motion prediction human-robot interactions

For more information please visit the website

Designing And Modelling Soft Active Artificial Muscles “Geometric and Material Nonlinearities”

Marwa Eldiwiny, PhD Student, IEEE RAS Org

Apr 1, 17:15 - 18:00

KAUST

Featured Sessions

RobotoKAUST FEMSimulation SoftActiveMaterial Geometricandmaterial nonlinearities Controller design

For more information please visit the website

Yasser Jaber

Visiting Researcher (former), King Abdullah University of Science and Technology

machine learning software artificial intelligence

Visiting Student Researcher ,Machine Learning Engineer at KAUST (King Abdullah University of Science and Technology).

Faisal Alhindi

Visiting Scholar (former), King Abdullah University of Science and Technology

Software Developer Data Analyst

Visiting student at King Abdullah University of Science and Technology.

Kaiqiang Lin is currently a Postdoctoral Research Fellow at the Computer Electrical and Mathematical Sciences and Engineering Division (CEMSE), King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST), working with Professor Mohamed-Slim Alouini in the Communication Theory Lab (CTL). Education and Early Career Kaiqiang Lin received his B.Eng. degree in Electronic and Information Engineering from Fujian Agriculture and Forestry University, Fuzhou, China, in 2018, and his Ph.D. degree with the College of Surveying and Geo-Informatics Tongji University, Shanghai, China, in 2024. From 2021 to