Critical Minerals Faculty Position – KAUST

Job Description

Faculty Position in Critical Minerals – Physical Science and Engineering Division, KAUST

Location: King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST), Thuwal, Saudi Arabia | Division: Physical Science and Engineering (PSE) | Program: Earth Systems Science and Engineering, or Materials Science and Engineering & Applied Physics | Open Date: August 1, 2026 | Deadline: September 30, 2026

Description

The Physical Science and Engineering Division (PSE) of King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST) is seeking outstanding faculty candidates in research areas critical to the energy transition. These priorities aim to transform Saudi Arabia’s industry by enhancing its competitiveness in sustainability-focused sectors, including climate, carbon capture, utilization and storage, critical minerals, energy efficiency, renewable energy technologies, and sustainable fuels.

Within this framework, a faculty position in Critical Minerals is available in the Earth Systems Science and Engineering Program or the Materials Science and Engineering & Applied Physics Program.

Candidates with expertise in mineral processing and extractive metallurgy, particularly in critical minerals relevant to the energy transition, are encouraged to apply. A strong track record in experimental and computational research covering mineral processing operations (comminution and mineral separation), pyrometallurgy, and hydrometallurgy is essential. Finally, an interest in, and the ability to conduct, translational research applied to the mineral industry are highly desirable.

About KAUST and the PSE Division

KAUST is an international graduate research university dedicated to advancing science and technology through interdisciplinary research, education, and innovation. Ranked #1 in the Times Higher Education Arab University Rankings for three consecutive years (2023–2025), KAUST is recognized globally for the quality and impact of its research. Located in Saudi Arabia, on the western shores of the Red Sea, KAUST offers superb research facilities, generous baseline research funding, and internationally competitive salaries, together with comfortable living conditions for individuals and families.

The PSE Division comprises five programs: Chemical Engineering, Chemistry, Earth Systems Science and Engineering, Materials Science and Engineering & Applied Physics, and Mechanical Engineering. More information about the PSE Division is available at pse.kaust.edu.sa.

Qualifications

• Ph.D. degree
• Track record of research excellence demonstrated by impactful publications, or industrial experience demonstrated by intellectual property and product development
• Excellent oral and written English communication skills
• Ability to establish and lead a rigorous research program

Application Instructions

Applicants must complete an online application via the KAUST Faculty Positions portal, using the Interfolio online application system, and upload the following materials:

• Cover letter
• C.V., including a publication list
• Research plan (must not exceed 5 pages, including references)
• Teaching statement (must not exceed 2 pages, including references)
• Contact information for at least five potential referees (name, affiliation, and email)
• The five most relevant publications
• Web of Science, Scopus, or Google Scholar citation report

Job Summary

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