Carbonate Sedimentologist – Shallow water carbonates of the Al Wajh Carbonate Platform, Red Sea

Physical Science and Engineering Division (postdoc)

Ali I. Naimi Petroleum Research Center, King Abdullah University of Science and Technology

Jan 31, 2024

Professor Volker Vahrenkamp's research team is currently recruiting for a 2-year Post-doc position in the dynamic carbonate research group ( https: // caress.kaust.edu.sa/ ) to study the shallow water carbonates of the land-attached Al Wajh carbonate platform in the Red Sea, Saudi Arabia.

The open position focuses on an investigation of the evolution of the Pleistocene shallow water carbonate systems. This includes facies analysis, environmental research, diagenesis, pore-network analysis and stratigraphy. Additional ideas will also be considered.

A multitude of data is already available including shallow cores, vibro-cores and environmental logger data and requires detailed evaluation. Additional fieldwork and data acquisition is also desirable. The candidate will join a working group consisting of 1 post-doc (micro-biology) and 5 PhD students at various stages of their projects. The area is part of the Red Sea Global Giga Project which aims to build a world class sustainable tourist development centered on the unique marine environment of Al Wajh (https: // www. redseaglobal.com/en/).

The Red Sea has experienced dramatic sea-level variations and temporary climate shifts from arid to humid conditions since the Mid-Pleistocene. These environmental changes significantly influenced the development of shallow water mixed carbonate/siliciclastic systems along the Red Sea margins (e.g. reefs, lagoons, shorelines). The land-attached Al Wajh carbonate platform in the northern Red Sea is characterized by a large and deep lagoon, which is protected by a 160 km long reef belt. The platform hosts 92 coral islands with most of those formed during past sea-level highstands.

Conditions and Life at KAUST

Applications are sought for a two-year Postdoc position. The position will include a competitive salary based on the candidate's qualifications and experience; benefits include medical and dental insurance, housing on the KAUST campus, annual travel allowance and paid vacation, and other generous benefits. Saudi Arabia is a fast developing vibrant society offering unparalleled opportunities. The successful applicant will be associated with the Carbonate Research Group (CaResS) at KAUST (https: // www. kaust.edu.sa/en/).

Starting Date

As soon as possible, ideally within Q1/Q2 2024.

Qualified applicants should possess a Ph.D. in Carbonate Sedimentology, or a closely related field. The candidate should be experienced with studying shallow water carbonate systems (e.g., reefs, carbonate sand shoals), facies analysis, thin section analysis, and geochemical analysis (e.g., dating, XRD, stable isotopes). Applicants should also have experience in planning, scoping and executing field-based research projects. A dive license or willingness to acquire one is desirable, while scientific dive certification is of advantage. Candidates with a strong publication record, experience mentoring students and Red Sea experience will be given preference.

Please inquire or send your application package to Prof. Volker Vahrenkamp [email protected] clearly stating “Carbonate Sedimentologist – Pleistocene carbonate shallow water systems”. Application packages need to include a statement of interest and a curriculum vitae with a list of publications and the names and contact details of three referees. Applications will be considered until the position is filled.