Postdoctoral Researcher / Research Scientist in Ore Mineralogy and Geochemistry

Physical Science and Engineering Division

Organisation/Company KAUST Department Physical Science and Engineering Division Research Field Geosciences " Other Researcher Profile First Stage Researcher (R1) Recognised Researcher (R2) Established Researcher (R3) Positions Postdoc Positions Country Saudi Arabia Application Deadline 31 May 2026 - 23:59 (Asia/Riyadh) Type of Contract Temporary Job Status Full-time Hours Per Week 40 Offer Starting Date 1 Jun 2025 Is the job funded through the EU Research Framework Programme? Not funded by a EU programme Is the Job related to staff position within a Research Infrastructure? No

Offer Description

Professor Max Frenzel is currently recruiting for a 2-year Post-doc / Research Scientist position (extendable) to join the new Mineral Exploration and Exploitation Group at KAUST. The focus of the position will be on the development and implementation of new workflows for the mineralogical and geochemical characterization of ore materials, using combined µXRF-mapping, SEM-based automated mineralogy, and laser ablation ICP-MS, potentially complemented by powder X-ray diffraction. These workflows will then be applied to selected Saudi Arabian ore deposits to understand their genesis and exploration potential. In addition, the generated data can be used to optimize mineral extraction processes from existing mines within a geometallurgical framework.

The position will mostly focus on the development of measurement protocols and data integration methods for the different data types. In terms of applications, the candidate will be free to choose their own case study(s). Additionally, close collaboration with other group members is expected for the application of the developed workflows.

Saudi Arabia is a fast-developing country offering unparalleled opportunities in mineral resources and other geoscience-related fields. In particular, the recent opening of Saudi Arabia for international exploration companies has led to a substantial increase of activity in the mineral exploration sector. Given the great geological potential of Saudi Arabia for different types of mineral deposits, it is probably the country with the most exciting mineral exploration opportunities right now.

• Detailed experience in the use of at least one of the following analytical techniques for material characterization: X-ray spectroscopy, scanning electron microscopy, and/or laser-ablation ICP-MS is expected
• Willingness to master the other techniques required for the position.
• Excellent oral and written communication skills in English, as evidenced by a strong publication and conference presentation record.
• Experience in coding, particularly in python or R for data science and machine learning applications, are desirable.
• Willingness to participate in field work and sample collection is also desirable.
• A completed PhD is sufficient for appointment as a postdoctoral researcher. For appointment as a research scientist, additional research experience of at least 2 years is required in the relevant areas highlighted above.

Specific Requirements

• English (C1 / IELTS 7.0 equivalent or better)

Level Good

Research Field GeosciencesChemistryEngineering " Materials engineering Years of Research Experience None

Additional Information

The position will include a competitive salary based on the candidate's qualifications and experience; benefits include medical and dental insurance, free housing on the KAUST campus, an annual travel allowance, 30 paid vacation days, and other generous benefits. KAUST is a vibrant and international community, with many opportunities for social, sporting, and learning activities outside of work.

The successful applicant will be associated with the new Mineral Exploration and Exploitation Group at KAUST. The group will commence work in August 2025. Its main aim is to contribute to the development of mineral resources in Saudi Arabia by developing innovative approaches to mineral exploration, mining, and mineral processing. The working group will initially consist of 1 PhD student and 2 MSc students, but is projected to grow to 2 postdocs (incl. this positions), 3 PhD students, and a variable number of MSc students. In addition, KAUST provides a highly collaborative research environment, and active engagement of the holder of the position in collaborative activities within and outside of the research group will be strongly encouraged and supported.

Eligibility criteria

Applicants must hold a PhD degree in a relevant discipline, as listed above, and must demonstrate fluency in English in writing, speaking and listening at the indicated level.

Selection process

Received applications will be reviewed and suitable candidates will be interviewed on a rolling basis, starting from June 1, 2025.