STUDY Materials Science and Applied Physics at KAUST

The Materials Science and Applied Physics (MSAP) Program offers degrees in Materials Science and Engineering (MSE) and Applied Physics (AP), providing students with a strong foundation in both fundamental principles and cutting-edge applications.

Materials Science and Engineering (MSE)
This track equips students with the essential knowledge and skills to address global challenges in sustainability, renewable energy, nanotechnology, nanoelectronics, biomaterials, low-power computing, and advanced materials characterization.
Applied Physics (AP)
Designed to promote scientific discovery and technological innovation, the AP track provides students with a comprehensive theoretical and practical foundation to drive advancements in applied physics and engineering solutions.

Through rigorous coursework and hands-on research, MSAP prepares graduates to push the boundaries of materials science and applied physics, contributing to transformative developments in science and technology. We invite you to continue below to explore our graduate study offers and faculty research groups.

WHY JOIN US?

The Materials Science and Applied Physics (MSAP) Program at KAUST is at the cutting edge of research and innovation, addressing global challenges in sustainability, energy, nanotechnology, and advanced materials. Through an interdisciplinary approach, world-class faculty, and access to state-of-the-art facilities, MSAP equips students with the expertise and experience to drive scientific breakthroughs and technological advancements. 

 

Strategic Research for Global Impact
Aligned with Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030, MSAP drives advancements in alternative energy, low-power computing, and sustainable materials. Our students and researchers contribute to cutting-edge discoveries that have real-world impact, shaping the future of science and technology on a global scale. 
MSAP integrates expertise from physics, materials science, engineering, and computational modeling to address pressing technological and environmental challenges. Our research spans the development of energy-efficient electronic devices to the design of biomaterials and nanotechnology innovations with transformative potential. 
KAUST offers an exceptional research ecosystem, featuring cutting-edge laboratories, fully funded research opportunities, and a globally competitive academic environment. Our faculty members are renowned experts leading pioneering research in materials science and applied physics, providing students with the mentorship and resources needed to excel. 
With a curriculum designed to bridge fundamental science and real-world applications, MSAP prepares students for impactful careers in academia, industry, and entrepreneurship. Hands-on research opportunities in materials characterization, computational modeling, and experimental physics provide a solid foundation for future leaders in the field. 
MSAP cultivates an interdisciplinary environment where students, faculty, and researchers collaborate to develop next-generation materials and devices. Our students benefit from mentorship, international partnerships, and industry collaborations, ensuring a dynamic and supportive learning experience. 

The MSAP program empowers students to drive innovation in materials science and physics, shaping solutions for sustainability, energy, and advanced technologies.

ACADEMIC OVERVIEW

MATERIALS SCIENCE and APPLIED PHYSICS

The Materials Science and Applied Physics (MSAP) Program at KAUST is dedicated to pioneering research at the intersection of physics and materials science. Our faculty and researchers investigate fundamental and applied questions, focusing on emergent phenomena at the micro- and nanoscale to drive advancements in next-generation technologies. 

With secured and generous research funding, MSAP supports long-term, high-impact studies that lead to breakthrough developments in low-power electronics, energy conversion and storage, ultrafast optoelectronics, magnetic materials, nanoscale characterization, and computational modeling. 

Current Research Areas

Our faculty members explore diverse topics that push the boundaries of materials and physics innovation, including:

 

First-Principles Modeling and Computational Materials Science
Using advanced simulations to predict and optimize material properties. 
Photovoltaics
 Creating novel materials for efficient and durable solar energy harvesting. 
Nanocomposites
Engineering hybrid materials with superior mechanical, electrical, and thermal properties. 
Spintronics and Modern Magnetism
Advancing spin-based electronics for high-speed computing and data storage. 
Batteries and Supercapacitors
Innovating sustainable and high-efficiency energy storage solutions. 
Nanodevices and Sensors
Designing nanoscale devices for applications in energy, healthcare, and environmental monitoring. 
Advanced Optoelectronics
Developing next-generation optical and electronic materials for high-performance applications. 
Wave Propagation in Heterogeneous Media
Studying wave behavior to improve sensing and communication technologies. 
Photophysics of Solar Cell
Enhancing solar energy conversion efficiency through a deeper understanding of light-matter interactions. 
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Future Directions

MSAP is expanding its research portfolio into emerging fields, including: 

  • Strongly correlated systems and van der Waals heterostructures. 
  • Novel optical sources and quantum photonics. 
  • Advanced materials and devices for quantum information processing and communication. 

Through interdisciplinary collaboration and cutting-edge research, MSAP develops transformative scientific solutions that address global challenges and drive technological innovation. Join us in shaping the future of materials science and applied physics. 

 

MASTER'S and Ph.D.

DEGREE PROGRAMs

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PROGRAM GUIDE

Visit the KAUST Program Guide for detailed information about our graduate degree options.  The Program Guide provides prospective and current students with comprehensive information on various aspects of the program. 

Within the guide, you will find detailed information on program course and credit requirements, placement tests, Ph.D. proposals, dissertation process guidance and the academic year structure. 

The Program Guide will serve as your roadmap to successfully navigate your academic journey at KAUST and will allow you to make informed decisions about your studies. 

Research

In PSE, we tackle the world’s most critical environmental and energy challenges by fostering interdisciplinary collaboration and leveraging advanced technologies to enhance ecosystem resilience, secure food and water, and advance human health.

Explore Our Research

Meet Our
MSAP Faculty

Explore the experts advancing research and innovation in Materials Science and Applied Physics at KAUST.

Our Faculty