The King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST) recently hosted a young and enthusiastic Master’s student from Luxembourg, who participated in the yearly SNSL-workshop (Stochastic Numerics and Statistical Learning: Theory and Applications Workshop 2024). KAUST, known for its cutting-edge research and dedication to fostering young talented students, warmly welcomed the visitor, marking yet another milestone in its commitment to global academic collaboration.
Luxembourg, a small yet prosperous European country known for its strong financial sector and multilingual population, is making strides in the academic world through its talented students. This particular student is pursuing his Master’s degree in Mathematics at RWTH Aachen University, one of Germany’s leading institutions renowned for its excellence in engineering, technology, and applied sciences.
The workshop was organized by Prof. Raul F. Tempone, a founding member of KAUST and a Humboldt Professor at RWTH Aachen University. Professor Raul Tempone is a distinguished academic who holds professorial positions at both RWTH Aachen University in Germany and King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST) in Saudi Arabia. As a dedicated leader, he heads two dynamic research groups, fostering an environment of rich intellectual exchange and collaboration between these institutions.
Prof. Tempone excels in nurturing the next generation of researchers, particularly through his mentorship of Master’s and Bachelor’s students. His efforts to attract talented young minds to KAUST are part of his broader mission to inspire a commitment to academia and research among his students. Over the past five years, his exceptional guidance has led to the successful recruitment of numerous young scholars to KAUST. These individuals, equipped with the knowledge and expertise gained during their time in Germany, are now contributing to the advancement of Saudi Arabian society.
Saudi Arabia, with its rapidly growing economy and abundant resources, provides a fertile ground for these young researchers. The country’s youth and potential for development make it an ideal environment for innovative academic pursuits. Prof. Tempone’s work not only bridges the gap between German and Saudi academic cultures but also plays a crucial role in the ongoing development of Saudi Arabia’s scientific and technological landscape. In an exclusive interview, we had the opportunity to sit down with the student to discuss his experience at KAUST.
KAUST: What motivated you to visit our university and participate in the stochastic workshop?
Student: I started working on stochastic numerics at the end of my bachelor’s degree. One of the main reasons why I adore working in this field is its multidisciplinary nature. When I was invited to attend a conference that hosts many of the world’s leading researchers in stochastic numerics, I saw an excellent opportunity to deepen my knowledge of the presented topics and get to know many researchers with similar scientific interests.
KAUST: What were your expectations before arriving at KAUST, and have they been met?
Student: I expected to hear many new ideas and thoughts to help me improve my research. In addition, I also hoped to get to know other academics from around the world and see how they work on current problems in our field. I’m happy to say that my expectations have been met and exceeded. The faculty and students here are incredibly welcoming and knowledgeable, and the resources available are world-class. I had the opportunity to meet many incredible people from KAUST and around the world, with whom I was able to share ideas and thoughts.
KAUST: How do you find the atmosphere and the environment here at KAUST?
Student: The atmosphere is vibrant and inspiring. There’s a strong sense of community and a shared passion for pushing the boundaries of knowledge. The campus itself is beautiful, and the facilities are top-notch. In addition, I have yet to see study rooms that can keep up with the library and the other study rooms. It’s a place that fosters both academic and personal growth. The cultural exchange aspect is also enriching, as I’ve had the chance to interact with people worldwide.
KAUST: Could you share more about your background and studies at RWTH Aachen University?
Student: Certainly! I’ve been studying mathematics at RWTH Aachen University since 2018. RWTH is renowned for its strong emphasis on engineering and technical sciences, and it’s consistently ranked among the top universities in Germany and Europe. The rigorous curriculum and the opportunity to work on real-world problems have significantly shaped my analytical and problem-solving skills. The university’s collaborative environment has also prepared me for interdisciplinary research, which is crucial in fields like stochastic numerics.
KAUST: Do you feel that your time here will benefit your future academic and professional en-deavours?
Student: Absolutely. The knowledge and insights I’ve gained here are invaluable. The experience has broadened my perspective and equipped me with new skills to apply in my future research. Additionally, my new connections with faculty and fellow students will benefit my academic and professional network.
KAUST: Would you recommend KAUST to other international students? If so, why?
Student: Without hesitation. KAUST offers a unique blend of academic excellence, cutting-edge research opportunities, and a multicultural environment. Growing up in Luxembourg, I have always thought that I am already from a culturally diverse background. But I would certainly recommend visiting or studying at KAUST since you will experience the same diversity on a worldwide level instead of just on a European level. KAUST is a place where students are encouraged to think critically and creatively. For anyone looking to challenge themselves and be part of a forward-thinking community, KAUST is the perfect choice.
KAUST: Any final thoughts you’d like to share about your visit?
Student: I’m incredibly grateful for the opportunity to visit KAUST and participate in the workshop. It has been an enriching experience on many levels. I’ve learned a lot, made meaningful connections, and experienced the warmth and hospitality of the KAUST community. I look forward to applying what I’ve learned and hopefully returning to KAUST.
KAUST: I am just curious. Being from Luxembourg, have you ever heard about KAUST or Saudi
Arabia in general?
Student: I was well aware of Saudi Arabia. One frequently hears and reads in the newspapers about its rapid development and ambitious projects like Neom. There’s also a lot of buzz about tourism in places like AlUla and snorkelling in the Red Sea. However, I was unaware of KAUST until I started working with Prof. Tempone’s chair.
For more information about KAUST and its programs, visit www.kaust.edu.sa.