Professor Suzana Nunes is a leader in membrane science and engineering, with a focus on sustainable separation technologies. She joined KAUST in 2009 and is Professor of Chemical and Environmental Science and Engineering, where she also served as Vice Provost for Faculty and Academic Affairs. Before KAUST, she led membrane research for renewable energy applications at the Helmholtz Association in Germany and held faculty positions at the University of Campinas, Brazil. She has authored more than 300 scientific publications in peer-reviewed journals. 

Professor Nunes develops advanced polymer membranes for applications in the water sector and chemical, pharmaceutical, and environmental separation processes. Her research uses polymer chemistry to design multilayered membranes that operate under extreme conditions and enable precise molecular separations. The group investigates fundamental aspects of physical chemistry, particularly self-assembly and thermodynamics relevant for the formation of order and porosity in polymer solutions. A translational aspect of her research is the fabrication of membranes as flat-sheets and hollow fibers and integration into modules for performance evaluation. A significant component of the work involves detailed membrane characterization using 2D and 3D imaging techniques, including electron microscopy and synchrotron-based X-ray analysis. The lab is also engaged in developing renewable materials and employing green solvents to support circular manufacturing practices. Collectively, this research aims to reduce energy consumption and minimize environmental impact in large-scale separation technologies.