Research Chairs
1. Prince Sultan Research Chair for Environment and Wildlife
Based on the interest of His Royal Highness Prince Sultan bin Abdulaziz (may he rest in peace) in the local environment and its natural components, and his well-known support and care for all activities aimed at preserving the environment and local wildlife, His Highness approved on the 32nd of Jumada Al-Awwal 1428 AH (corresponding to June 9, 2007) the establishment and funding of the Prince Sultan Research Chair for Environment and Wildlife at King Saud University.
Objectives of the Chair
The main objectives include conducting priority studies and research to conserve the environment and wildlife, fostering scientific collaboration among environmental specialists, training qualified personnel in environmental and wildlife fields, offering expertise and consultations to relevant governmental and private entities, and establishing lasting connections with renowned global institutions by regularly hosting scientists to engage in research programs at Saudi universities.
Tasks of the Chair:
- Conducting Research: The Chair will carry out both fundamental and applied studies, such as specialized environmental studies to identify ecosystem patterns and their biological components, species inventory studies in Saudi Arabia, genetic research to document genetic fingerprints of species, and registering scientific research internationally to protect intellectual property rights.
- Supporting Graduate Studies: The Chair will attract distinguished students to pursue master’s and doctoral studies in environment and wildlife fields and support undergraduate projects, guiding them towards environmental and wildlife research.
- Localizing Technology: The Chair will serve as a hub for localizing advanced technologies for environmental and wildlife research and acquiring state-of-the-art equipment for scientific studies.
- Providing Consultations: Due to the limited number of specialists, the Chair will offer scientific consultations to interested parties, both governmental and private, for a fee that could eventually support the Chair's financial sustainability.
- Organizing Workshops and Seminars: The Chair will organize events to keep researchers updated on global developments and raise public awareness of environmental issues impacting community well-being.
Supervisory Committee:
- Prof. Ibrahim bin Abdulwahad Aref (Supervisor)
- Prof. Ali bin Abdullah Al-Humaidan (Member)
- Prof. Ahmed bin Hamad Al-Farhan (Member)
Implemented Activities:
Notable activities include appointing a distinguished professor, hiring a British consultant, launching a bilingual website, publishing a brochure in Arabic and English, setting up a dedicated office, and procuring necessary scientific equipment.
Beneficiaries and Focus Areas:
The Chair's programs benefit society broadly by promoting environmental knowledge and culture. It serves researchers and specialists particularly, focusing on life sciences, local natural environments, wildlife, and reintroducing native species.
Projects:
The Chair organized a workshop on May 11, 2008, discussing local environmental and wildlife issues and presenting practical recommendations, supporting high-level academic research, and promoting technology localization for environmental studies. It also offers scientific consultations for both public and private sectors.
Address:
College of Science, King Saud University
Building No. 5, 2nd Floor, Office 2B 63
P.O. Box 2455, Riyadh 11451
Website: www.Psrcew.com
Phone: +966 11 4675838
Fax: +966 11 4679983
2. Diriyah Environmental Studies Chair
The Diriyah Environmental Studies Chair was established at King Saud University on April 25, 1431 AH. The Chair focuses on the environment of Diriyah from engineering and scientific perspectives, with a vision to become a leading environmental program both locally and globally and transform Diriyah into a model eco-city.
Vision
To lead in environmental programs locally and globally and achieve a model eco-city.
Mission
Towards a clean environment for sustainable development.
Objectives:
- Preserve natural environmental resources.
- Achieve sustainable development in a balanced environment.
- Create cultural, social, and recreational spaces.
- Promote the concept of a model eco-city.
Address:
College of Science, King Saud University
Building No. 5, 2nd Floor, Office 2B 61
P.O. Box 2455, Riyadh 11451
Website: https://c.ksu.edu.sa/aces
3. Climate Change, Environmental Development, and Vegetation Cover Research Chair
Saudi Arabia places great importance on environmental protection. Vision 2030 emphasizes environmental stewardship as a duty and responsibility toward future generations. The Climate Change and Environmental Development Chair at King Saud University addresses climate change's impact on the environment and vegetation, contributing to Vision 2030 by conducting scientific research, raising environmental awareness, and enhancing Saudi Arabia’s global environmental role.
Vision
Sustainable environmental preservation and enhancing vegetation's role in combating climate change.
Mission
To excel in research and knowledge, conduct impactful studies, increase societal awareness, and build partnerships to support vegetation in sustainable environmental preservation.
Objectives:
- Advance environmental research and technology.
- Establish scientific partnerships locally and internationally.
- Train national personnel in environmental fields.
- Expand environmental literature.
- Raise environmental awareness.
- Promote Saudi environmental efforts at national and international forums.
- Collaborate with national organizations.
- Digitally document Saudi Arabia's vegetation.
Supervisor: Dr. Asma bint Abdulkarim Al-Huqail
Website: https://climatechange.ksu.edu.sa/ar
Email: Climatechange@ksu.edu.sa
4. COVID-19 Virus Research Chair
The COVID-19 Virus Research Chair develops strategies for the rapid detection, tracking, and control of the virus. It also addresses contemporary and emerging viruses to prevent their spread, focusing on health, economic, and social impacts.
Vision
To be a leading research entity in COVID-19 and emerging strains in the Kingdom, aiming to predict and curb viral outbreaks.
Mission
To establish a comprehensive database for COVID-19 and study virus evolution, aiding in the development of control mechanisms to reduce the impact on public health and the economy.
Objectives:
- Develop Strategic Plans: Strategies for quick detection and control of COVID-19 and emerging viruses.
- Effective Diagnostic Kits: High-efficiency kits for human and animal virus detection.
- Monitor Virus Evolution: Continuous tracking of COVID-19 evolution through epidemiological studies.
- Study Genetic Variation: Research genetic diversity in virus strains to predict dangerous variants.
- Develop Vaccines and Treatments: Using molecular techniques to create safe and effective solutions.
Supervisor: Prof. Fahd bin Nasser Al-Majhadi
Address:
King Saud University / College of Science / Department of Botany and Microbiology
P.O. Box 2455, Riyadh 11452
Phone: +966 11 4677778
Email: majhdi@ksu.edu.sa