IBM partners in new Saudi nanotech centre

A nanotechnology centre is to be established by King Abdulaziz City for Science and Technology (Kacst), Saudi Arabia’s national research and development organisation, in association with IBM.

The facility will explore and develop means of applying molecular-scale engineering to energy and sustainable resource issues.

Saudi scientists and engineers will work side-by-side with IBM scientists and engineers on advanced nano-science and nano-technology programmes in the fields of solar energy, desalination and petrochemical applications such as recyclable materials.

“Working with IBM, one of the leading global technology companies and the world’s largest nanotechnology research institution, not only helps us to address important scientific and economic challenges to the Kingdom such as energy and desalination but also helps us to evolve our strategy and take our research efforts to new heights,” said Kacst President Dr Mohammed Al Suwaiyel.

“This type of joint technology development agreement is critical for the Kingdom as it builds its capabilities in advanced scientific research and further development.”

William LaFontaine Jr, IBM’s vice-president of business development and licensing, said:

“Today’s announcement demonstrates that when it comes to creating renewable energy or clean drinking water the nature of innovation is changing to become a more global and far more collaborative process.”