Postdoctoral Researcher / Research Scientist in ore mineralogy and geochemistry

King Abdullah University of Science and Technology; Thuwal; Sur place; SAR 120 000 - 180 000; Plein temps

Résumé du poste

KAUST in Saudi Arabia invites applications for a two-year Postdoc position in Earth Science and Engineering within the Mineral Exploration and Exploitation Group. The project focuses on developing workflows for mineralogical and geochemical characterization of ore materials using µXRF-mapping, SEM‑based automated mineralogy, and LA‑ICP‑MS, with potential XRD support.

The successful candidate will apply these workflows to regional ore deposits to understand genesis and exploration potential, and

Qualifications

• PhD in geosciences, chemistry, or material science.
• Experience with at least one analytical technique: X-ray spectroscopy, SEM, or laser‑ablation ICP‑MS; willingness to master others.
• Excellent English communication skills with strong publication/conference record.
• Coding experience in Python or R and interest in data science and machine learning.

Responsabilités

• Develop workflows for mineralogical and geochemical characterization of ore materials using µXRF-mapping, SEM-based automated mineralogy and LA-ICP-MS.
• Apply workflows to Saudi Arabian ore deposits to understand genesis and exploration potential.
• Optimize data integration and measurement protocols across different data types.
• Collaborate with group members on applying workflows to chosen case studies.

Connaissances

Python

R

Data science

Machine learning

Communication

Formation

PhD in geosciences, chemistry, or material science

Outils

X-ray spectroscopy

SEM

Laser‑ablation ICP‑MS

Description du poste

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

Apr 21, 2025

Description

Professor Max Frenzel is currently recruiting for a 2-year Post‑doc 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. 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.

Conditions and life at KAUST

Applications are sought for a two-year Postdoc position (extendable). 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 position), 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.

Qualifications

Qualified applicants will hold a PhD in the geosciences, chemistry, material science, or another relevant discipline.

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, as well as the willingness to master the other techniques required for the position.

Strong candidates will also have 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, as well as in data science and machine learning are desirable.

As soon as possible, ideally within Q4 2025.