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) in a project on exploration for Red Sea hydrothermal vent fields.
The Red Sea Rift hosts some of the world's largest known submarine hydrothermal systems and metalliferous sediment deposits, but active hydrothermal vent fields were discovered for the first time only in 2022 by our team. These extensive, low-temperature, microbe-dominated vent fields differ from most other locations and open a unique scientific frontier in hydrothermal research in a young ocean basin at the intersection of geology, tectonics, hydrothermal processes, deep-sea ecology, and mineral resources. A new interdisciplinary KAUST-funded project aims to conduct the first systematic investigation on the formation, dynamics and ecology of these vent systems.
The postdoctoral researcher will support the geological component of the project, to determine the formation, characteristics, extent and morphology of the hydrothermal vent fields. We are looking for a highly motivated, independent researcher to work with extensive datasets from multiple past and future expeditions, who takes ownership of their work. The core of the work involves geological and tectonic mapping of the Red Sea Rift and its hydrothermal systems, using bathymetric, geophysical (e.g., side-scan sonar, sub-bottom profiling), and oceanographic data, as well as ROV, submersible, and OFOS footage. The successful candidate will process and interpret hydroacoustic data, develop AI-supported predictive models for hydrothermal occurrence, and translate these into scientific outputs (peer-reviewed publications, informational maps, governance products). Further, contribution to planning and participation in seagoing expeditions is expected. The questions are partially open, and there is substantial room for the right person to shape the research direction. The role requires effective interdisciplinary teamwork, creativity, commitment, and scientific judgment, particularly in working with a highly diverse, partially challenging dataset.
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 within the project 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, Marine Geology, Marine Geophysics 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 hydroacoustic data processing, imaging and geological interpretation (e.g., multibeam bathymetry, sidescan sonar, sub-bottom profiling, photogrammetry)
- Strong background in geology and tectonic interpretation of volcanic seafloor features
- Experience participating in seagoing research expeditions
Desirable Qualifications
- Prior work on mid-ocean ridges, hydrothermal vent geology, seafloor massive sulfide deposits and/or marine mineral resources
- Expertise in predictive or machine learning-based spatial modeling in a geoscience context
- Experience with the operation of deep marine research instruments at sea
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.
