King Abdullah University of Science and Technology: Postdoc Positions: Physical Science and Engineering Division (postdoc): Earth Science and Engineering (postdoc)
Location
King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST)
Open Date
Aug 11, 2026
Description
The Volcanology, Igneous Petrology and Geochemistry group, under Prof. Froukje van der Zwan at KAUST is looking for an outstanding postdoctoral researcher for a 2-year position (extension possible) on VMS deposits in the Arabian Shield.
The Arabian Shield hosts numerous Proterozoic volcanic massive sulfide (VMS) deposits, including several world-class Cu-Zn-Au-Ag ores. With the rapidly growing interest in critical mineral exploration in Saudi Arabia, there is an increasing need for a fundamental geological understanding of these mineral systems to support exploration. Despite their economic importance, fundamental questions remain regarding the geological controls on the formation and evolution of these deposits, including their mineral assemblages, timing of mineralization, and ore-forming processes. The excellent outcrop exposure due to limited vegetation cover, and extensive mineral occurrences provide a unique natural laboratory to advance predictive mineral system models. Our research will aim to improve the geological understanding of VMS mineral systems to constrain the formation and preservation of these ancient hydrothermal systems and their resource potential.
The postdoctoral researcher will investigate the formation and evolution of Proterozoic VMS deposits of the Arabian Shield with combined geological and geochemical research. We are looking for a highly motivated, independent researcher to work on the geology, tectonics, geochemistry and geochronology of these systems, who takes ownership of their work. The project will involve fieldwork, including detailed geological mapping, and laboratory analyses, including petrography, geochronology, whole-rock and mineral geochemistry, integrated with regional geological and geophysical datasets to develop new mineral system models. The successful candidate will analyze, process and interpret the data independently, and translate these into scientific outputs (peer-reviewed publications, presentations, governance products). The research questions are partially open, providing substantial opportunity for the right person to shape the research direction. The position is part of a broader research program of the group, in line with KAUSTs Missions strategy, to investigate both ancient VMS deposits of the Arabian Shield and their modern hydrothermal analogues in the Red Sea and thus the role requires effective interdisciplinary teamwork, creativity, and commitment.
Working at KAUST
The successful applicant will be integrated in the Volcanology, Igneous Petrology and Geochemistry team, within the Earth Science and Engineering Program at KAUST. In the team, currently two research scientists, eight PhD students and one MSc student are working on varying projects related to resources and risks associated with volcanism and hydrothermalism in the Arabian Peninsula and the Red Sea.
KAUST is located on the shores of the Red Sea north of Jeddah, Saudi Arabia. KAUST provides a highly international research environment, and active engagement of the candidate in collaborative activities at KAUST and with international partners will be strongly encouraged and supported.
The position will include a competitive salary based on the candidates’ qualifications and experience; benefits include medical insurance, free housing on KAUST campus, an annual travel allowance, paid vacation, and other generous benefits. The university consists of a vibrant and international community, living and working on campus, with many opportunities for social, sporting, and learning activities outside of work.
Qualifications
Basic Qualifications
- PhD in Earth Sciences, Geosciences, Geochemistry, Mineralogy or a closely related relevant field
- Good oral and written communication skills in English as evidenced by a strong publication and conference presentation record.
- Proven ability to work independently and deliver
- Demonstrated independent capability in the analysis and interpretation of geochemical and geological data (e.g., XRF, (LA-)ICP-MS, EPMA, isotopes, geochronology)
- Strong background in economic geology and mineral resources
- Experience organizing and performing field expeditions
Desirable Qualifications
- Prior work on volcanic massive sulfide deposits
- Expertise in predictive or machine learning-based spatial modeling in a geoscience context
Application Instructions
Applications can be submitted by clicking on the "Apply Now" button.
Starting date: as soon as possible. Applications will be evaluated from the 1st of September onwards.
