UConn has signed an agreement to collaborate with the King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST) of Saudi Arabia in scientific areas with regional and global impact, notably focusing on pressing challenges in artificial intelligence (AI), sustainability, clean energy, and health technologies.

The aim of both institutions is to develop an innovative model for global collaboration: one that bridges research and real-world applications, driving technology commercialization and societal benefits.

Along with collaborative research, the agreement calls for the two universities to develop joint programs that facilitate creative student interactions and accelerates the commercialization of innovations in multiple technology sectors.

Daniel Weiner, UConn’s vice president for global affairs, said that the agreement demonstrates the complementary strengths and interests of UConn and KAUST.

“Both institutions are investing in translational research that produces scalable solutions for contemporary societal problems,” Weiner says. “UConn is very proud to collaborate with KAUST. They are a leading global research university with outstanding students and faculty.”

Due to its location, UConn is ideally positioned to access the technological corridor between Boston and New York City.

“This agreement reinforces KAUST’s position as a global connector to key innovation zones globally and strengthens our strategic alignment with Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 in key innovation priorities in technology,” says Ian Campbell, vice president of the KAUST National Transformation Institute (NTI).

Through the inauguration of its National Transformational Institute (NTI) and its four Centers of Excellence, KAUST has intensified its commitment to innovation in AI, healthcare, energy and sustainability as well as their commercialization to help Saudi Arabia realize its ambitious economic diversification goals.