51 AI Lab jobs in Saudi Arabia

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SWATX is seeking a highly skilled and experienced Data Science Manager to lead our growing data science team. In this strategic role, you will be responsible for overseeing the development and implementation of data-driven solutions to solve complex business challenges. You will mentor and guide a team of data scientists, driving innovation and excellence in analytics and machine learning. If you are a strong leader with a passion for data science and a proven track record of delivering impactful solutions, we invite you to join us.

Responsibilities:

• Lead and mentor a team of data scientists, providing guidance on best practices in data analysis, machine learning, and statistical modeling
• Develop and execute the data science strategy aligned with business objectives, ensuring that data-driven insights are integrated into decision-making processes
• Oversee the design and implementation of innovative data science projects that drive value for the organization
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to identify opportunities for leveraging data to improve products, services, and operational efficiency
• Build and maintain strong relationships with stakeholders, understanding their data needs and ensuring timely delivery of insights
• Monitor and evaluate the performance of data science models and adjust strategies as necessary to achieve desired results
• Promote a data-driven culture within the organization by communicating the value of data science initiatives to stakeholders at all levels
• Stay updated on the latest trends and developments in data science and analytics, and integrate new methodologies and tools as appropriate
  
  

• Bachelor's or Master's degree in Data Science, Computer Science, Statistics, Mathematics, or a related field
• Proven experience in a data science role, with at least 5+ years of experience, including 2+ years in a managerial or leadership position
• Strong proficiency in programming languages such as Python, R, and experience with data manipulation and analysis libraries
• Solid understanding of machine learning algorithms, statistical methodologies, and data modeling techniques
• Experience with data visualization tools (e.g., Tableau, Power BI) to communicate findings effectively
• Excellent project management skills and ability to prioritize tasks in a fast-paced environment
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills with attention to detail
• Exceptional communication skills, both verbal and written, in English and Arabic
• Proven capability to drive collaboration across teams and influence senior stakeholders
  
  

• Certified Data Scientist (CDS)
• Microsoft Certified: Azure Data Scientist Associate
• Google Cloud Professional Data Engineer

• Seniority level Mid-Senior level

• Employment type Full-time

• Job function Information Technology
• Industries IT Services and IT Consulting

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About the team:

Hudhud Maps Data Science team’s mission is to harness the power of data to build intelligent solutions that elevate the user experience, optimize decision-making, and improve operational efficiencies. As a leader in this team, you will be at the forefront of using cutting-edge AI and machine learning models to solve complex challenges in the MENA region. You’ll work with and hire some of the brightest data science talent, leveraging state-of-the-art technologies such as machine learning, optimization, deep learning, and NLP to transform how cities are mapped and navigated, all while driving real-time impact through our in-house AI and data infrastructure.

What you will do:

• Develop a vision and thought leadership in the space of mapping and location-based intelligence, gaining deep expertise in this domain.
• Define a clear roadmap for the data science teams, ensuring alignment with both product and business goals, while driving team growth and development.
• Lead and scale a distributed Data Science team, collaborating with cross-functional teams to solve challenges in multiple subdomains, including POI (Points of Interest) collection and enrichment, road and map features generation, search, personalization and real-time navigation.
• Develop innovative AI models and data strategies to solve previously unsolvable problems, unlocking new opportunities for Hudhud Maps to deliver exceptional value to users.
• Collaborate with leadership to ensure data science initiatives directly contribute to the company’s strategic goals and have a meaningful impact on the organization.
• Partner with engineering and product teams to deliver major cross-functional projects that push the boundaries of mapping technology.
• Reimagine and reinvent how mapping and navigation are experienced in the region using AI-driven approaches.
• Foster collaboration with external AI communities, universities, and the broader tech ecosystem in the MENA region to raise the bar for applied AI.

What you will need:

• An advanced degree in a quantitative field such as computer science, statistics, economics, or mathematics.
• At least 8+ years of professional experience working in data science and machine learning teams.
• Strong experience in building, managing, and growing data science teams is essential.
• A proven track record of delivering high-impact AI solutions and successfully leading cross-functional projects.
• Experience launching new products and continuously improving them over time.
• Demonstrated ability to attract, retain, and nurture top-tier talent.
• A passion for fostering a culture of ownership, collaboration, and results.
• Excellent leadership, communication, critical thinking, and judgment skills.
• A strong motivation to make an impact and elevate the AI landscape in the region.

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

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.

English (C1 / IELTS 7.0 equivalent or better)

Level Good

Research Field Physics » OtherGeosciencesEngineering » Geological engineering Years of Research Experience None

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.

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

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.

English (C1 / IELTS 7.0 equivalent or better)

Level Good

Research Field Physics » OtherGeosciencesEngineering » Geological engineering Years of Research Experience None

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.

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

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.

English (C1 / IELTS 7.0 equivalent or better)

Level Good

Research Field Physics » OtherGeosciencesEngineering » Geological engineering Years of Research Experience None

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.

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

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.

English (C1 / IELTS 7.0 equivalent or better)

Level Good

Research Field Physics " OtherGeosciencesEngineering " Geological engineering Years of Research Experience None

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.

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

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.

English (C1 / IELTS 7.0 equivalent or better)

Level Good

Research Field Physics " OtherGeosciencesEngineering " Geological engineering Years of Research Experience None

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.

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

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.

English (C1 / IELTS 7.0 equivalent or better)

Level Good

Research Field Physics » OtherGeosciencesEngineering » Geological engineering Years of Research Experience None

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.