A Lebanese professor at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), specializing in wireless technology and wireless sensing, has been honored as the second recipient of the prestigious Great Arab Minds Award. Fadil Adib, an associate professor at MIT, received the 2023 award in the field of engineering and technology. His research, which has significantly advanced wireless sensing technology, was highlighted in the award announcement.
Professor Adib expressed his excitement about receiving the award, noting the importance of being a role model for the younger Arab generation. Growing up in Tripoli, he wished for a similar recognition that could have alleviated self-doubt and inspired others to make impactful contributions in technology and science.
His groundbreaking research includes developments in through-wall vision and sensing technologies, which have applications in detecting objects and vibrations behind walls, under rubble, and more. Professor Adib has also contributed significantly to ocean exploration, advancing deep-sea exploration through the development of battery-free devices powered by ocean waves.
Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid, Vice President and Ruler of Dubai, announced the award and commended Professor Adib for his impressive work. Sheikh Mohammed emphasized that the award aims to boost Arab individualsā confidence in their abilities and introduce them to exemplary role models.
Professor Adibās notable achievements include publishing over 80 research papers and holding patents in engineering and technology. His contributions have been pivotal in wireless sensing, particularly in wireless communication and object and vibration detection behind walls and under rubble.
The Great Arab Minds initiative, established by Sheikh Mohammed in January of the previous year, aims to identify and utilize the brightest minds in the Arab world. The initiative operates from Dubaiās Museum of the Future and has a budget of Dh100 million ($27.22 million), managed by four cabinet ministers.
After graduating from the American University of Beirut and earning his Masters and PhD from MIT, Professor Adibās research led to several start-ups, including Cartesian Systems and Emerald Innovations. His innovations have been used in remote health monitoring and demonstrated to President Barack Obama.
His current projects include battery-free underwater cameras for exploring oceans, tracking pollution, and studying climate change effects.
The Great Arab Minds Award in Medicine was awarded last month to US-based Saudi surgeon Dr. Hani Najm for his groundbreaking heart surgery techniques.
The initiativeās DHS100 million fund supports Arab innovators and aims to prevent brain drain by encouraging talents to stay and contribute to their home countries. It focuses on translating ideas into real-life breakthroughs and building a network of exceptional Arab talent across various fields.
