King Abdullah University of Science and Technology, (KAUST) and the Bruker Corporation recently signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) officially launching the KAUST–Bruker Center of Excellence (CoE) in Magnetic Resonance. The agreement marks the culmination of a long and mutually beneficial association between the two organizations.
“Scientific advancement is dependent on the close relationship between research and technological developments,” said Professor Jean M.J. Fréchet, senior vice president for research, innovation, and economic development at KAUST.
“The KAUST-Bruker CoE offers all KAUST users the exceptional opportunity to work with technologies at the very frontline of innovation, adapting them to suit their specific research needs. This CoE will also serve as a launch pad for new technologies, providing the region with an international demonstration and training site.”
This level of enhanced support from Bruker, in conjunction with the university’s expert staff, comprehensive research ecosystem and magnetic resonance research infrastructure, places KAUST in a preeminent position in Saudi Arabia, the region and the international scientific community. “Bruker’s philosophy of relentless innovation and our long track record in developing leading analytical instrumentation and enabling scientific tools is based on close relationships with our customers,” said Frank Laukien, president and CEO of Bruker Corporation. “Our long and fruitful relationship with KAUST and its world-class researchers is an example of how a symbiotic vendor-customer relationship leads to better instruments and scientific outcomes.”
The daylong program of events marking the new partnership included a tour of the KAUST Imaging and Characterization Core Lab, and concluded in the Nuclear Magnetic Resonance (NMR) unit, where a number of Bruker technologies were demonstrated. These included the world’s first 900 MHz wide-bore NMR spectrometer, the 950 MHz NMR, the Dynamic Nuclear Polarization (DNP) NMR system, as well as the first 500 MHz super wide-bore MRI spectrometer.
A technical forum was also held, including talks by Bruker delegates, members of the KAUST faculty, and staff from the KAUST Core Labs, to showcase Bruker technologies and their applications in research and scientific development.
The launch of the KAUST-Bruker CoE is part of an effort to closely align KAUST with world-class vendors. CoEs function as on-campus technology hubs — primed to train and inspire students and staff.
KAUST-Bruker CoE in magnetic resonance inaugurated
KAUST-Bruker CoE in magnetic resonance inaugurated
LuLu Walkathon: 22,000 participants champion greener future
Alkhobar’s New Corniche transformed into a vibrant hub of energy and community spirit when more than 22,000 people gathered for the highly anticipated “LuLu Walkathon.” Organized by LuLu Saudi Hypermarket, the 3-km event was held under the patronage of the Ministry of Sport and Alkhobar municipality on Jan. 31. The walkathon successfully united the community under the themes of health and environmental sustainability.
The event was held with the cooperation of Meshaal Al-Harbi, head of Alkhobar municipality, and Tareq Al-Qahtani, director of the Ministry of Sport’s Eastern Province branch. The official flag-off was performed by Mohammed Haris, director of LuLu Hypermarket Saudi Arabia.
This year’s walkathon went beyond fitness, offering a rich tapestry of entertainment including soulful traditional Arabic music, a contemporary violin performance, and a playful “donuts dance,” which ensured a festive atmosphere for families of all ages.
A major highlight of the morning was the presence of Khadra. Khadra served as a living reminder of the Kingdom’s deep-rooted cultural artistry, posing for photos with the thousands of participants who lined the coast. To ensure every attendee felt the spirit of the celebration, participants were geared up with a premium merchandise kit containing custom-branded T-shirts and caps. Furthermore, every individual who successfully completed the 3-km route was rewarded with an exclusive LuLu goodie bag at the finish line to celebrate their achievement.
Sustainability remained a core pillar for the LuLu Walkathon this year, reflecting the brand’s long-term environmental vision. LuLu’s staff managed the route with a strict focus on environmental responsibility, while strategically placed refreshment stalls kept walkers hydrated without compromising the pristine condition of the corniche.
The massive success of the event was supported by key partners, including MasterCard as the commercial sponsor and Nada, which provided vital refreshments, alongside significant support from Radio Mirchi and Alyaum newspaper.
“The walkathon concluded not just as a race, but as a meaningful tribute to the Kingdom’s past and a definitive step toward a sustainable future,” a statement said. “By blending physical activity with cultural celebration and environmental stewardship, LuLu Hypermarket reaffirmed its commitment to the Saudi community, promoting an active, engaged, and responsible lifestyle for all residents.”
