9th June 2023, Kathmandu
HKUST Professor Zexiang Li Appointed Visiting Distinguished Professor at KAUST: Robotics and Innovation Expert Joins Saudi Arabia’s Leading Science University
Hong Kong University of Science and Technology’s (HKUST) renowned Professor of Electrical Computer and Engineering, Zexiang Li, has been appointed as a visiting distinguished professor at King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST).
With extensive expertise in robotics, education, innovation, and entrepreneurship, Professor Li’s arrival is expected to have a significant impact on KAUST’s research and development initiatives.
Having pursued his education in the United States, Professor Zexiang Li returned to Hong Kong in 1992 to join HKUST as a faculty member.
Throughout his career, he has played a pivotal role in nurturing the next generation of business leaders and establishing an incubation academy that has funded robotics and artificial intelligence startups valued at an impressive $12 billion.
Professor Li holds a bachelor’s degree (with honors) in Electrical Engineering and Economics from Carnegie-Mellon University, as well as an MA degree in Mathematics and a Ph.D. degree in Electrical Engineering and Computer Science from the University of California at Berkeley.
Recognized for his significant contributions to the field, Professor Zexiang Li was awarded the prestigious IEEE Robotics and Automation Award in 2019.
His groundbreaking work in the development of civilian drones, aerial imaging technology, robotics engineering, and innovation and entrepreneurship has earned him global acclaim.
“We are delighted to welcome Professor Zexiang Li to KAUST and Saudi Arabia,” expressed Hattan Ahmed, director of entrepreneurship at KAUST. “Professor Li’s track record includes successfully bringing several of China’s most influential robotics and AI startups to market, such as DJI, CiDi, EcoFlow, and Narwal.
His expertise in transforming research and mentoring students will undoubtedly have a transformative effect on scaling our deep tech startup spinouts from KAUST and fostering connections with the Chinese ecosystem.”
By leveraging Professor Zexiang Li’s invaluable experience and expertise, KAUST aims to strengthen its position as a leader in science and technology, further enhancing its research capabilities and fostering innovation-driven entrepreneurship.
