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STUDY EARTH SYSTEMS SCIENCE AND ENGINEERING AT KAUST

PROGRAM CHAIR:​
Hussein Hoteit, Ph.D.
Professor of Energy Resources and Petroleum Engineering
Building 5, Level 3, Room 3220

 

Hussein Hoteit KAUST

The Earth Systems Science and Engineering (ESSE) program conducts fundamental and applied research to support the Kingdom’s Vision 2030 goals. The program aims to lead the advancement of sustainable environmental solutions in Saudi Arabia and beyond by strengthening research excellence, driving impact aligned with national priorities, and contributing to the Saudi  Human Capability Development Program through education and training. 

ESSE landing page image 1

WHY JOIN US


Earth Systems Science and Engineering program at KAUST is at the forefront of addressing global challenges related to energy, environmental sustainability, and climate science. By merging the strengths of the Earth Science and Engineering (ErSE) and Energy Resources and Petroleum Engineering (ERPE) programs, ESSE offers students a comprehensive and interdisciplinary approach to solving some of the world’s most pressing issues. With access to state-of-the-art facilities, leading research initiatives, and strategic industry partnerships, students are equipped with the knowledge and skills needed to deliver impactful innovation. 

  • A Collaborative and Supportive Community 
    ESSE promotes a collaborative environment where students, faculty, and researchers engage in interdisciplinary work to tackle critical energy and environmental challenges. Our faculty members are dedicated to mentoring students, and our students benefit from partnerships with global research institutions, industries, and government agencies. The strong sense of community within ESSE ensures that students have access to continuous support and networking opportunities. 
  • Tailored Education and Training 
    Our program delivers a cutting-edge curriculum designed to equip students with advanced technological expertise and a collaborative mindset. With a strong emphasis on both international and Saudi talent, we prepare graduates for impactful careers in academia, industry, and beyond. 
  • World-Class Faculty and Facilities 
    KAUST offers access to state-of-the-art laboratories and a dynamic community of leading researchers. Our distinguished faculty members are committed to advancing both fundamental and applied science, ensuring that students receive the mentorship and resources necessary to excel. 
  • Interdisciplinary Collaborations 
    The ESSE program bridges the gap between multiple disciplines, integrating expertise in geology, geophysics, geochemistry, geomechanics, reservoir engineering, climate science, and machine learning in geosciences. This interdisciplinary approach enables students to develop holistic solutions to challenges such as carbon sequestration, geothermal energy, underground hydrogen storage, and climate modeling. Students gain hands-on experience through computational modeling, laboratory experiments, and field studies, preparing them for careers in both academia and industry. 
  • Strategic Research for Global Impact 
    Our research is aligned with Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 and the Research, Development, and Innovation Authority (RDIA) pillars. ESSE focuses on energy transition applications, environmental sustainability, and cutting-edge advancements in Earth sciences. The program is deeply involved in industry collaborations with Aramco, NEOM, Red Sea Global, and ACWA Power, among others, ensuring that students' research has tangible global impact. 
  • Unique Geological and Geographic Advantages 
    KAUST's location provides access to distinct geological and environmental features, offering an unparalleled natural laboratory for studying Earth systems, marine ecosystems, and energy resources. Our students and researchers benefit from hands-on experience in one of the world’s most unique and ecologically significant regions. 

Join KAUST’s Earth Systems Science and Engineering Program

Be part of a dynamic program where groundbreaking research, collaboration, and innovation drive the future of Earth Systems Science and Engineering.

Upcoming Events

27

Jul 2025

PhD Dissertation

Structural modulation of Ni-based catalysts for CO2 dry reforming of methane using forced dynamic conditions
28

Jul 2025

PhD Dissertation

Single atom catalysis in selective catalytic reduction of NO and NH3 oxidation reactions
29

Jul 2025

PhD Dissertation

From sub‐gap absorption to charge‐separation: charge transfer state insights in PTB7‐Th: non‐fullerene acceptor organic photovoltaics
21

Aug 2025

PhD Dissertation

ML-assisted Bayesian reservoir characterization
View More Events

 

 

​Graduate Program Student Advisor (GPSA)

Karema Alaseef

Engineering Science Hall (Building 9) Level 4, Office 4365.

email: karema.alaseef@kaust.edu.sa

Drop-in hours

  • Sunday and Tuesday: 10 am - 12 pm and 2 pm - 4 pm.
  • Thursday: 10 am - 12 pm.

Karema is here to address students academic questions, evaluate their progress, and update them on current university policies and procedures. She is the first point of contact for all academic life and KAUST-related questions or issues. She is the liaison between students and faculty, the Registrar Office, Graduate Affairs, Admissions, the Associate Dean and the Dean.  ​​

 

 

Our Faculty

KAUST offers superb research facilities; generous, assured research funding; and internationally competitive salaries. We attract top international faculty and students to conduct fundamental and goal-oriented research to address the world's pressing scientific and technological challenges. Apply now for the open positions and be a part of our community.

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  • Research Centers
    • Ali I. Al-Naimi Petroleum Engineering Research Center
    • Climate and Livability Initiative
    • Extreme Computing
  • Degree Programs
    • Earth Systems Science and Engineering
    • Technology Innovation and Entrepreneurship
  • Research Areas
    • Applied Mathematics and Computational Science
    • Chemical and Biological Engineering
    • Earth Science and Engineering
    • Extreme Computing
    • Machine Learning
    • Petroleum Engineering

KAUST Faculty

  • Abdulkader M. Afifi Professor, Energy Resources and Petroleum Engineering
  • Maryam Alghannam Ibn Rushd Assistant Professor, Earth Systems Science and Engineering
  • Tariq Alkhalifah
    Professor, Earth Systems Science and Engineering
  • HYLKE BECK Assistant Professor, Earth Science and Engineering
  • Frans Van Buchem Professor, Energy Resources and Petroleum Engineering
  • Mikkel Draebye Instructional Professor, Technology Innovation and Entrepreneurship
  • Thomas Finkbeiner Research Professor, Energy Resources and Petroleum Engineering
  • Max Frenzel Assistant Professor, Earth Systems Science and Engineering
  • Hussein Hoteit
    Associate Professor, Earth Systems Science and Engineering
  • Ibrahim Hoteit
    Professor, Earth Science and Engineering
  • Cunqi Jia Assistant Professor, Earth Science and Engineering
  • Sigurjón Jónsson
    Professor, Earth Science and Engineering
  • Paul Martin Mai Professor, Earth Science and Engineering
  • Tadeusz W. Patzek Emeritus Professor, Energy Resources and Petroleum Engineering
  • Georgiy L. Stenchikov Emeritus Professor, Earth Science and Engineering
  • Volker C. Vahrenkamp Professor, Energy Resources and Petroleum Engineering
  • Bicheng Yan Assistant Professor, Energy Resources and Petroleum Engineering
  • Froukje M. van der Zwan
    Assistant Professor, Earth Science and Engineering
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King Abdullah bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, 1924 – 2015

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