King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST) celebrates the achievements of its internationally recognized alumnae, including Dr. Fatimah Abdulhakim, who holds a Ph.D. in environmental science and engineering and is among this year’s L’Oréal-UNESCO For Women in Science Middle East Regional Young Talents Program honorees. 

The L’Oréal-UNESCO program recognizes emerging female researchers whose work addresses global challenges across science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM). Abdulhakim, a Saudi plant scientist, was selected for her research on how plants defend themselves against disease and environmental stress. Her findings shed new light on an essential RNA-binding protein that serves as a molecular switch for immune signaling and stress responses. 

She also identified how this protein supports the formation of cellular compartments that help plants reorganize their machinery under heat stress. Her discoveries provide a foundation for developing crops with stronger immunity and resilience, reducing reliance on pesticides, improving yields, and strengthening food security. 

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