The American University of Beirut (AUB) stands as one of the most prestigious institutions in the Middle East, located in the heart of Beirut, Lebanon. Founded in 1866 as the Syrian Protestant College by American missionaries, it has evolved into a leading university known for its rigorous academic standards, English-language instruction, and commitment to liberal education. Situated on a hill overlooking the Mediterranean Sea in Beirut Governorate, AUB's campus spans 61 acres and serves over 9,000 students from more than 60 countries. The university's mission emphasizes excellence in education, research, and service, making it a hub for intellectual advancement in the region.
AUB's reputation attracts top talent globally, offering jobs that contribute to its legacy of producing leaders in fields like medicine, engineering, business, and humanities. Whether you are seeking faculty positions, research roles, or administrative opportunities, AUB provides a dynamic environment where professionals can thrive amid Lebanon's rich cultural tapestry.
AUB's history is intertwined with Lebanon's development. Established during the Ottoman Empire, it transitioned to the American University of Beirut in 1920, reflecting its growing independence and international stature. Key milestones include the founding of the Faculty of Medicine in 1867, one of the first in the Arab world, and expansions in engineering and agriculture. Despite challenges like civil war and regional instability, AUB has rebuilt, maintaining accreditation from bodies like the New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE). Today, it honors its past through museums, archives, and ongoing research into regional history.
This storied background influences its job market, prioritizing candidates who appreciate its role in fostering Arab intellectualism while upholding Western academic traditions.
AUB comprises 11 faculties and schools, including Arts and Sciences, Engineering and Architecture, Medicine, Health Sciences, Business, and Agriculture and Food Sciences. Programs range from undergraduate degrees to PhDs, with strengths in biomedical engineering, public policy, and environmental studies. The university's graduate programs, such as the MS in Biomedical Engineering or PhD in Economics, are particularly renowned.
Jobs at AUB often align with these faculties, from teaching introductory courses to leading advanced research labs. The emphasis on interdisciplinary work means roles frequently involve collaboration across departments.
AUB offers diverse job categories tailored to higher education. Faculty positions include tenure-track professors, lecturers, and adjunct professors. Research roles encompass research assistants, postdoctoral fellows, and principal investigators. Administrative jobs cover HR, finance, IT, and student services, while executive positions like deans and directors shape strategic direction. For a full breakdown, explore university job types.
Current openings might include Assistant Professor in Civil Engineering or Research Associate in Public Health, reflecting AUB's focus on impactful regional issues.
Most faculty jobs at AUB require a PhD (Doctor of Philosophy) in the relevant field from an accredited institution. A PhD is the highest academic degree, signifying advanced research capability. For lecturer positions, a master's degree may suffice, but PhD holders are preferred. Medical faculty need MD (Doctor of Medicine) or equivalent, often with residency training. Administrative roles vary, typically requiring bachelor's or master's degrees in fields like business administration or education.
AUB's research priorities include water resources, renewable energy, refugee health, and Middle Eastern archaeology. Expertise in sustainable development, given Lebanon's challenges, or bioinformatics for medical research is highly valued. Faculty are expected to secure grants from bodies like the US National Institutes of Health or Qatar National Research Fund. Research assistants need skills in data analysis and lab techniques specific to the project, such as molecular biology or GIS mapping.
Preferred candidates have 3-5 years of postdoctoral experience, 5+ peer-reviewed publications, and grant-writing success. Teaching experience, demonstrated by positive student evaluations, is crucial. International experience, especially in multicultural settings, aligns with AUB's diverse student body. Check postdoctoral success tips for thriving in such roles.
Essential skills include strong English communication, as it's the medium of instruction, alongside Arabic for local engagement. Competencies like grant proposal writing, curriculum development, and mentoring students are key. Technical skills vary: software like MATLAB for engineers, SPSS for social scientists. Soft skills such as adaptability to Lebanon's dynamic environment and commitment to ethical research are vital. Learn how to write a winning academic CV to highlight these.
To apply for jobs at AUB, visit the official careers page on aub.edu.lb. Submit a cover letter, CV, research statement, teaching philosophy, and three references online. Applications are reviewed year-round, but deadlines apply for specific postings.
Follow up politely after submission. Use resources like employer branding secrets to understand AUB's culture.
AUB champions diversity through the Office of Institutional Diversity and Inclusion. Initiatives include gender equity programs, scholarships for Lebanese-Palestinian students, and LGBTQ+ support groups. The university recruits globally, with 40% international faculty, and offers training on unconscious bias. Women in STEM initiatives and accessibility services for disabled staff underscore its commitment.
AUB supports work-life balance with flexible hours, generous leave, health insurance, and child care subsidies. The campus features gyms, pools, theaters, and cafes, fostering a community feel. Beirut's location offers cultural richness, though professionals should note regional security considerations. Events like guest lectures and sports promote wellness. Faculty enjoy sabbaticals every seven years.
Despite Lebanon's economic challenges, AUB provides stability and a supportive expat community.
Jobs at the American University of Beirut offer rewarding opportunities in a historic, vibrant setting. From faculty to research roles, AUB seeks qualified professionals passionate about education and innovation. Explore more higher ed jobs, get career advice via higher ed career advice, browse university jobs, or post a job if recruiting.
