Riyadh, 6 Dhu al-Qi'dah 1447 AH (23 April 2026)

The Creativity and Innovation Exhibition at King Saud University featured a distinguished scientific contribution from Dr. Ahmed Lafi Al Aufi, Professor of Biotechnology in the Department of Pharmaceutics at the College of Pharmacy and Director of the college's Research Center, among a select group of Saudi researchers specializing in biotechnology and drug development, reflecting the advanced research activity in the Kingdom's health and pharmaceutical sector.

The participation is part of King Saud University's efforts to strengthen the environment for scientific innovation, support researchers and innovators, and highlight national achievements in biomedical research that serve people and develop future therapeutic solutions.

Advanced Research in Vaccines and Drug Design

Dr. Al Aufi's work spans an advanced scientific intersection of pharmaceutical sciences, structural biology and drug design, focusing on quality research including antiviral vaccines, antimicrobial peptides and molecular studies of proteins linked to serious viral diseases.

His research includes viruses of global impact such as the Zika virus and the Middle East Respiratory Syndrome coronavirus (MERS-CoV), with the aim of reaching innovative therapeutic solutions grounded in rigorous science and modern technology to confront future health challenges.

US Patents and Global Research Achievements

Dr. Al Aufi holds three US patents in medical and pharmaceutical technology, including two innovations in enhanced antimicrobial peptides proven effective against methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) and a number of drug-resistant bacterial strains, an important advance in combating antibiotic resistance.

He also developed an innovative method for treating Middle East Respiratory Syndrome using a natural flavonoid compound, a project that has drawn wide international interest for its scientific and applied value in treating complex viral diseases.

Silver Medal at the Geneva International Exhibition of Inventions 2026

This research project won the silver medal at the Geneva International Exhibition of Inventions 2026, an achievement that reflects the advanced level of Saudi scientific research and confirms Saudi researchers' ability to compete globally in medical innovation and biotechnology.

The international recognition extends a rich scientific career that helps establish the Kingdom as a regional and international center for advanced medical research and sustainable health innovation.

An Influential Role in National Health Innovation

Alongside his academic and research role, Dr. Al Aufi works within the Medical Technology Innovation Unit at King Saud University, contributing to the development of national regulatory policy and supporting the research and innovation ecosystem in the health sector, helping to build an integrated scientific environment that supports the shift toward an innovation-based knowledge economy.

His participation in the Creativity and Innovation Exhibition confirms King Saud University's leading role in nurturing national talent and strengthening the Kingdom's presence in scientific research and drug development, in line with Saudi Vision 2030.

At a Glance

  • Location: Riyadh
  • Institution: King Saud University
  • Field: biotechnology and drug development
  • Researcher: Dr. Ahmed Lafi Al Aufi
  • Achievement: 3 US patents and a silver medal at Geneva 2026
  • Goal: supporting scientific research and health innovation