King Abdulaziz City for Science and Technology (KACST) hosted Saudi scientist Professor Omar Yaghi, the recipient of the 2025 Nobel Prize in Chemistry, at its headquarters in Riyadh today for an inspiring scientific session with students of the 2026 Mawhiba Research Enrichment Program. The event was attended by President of KACST and Acting Governor of the Research, Development and Innovation Authority (RDIA) Prof. Munir Eldesouki, along with a number of leaders from the Kingdom’s research, development and innovation ecosystem.
During the session, Professor Yaghi reflected on key milestones in his scientific journey, saying that from the outset of his career he deliberately chose to take on scientific challenges that many believed were impossible to solve. Despite skepticism in parts of the academic community, he remained committed to his research until 1995, when he pioneered a new field in reticular chemistry through the development of Metal–Organic Frameworks (MOFs). That breakthrough established his international scientific reputation and later led to his receiving the 2025 Nobel Prize in Chemistry.
KACST
Professor Yaghi said his journey has been driven by a mindset of constant renewal, approaching each stage as an opportunity to think like a researcher starting from scratch while continuing to expand his knowledge and expertise. He stressed that lifelong learning remains the foundation of success, regardless of one’s achievements.
He also emphasized that independent thinking and avoiding imitation are essential principles of scientific research. Researchers, he said, forge their own paths through original ideas, curiosity and the courage to pursue questions that have not been explored before. Recalling his early years in the laboratory, he said repeated unsuccessful experiments only strengthened his determination to persevere until he reached meaningful discoveries.
Professor Yaghi further noted that scientific progress depends on continuously seeking environments that foster discovery and innovation, collaborating with leading researchers worldwide, maintaining a commitment to lifelong learning, and embracing opportunities that strengthen research expertise.
The session concluded with an interactive discussion between Professor Yaghi and the program’s gifted students, during which he answered questions about scientific research in chemistry, building a successful academic career, developing research and experimental skills, and the importance of passion and perseverance in achieving scientific excellence.
The event is part of KACST’s ongoing efforts to support national talent by connecting young researchers with world-renowned scientists and providing an environment that nurtures research and innovation. Through such initiatives, KACST aims to strengthen students’ research capabilities and prepare a new generation of researchers equipped to contribute to priority scientific and technological fields in the Kingdom.
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