Jul 23, 2025

A Young Scholar’s Global Research Journey

This summer, Alaa Al-Shaikhi, a standout student from the College of Chemicals and Materials at KFUPM, took her passion for research across borders through the KFUPM Young Scholar Fellowship. This elite 8-week program empowers exceptional undergraduates to participate in global research experiences, offering them a chance to collaborate with renowned international faculty on real-world projects — all made possible with KFUPM’s full academic and financial support.

Alaa’s journey led her to The University of Manchester in the UK, where she worked under the guidance of Dr. Abdalla Omar on a pioneering biomedical project: developing a 3D-printed heart stent using PLA/PCL materials. The problem Alaa is working on, is a medical crisis being addressed by the NHS, BHF, and other medical institutes. Where thousands of lives can be saved by 3D printing low-cost, customized stents for overburdened medical systems.

But beyond the lab, this experience was also personally impactful for Alaa.

“I joined to understand how others around the world think and work,” she shared. “It opened my mind, sharpened my research and critical thinking skills, and gave me a deeper sense of purpose as a material science researcher.”

She also carried with her a strong sense of national pride: “Representing Saudi Arabia is a responsibility and an honor. I wanted to serve as a bridge between local and global research efforts, and to proudly showcase what Saudi students are capable of.”

While adjusting to a new environment came with its challenges, Alaa credits the support of the host university and research team for helping her through the adjustment phase of her journey. With each day, what started as uncertainty transformed into confidence, resilience, and growth.

Looking ahead, Alaa plans to engage in international conferences and continue pursuing research, especially in areas of innovation and sustainable development. Through the KFUPM Young Scholar Fellowship, more students, just like her, will have the opportunity to develop global perspectives and explore impactful research. Her advice to them is “Take initiative. Say yes to global opportunities. Every challenge you face abroad is a step forward in your personal and academic journey. Dream big, and carry the flag of our country with pride wherever you go.”