Two researchers affiliated with King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST) in Saudi Arabia have been named 2026 honorees of the L’Oréal-UNESCO For Women in Science Middle East Regional Young Talents programme. The university announced it on 22 October, saying it is the fourth year in a row that KAUST scientists have received the recognition.
Alaa Almushaikeh, a PhD candidate in applied physics, works on high-performance scintillators, materials that turn X-rays into light that cameras and detectors can read. The aim is more affordable X-ray imaging with better quality and efficiency, with possible uses in medical diagnostics and security screening.
Aljawharah Alrubayyi, a postdoctoral fellow, was honoured for research on immunology and viral infections. She also works at University College London and the Ragon Institute of Mass General Brigham, MIT and Harvard. The programme recognises early-career women whose work addresses major scientific challenges.
