PSE Hero Bar Orientation April-May 2025 (765 x 475 px)

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

 

PSE Research Aligning with Vision 20230's RDI pillars

 

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


The new PSE Report 2024 is out!

Kangming Li Joins KAUST Faculty: Exploring Materials Through Machine Learning

15 July, 2025

Kangming Li has recently joined King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST) as an Assistant Professor in the Materials Science and Applied Physics (MSAP) program. His research bridges artificial intelligence (AI) and materials science, with a focus on developing data-driven methods to accelerate discovery in complex physical systems.

Li leads the newly established research group AI for Materials (AI4Mat). His work investigates how machine learning can be integrated into modeling pipelines and experimental research to generate high-quality materials data, uncover hidden patterns, and accelerate materials discovery in more targeted and efficient ways.

“We’re entering a new phase in scientific research,” he explains, “in which AI is not just a tool for automation, but a partner in discovery.”

In his initial years at KAUST, Li will focus on developing robust machine learning frameworks to tackle sustainability challenges in materials science. His research spans a wide spectrum of applications—from catalysis and membranes to solar energy conversion, and energy storage systems such as next-generation batteries. These diverse areas reflect his broader aim to accelerate the design of functional materials critical to clean energy and environmental technologies.

“These materials enable essential processes—from hydrogen production and CO₂ capture to solar-powered systems and battery technologies,” says Li. “By integrating AI into both modeling and experimentation, we’re not just accelerating discovery—we’re charting a more intentional path toward impactful, scalable solutions for a sustainable future.”

Having recently returned from a two-month stay in China, Li is now settling into the KAUST community and resuming his research. Outside the lab, he is eager to explore KAUST’s sports facilities and the nearby Red Sea coast.

Li believes strongly in the role of intellectual curiosity and self-motivation in science. Quoting Steve Jobs, he shares what has become his personal motto:

“Stay hungry. Stay foolish.”

“Together, this motto reflects the creative tension that drives innovation,” adds Li, “the ambition to explore more, and the wisdom to accept uncertainty. Especially in fields like AI and materials science, where the frontier is constantly shifting, this mindset is not just inspiring—it’s necessary.”

To students considering a career in research, he offers this advice:

Be proactive and resilient. Opportunities are rarely handed to you—you create them. Success is never final, and failure isn’t fatal.

Further details about Li’s academic background and current projects can be found on his faculty profile.

Welcome again to Professor Kangming Li!

        

Upcoming Events

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.