Welcome to the Physical Science and Engineering Division of the King Abdullah University of Science and Technology
The mission of the Physical Science and Engineering Division is to advance science and technology through education, interdisciplinary research, and innovation. Our goal is to contribute to the preservation of the planet and accelerate the impact on the Saudi economy.
Our educational programs and research initiatives are aligned with Saudi national RDI priorities and Vision 2030. We aim to provide the Kingdom with the next generations of scientists, engineers, and entrepreneurs capable of understanding and devising innovative solutions to global challenges. These challenges are encapsulated in the four RDI Pillars: Sustainable Environment & Essential Needs, Health and Wellness, Energy and Industrial Leadership, and Economies of the Future.
PSE research areas contributing to the Kingdom RDI Pillars and Vision 2030
.png?sfvrsn=196240a8_0)
Within this strategic framework, PSE fundamental and applied research addresses environmental protection, climate change, energy, and smart cities. We strive to achieve this by developing green fuels and renewable energies, creating novel materials and health applications, and providing solutions for better utilization and protection of our natural resources.
Chak Chan
Dean, Physical Science and Engineering Division
Magical mushrooms turn membranes green
30 January, 2024
Bio-inspired membrane materials from fungi mycelium are set to revolutionize separation technologies.
A bio-inspired approach that produces membranes for oil–water separation could enable more sustainable and ecofriendly ways to clean up crude oil spills
Janus membranes, which exhibit different properties on their opposite sides, are useful for oil–water separations. One side can display superhydrophilicity — an extremely high affinity for water and polar liquids — while the other side can be superhydrophobic, with an extremely high affinity for nonpolar liquids, such as oil and hydrocarbons.
This “superamphiphilicity” can be tailored to meet specific needs by fine-tuning the wetting properties of each membrane surface. However, most membranes are formed of petroleum-derived materials, which leave a large carbon footprint and are difficult to develop.
Recently graduated Ph.D. student Joyce Cavalcante and her supervisor, chemical engineer Gyorgy Szekely, have devised a method that exploits the root-like fibrous structure of fungi known as mycelium to generate superamphiphilic Janus membranes to separate oil from water.
Cavalcante explains that the method harnesses the self-growing nature of fungi-based materials, providing a dynamic and ecofriendly alternative to traditional membrane development.
Szekely says the approach was sparked by the documentary “Fantastic Fungi,” which reveals how fungi wield incredible powers as natural recyclers and symbiotic architects — roles that are often overlooked. Mycelium can be moulded into various shapes for multiple applications ranging from furniture and construction materials to substitutes for leather. These materials use up waste and are compostable, which minimizes their environmental footprint.
Read more at KAUST Discovery.
Upcoming Events
Aug 2024
PhD Dissertation
Enhancing Ammonia Combustion Performance in Internal Combustion Engine: A Comprehensive Analysis of Various StrategiesME Ph.D. Candidate Kalim Uddeen
Aug 2024
Materials Science and Engineering Special Seminar
Nanomagnonics from linear to deeply nonlinearProf. Qi Wang
Aug 2024
PhD Dissertation
Advancing Sustainable Photoredox Catalysis with Polymers of Intrinsic Microporosity: from Catalyst Design to Continuous–Flow ProcessCE Ph.D. Candidate, Martin Gede, supervised by Prof Gyorgy Szekely
PSE Post-graduate Programs
Welcome to the PSE post-graduate studies area!
At PSE, students embark on a journey of discovery as they pursue careers in science, industry, and academia. Surrounded by cutting-edge facilities and supported by our international team of faculty and staff, KAUST is today's best destination for students to explore the leading edge of science and earn a post-graduate diploma recognized worldwide.
Our division currently offers seven programs at the post-graduate level, including both Master's and Ph.D. options. Under expert advisors' guidance, students can design personalized course paths and research projects tailored to their career goals. Each program combines lectures, seminars, and laboratory classes, empowering students to transform their ideas into research projects independently.
Beyond academic pursuits, PSE students at KAUST enjoy a LEED-certified campus situated on the shores of the Red Sea, enveloped in pristine surroundings. The campus hosts a rich program of scientific and business events organized by KAUST and its top-tier industrial partners like ARAMCO, Sabic, Dow, Boeing, Bruker, Hewlett Packard, and more. This lively atmosphere provides students with ample networking avenues and the opportunity to engage in extracurricular activities, while maintaining a well-balanced personal life.
KAUST is an exceptional place to study, work and thrive.
If you aspire to a career in science and technology, our programs provide an excellent starting point. Both Master's and Ph.D. programs are fully funded by the university, covering tuition fees and providing a monthly stipend for the duration of the degree. Please explore the links below to learn more about our programs and begin your journey toward a fulfilling career in your chosen field of expertise.