Post-doc Research Position – Nanofabrication for Emitting Devices

Job Description

Organization: King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST)
Division: Physical Science and Engineering Division
Research Laboratory: Semiconductors and Materials Spectroscopy (SMS) Laboratory
Location: Thuwal, Saudi Arabia
Position: Postdoctoral Research Position – Nanofabrication for Emitting Devices
Project Duration: One year, extendable
Expected Start: February 2026 (as stated in the vacancy)
Application Deadline: Open until filled

About KAUST

King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST) is an international graduate-level research university located in Thuwal, Saudi Arabia. The university is dedicated to advancing scientific research and technological innovation through collaboration among researchers from around the world.

KAUST provides an interdisciplinary research environment with advanced facilities and international research partnerships, supporting work on scientific and technological challenges with regional and global impact.

About the Research Laboratory

The position is based in the Semiconductors and Materials Spectroscopy (SMS) Laboratory within KAUST’s Physical Science and Engineering Division.

The laboratory investigates wide-bandgap semiconductors based on gallium nitride (GaN) and related materials for optoelectronic applications.

It is equipped with advanced laser facilities and spectroscopic instrumentation, including:

• Continuous-wave (CW) lasers.
• Ultrafast Ti lasers with second- and third-harmonic generators.
• Streak cameras.
• Optical parametric oscillators (OPO).

The research group also maintains collaborations with international institutions across the United Kingdom, Europe, Canada, China, Taiwan, and Japan.

Position Overview

Applications are invited for a postdoctoral research position focused on nanofabrication processes for emitting-device applications, particularly laser diodes.

The research will involve the fabrication of wide-bandgap semiconductor nanostructures, primarily based on oxide and III-nitride semiconductor materials.

The successful candidate will contribute to developing advanced fabrication processes for emitting devices and optoelectronic applications. The work will involve cleanroom-based fabrication, device design and processing, and optical and electrical characterisation of semiconductor nanostructures and devices.

Research Areas

The position focuses on:

• Advanced nanofabrication processes for emitting devices.
• Laser-diode fabrication.
• Wide-bandgap semiconductor nanostructures.
• Oxide and III-nitride semiconductor materials.
• Optoelectronic device development.
• Semiconductor optical and electrical characterisation.

Key Responsibilities

• Carry out cleanroom fabrication using solution-based and vacuum-based processes.
• Perform electron-beam lithography, electron-beam deposition, and sputtering.
• Design and process semiconductor devices for emitting applications.
• Contribute to research planning and determine research directions in consultation with the supervisor, within the scope of the original project proposal.
• Support and guide less-experienced members of the research team, including PhD students.
• Document research results for scientific papers, technical reports, and presentations.
• Contribute to the preparation of scientific manuscripts, reports, and presentations.
• Prepare technical reports for grant-awarding organisations.
• Develop and maintain external research collaborations.
• Plan experimental activities and work towards project deadlines.
• Maintain effective cooperation with internal and external research partners.
• Perform additional duties assigned by the research supervisor.

Candidate Profile

Applicants should hold a doctorate in Physics, Chemistry, Materials Science, Optoelectronics, or a related discipline.

Candidates must demonstrate practical experience in LED and laser-diode fabrication, cleanroom-based thin-film processing, and semiconductor-device characterisation.

Experience with electron-beam lithography, electron-beam deposition, sputtering, and solution-based fabrication processes is required. Applicants should also have a strong theoretical understanding of optoelectronic devices and a record of publications in peer-reviewed journals.

Excellent communication skills, professional competence, self-motivation, and the ability to work independently and as part of a team are essential.

Salary and Benefits

KAUST offers competitive remuneration based on the candidate’s qualifications and experience.

The appointment includes the following benefits:

• Fully furnished shared accommodation, including utilities, at no cost to the postdoctoral researcher.
• Relocation allowance at the beginning of the contract.
• Health insurance.
• 20 days of paid annual vacation leave.
• Travel allowance.

Project Duration

The advertised project duration is one year from February 2026, with the possibility of extension.

Application Procedure

Applicants should submit a complete application containing:

• Professional CV, including educational background and research experience.
• List of scientific publications.
• Cover letter.
• Academic certificates.
• Reference details, including the names, affiliations, telephone numbers, and email addresses of two individuals who can provide reference letters.

Applications may be submitted through the online application portal or by email as indicated in the vacancy.

Application Email: [email protected]

Direct Application Portal: Apply – Interfolio

Further Information: http://spectroscopy.kaust.edu.sa

Application Deadline

The review of applications will begin immediately, and interested candidates are strongly encouraged to submit their applications as soon as possible. The position remains open until filled.

Equal Opportunity

KAUST is committed to equality and merit-based recruitment. Appointments and other university activities are conducted without discrimination based on race, colour, religion, or gender.