Imran Ansari graduated from KAUST in March 2015 with a Ph.D. in electrical engineering and joined Texas A & M at Qatar, Doha, Qatar, as a PDRA Postdoc Research Fellow after graduation, then British University in Oman, Muscat, Oman, as Assistant Professor, and then in August 2018
the University of Glasgow, Scotland, UK. He describes himself as an optical wireless communications enthusiast who works towards enhancing current wireless connectivity to provide more secure means of wireless information transfer.

"For wireless information transfer—in which I have been involved recently—to have a positive and long-term impact, these communications technologies are being dealt with under the umbrella of 5G and beyond, thereby allowing me to contribute towards an important step in our wireless communication lives," Ansari said.

In early 2009, Ansari received a bachelor's degree from King Fahd University of Petroleum and Minerals (KFUPM). Ansari noted that some of the exciting and unique traits found at KAUST were a major factor in his decision to pursue his academic research at the University.

"KAUST provides unparalleled resources similar to the world's best schools around the globe in terms of faculty, research facilities and a competitive research environment, leading to advancements in knowledge and learning. These exciting traits made me come to KAUST," he said.

"During my time at the University, I flourished both personally and in my academic pursuits. Quite frequently I look back on my time at KAUST and at different moments that helped me to keep moving forward and continue to be positive and determined. KAUST is an eternal part of my life," he added.

Ansari advises current students to make the best of their time at the University and to take advantage of the opportunities on offer at KAUST.

"The chances you have at KAUST rarely come by again," he said. "Set clear realistic targets for yourself and stick to them. This dedication will help you go a long way in your chosen career or field. Be assured that as you grow professionally in academia and/or industry, those targets will be amplified and you will need to continue to be determined and confident enough to attain them."