Postdoctoral Researcher / Research Scientist in Data Science for Mineral Exploration

Physical Science and Engineering Division

Organisation / Company KAUST Department Physical Science and Engineering Division Research Field Geosciences » Geology Geosciences » Other Mathematics » Statistics Mathematics » 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 position (extendable) to join the new Mineral Exploration and Exploitation Group at KAUST. The focus of the position will be on the development of new methods integrating a variety of data types (remote sensing, geology, geophysics, geochemistry) for geological modelling and advanced exploration targeting of mineral deposits. These workflows will then be applied in relevant Saudi Arabian contexts to help discover new ore deposits.

The position will combine techniques from geological modelling, geostatistics, machine learning, and potentially geophysics (inversion) to develop new exploration targeting methods. These will be designed to make the most of the excellent outcrop conditions in Saudi Arabia, which means that a particular focus will be placed on the use of remote sensing data. Other relevant data types are geological maps, geophysical surveys (gravity, electromagnetic, seismic), and soil or stream sediment geochemistry. In terms of the application to specific regions in Saudi Arabia, the candidate will be free to choose their own case study(s). The willingness to collaborate closely with local exploration companies is expected.

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.

• Excellent coding skills in python, R, or another relevant language are expected, as demonstrated by previously completed projects.
• Strong candidates will also have a firm background in geostatistics, geospatial modelling, and / or data science.
• Excellent oral and written communication skills in English are required, as evidenced by a strong publication and conference presentation record.
• In addition, candidates should hold a driver’s licence or be willing to acquire one, and should be willing to undertake fieldwork.
• Experience in the mineral resource sector is desirable but not essential.
• Experience in conducting UAV surveys is desirable but not essential.
• 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 Physics » OtherGeosciencesEngineering » Geological 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 interviewed on a rolling basis, starting from June 1, 2025.

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