Postdoc in Composite Materials Durability Adhesively Bonded Joints in KAUST – Saudi Arabia

Summary

King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST) in Saudi Arabia is seeking a Postdoctoral Research Associate for a permanent, full-time position in the Physical Science and Engineering Division. The role focuses on experimental research in composite materials and structural integrity, specifically the durability of adhesively bonded joints. The successful candidate will plan and conduct experimental investigations, analyze data, contribute to publications, and support the supervision of PhD and MSc students. Applicants should hold a PhD in a relevant engineering discipline, possess hands-on experience in experimental mechanics, and have a strong publication record. The position offers a competitive salary and benefits, with an application deadline of March 10, 2027.

Key Facts

Department	Physical Science and Engineering Division
Position Type	Postdoc
Discipline	Engineering, Materials engineering, Mechanical engineering
Research Area	Composite Materials Durability, Adhesively Bonded Joints, Structural Integrity, Experimental Mechanics, Fracture Mechanics, Damage Mechanics
Degree Required	PhD or equivalent
Experience	Hands-on experience in experimental mechanics of polymers, composites or adhesive joints; working knowledge of fracture mechanics and/or damage mechanics; evidence of publication in peer-reviewed journals commensurate with career stage; ability to plan and sustain a long disciplined test campaign independently and to keep rigorous records.
Salary	Competitive salary
Contract Duration	Permanent
Language	English
Deadline	2027-03-10
Required Documents	Detailed CV including list of publications and awards with potential start date, Short statement of previous work, title of the post-doc fellowship, description of vision and research plan, Names and contact information of three referees, Slides from a recent presentation at a conference or seminar, Pdf of a recent publication considered by the candidate as being representative of his research work
Employer Address	KAUST Campus, Thuwal Makkah, 23955-6900, Saudi Arabia
Employer Contact	[email protected]

About the Project

The research program focuses on the durability of composite materials and adhesively bonded joints. The Postdoctoral Research Associate will lead experimental investigations into these areas, including planning and conducting experiments, preparing specimens, performing mechanical and experimental characterization, and applying non-destructive testing and monitoring techniques. The goal is to analyze and interpret experimental data to contribute to high-quality research publications and project reporting.

Key Responsibilities

• Plan and conduct experimental investigations on composite materials and bonded structures
• Prepare specimens and carry out mechanical and experimental characterization
• Apply appropriate non-destructive testing and monitoring techniques
• Analyze and interpret experimental data and contribute to high-quality research publications
• Contribute to project reporting, presentations, and collaboration with research partners
• Support the supervision of PhD and MSc students
• Actively engage in student mentoring and directed research for Master thesis students
• Develop further the facilities of the laboratory
• Deliver regular reports related to the associated grant

Required Skills

• PhD in mechanical, materials, civil, aerospace or a closely related engineering discipline
• Hands-on experience in experimental mechanics of polymers, composites or adhesive joints (specimen preparation, servo-hydraulic or electrodynamic testing, fatigue testing)
• Working knowledge of fracture mechanics and/or damage mechanics
• Evidence of publication in peer-reviewed journals commensurate with career stage
• Ability to plan and sustain a long disciplined test campaign independently and to keep rigorous records
• Fluent written and spoken English

Who Should Apply

This position is suitable for a highly motivated researcher with a PhD in mechanical, materials, civil, aerospace, or a closely related engineering discipline. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in experimental mechanics, composite materials, or structural engineering, with practical experience in mechanical testing, experimental characterization, and non-destructive testing. They should also have a working knowledge of fracture mechanics and/or damage mechanics, a publication record in peer-reviewed journals, and the ability to conduct independent, disciplined test campaigns.

Benefits

• Competitive salary
• Generous benefits package

About the Employer

KAUST (King Abdullah University of Science and Technology) is an organization with a Physical Science and Engineering Division. It is located in Thuwal Makkah, Saudi Arabia. The university offers access to well-established laboratory facilities and experimental equipment.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the application deadline for this position?

The application deadline is March 10, 2027, at 23:59 Asia Riyadh time.

What is the required education level for this position?

Applicants must have a PhD or equivalent in engineering, materials engineering, or mechanical engineering.

What are the main responsibilities of this Postdoctoral Research Associate?

Main responsibilities include planning and conducting experimental investigations, preparing specimens, carrying out mechanical and experimental characterization, applying non-destructive testing, analyzing data, contributing to publications, project reporting, and supporting student supervision.

Is this a permanent position?

Yes, this is a permanent, full-time position.

What documents are required for the application?

Required documents include a detailed CV, a short statement of previous work and research plan, names and contact information of three referees, slides from a recent presentation, and a PDF of a recent publication.

What is the working language for this position?

The working language is English, and fluency in written and spoken English is required.