Job Description

Postdoctoral Researcher / Research Scientist – Large Area 2D Materials Growth and Devices

Institution: King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST)
Division: Physical Science and Engineering Division
Department: Material Science and Engineering
Research Centre: Center for Renewable Energy and Storage Technologies (CREST)
Location: Thuwal, Saudi Arabia

Position Overview

King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST) is seeking motivated researchers for a Postdoctoral Researcher / Research Scientist position focused on large-area two-dimensional (2D) materials growth and electronic devices.

The research will focus on developing wafer-scale 2D materials for microelectronics and emerging sensor technologies, particularly for sensor and transistor applications. Candidates should have expertise in growing 2D materials using techniques such as chemical vapour deposition (CVD), pulsed laser deposition (PLD), sputtering or metal-organic chemical vapour deposition (MOCVD).

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and optimize wafer-scale 2D materials, including transition metal dichalcogenides (TMDCs), MXenes and metal-organic frameworks (MOFs), for microelectronics applications.
• Improve material quality by reducing defects and enhancing large-area uniformity and continuity.
• Conduct detailed structural, chemical and electrical characterization using XRD, SEM, TEM, Raman spectroscopy and PPMS.
• Apply cleanroom nanofabrication processes to develop electronic devices based on 2D materials.
• Design, execute and troubleshoot research experiments.
• Analyse experimental results and contribute to the development of research outcomes.
• Publish findings in high-impact scientific journals.
• Present research results at international conferences.

Research Environment – CREST

The position is associated with KAUST’s Center for Renewable Energy and Storage Technologies (CREST).

CREST aims to advance renewable energy and storage technologies in support of Saudi Arabia’s environmental and economic objectives. Through strategic partnerships, advanced research facilities and workforce training, the centre focuses on developing, prototyping and commercializing technologies that strengthen the Kingdom’s industrial competitiveness and support its transition towards sustainability-focused economic sectors.

The centre emphasizes the development of home-grown technologies originating at KAUST.

Compensation and Benefits

The position offers a competitive benefits package, including:

• Competitive tax-free salary.
• Free on-campus housing.
• Health insurance.
• 22 days of annual vacation.
• Additional benefits.

About KAUST

King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST) is an international research university located on the Red Sea near Jeddah, Saudi Arabia. It provides advanced research facilities and an international academic environment, with a community representing more than 100 nationalities.

Application Instructions

Interested applicants should submit the following:

• Updated resume or CV.
• Detailed publication list.
• Contact information for three professional references.

Applications should be submitted through the official Interfolio application portal. Applicants may also contact the listed research team representative.

Contact: Dr. Xiangming Xu
Email: [email protected]

Online Application: Apply – Interfolio

Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.

Application Deadline: Open until filled.