Working at Isik, your next career step!

🎓 Overview of Jobs at Işık University

Işık University, a private non-profit institution in Istanbul, Turkey, offers diverse career opportunities in higher education. Located across two campuses in Şile and Üsküdar, it attracts professionals passionate about teaching, research, and administration. Jobs at Işık University span faculty positions, research roles, and support staff, contributing to its mission of fostering innovation and global perspectives since its founding in 1996.

The university emphasizes quality education in fields like engineering, architecture, and social sciences, making it an appealing destination for academics. Whether you're seeking lecturer jobs or research assistant positions, opportunities here blend academic rigor with Istanbul's dynamic cultural backdrop.

📜 History of Işık University

Established in 1996 by the Üsküdar American Academy Foundation, Işık University (Işık Üniversitesi) has grown into a respected name in Turkish higher education. Named after the Turkish word for 'light,' it symbolizes enlightenment through knowledge. Initially focused on engineering and sciences, it expanded to include faculties of economics, fine arts, and health sciences.

Key milestones include opening its Şile campus in 2011, enhancing research facilities, and forging partnerships with international universities. This evolution has created steady demand for jobs at Işık University, particularly in expanding departments. Today, it serves over 6,000 students, driving job growth in academia.

Academic Programs and Departments Hiring at Işık University

Işık University's faculties host programs that fuel job openings. The Faculty of Engineering and Natural Sciences recruits for computer engineering, electronics, and genetics. Architecture and Design seeks creative faculty, while Economics and Administrative Sciences needs experts in business and international relations.

Graduate programs in applied mathematics and molecular biology generate research-focused jobs. These departments prioritize hires who can contribute to both teaching and cutting-edge projects, aligning with Turkey's push for technological advancement.

Types of Jobs at Işık University

Career paths include tenure-track professors, adjunct lecturers, postdoctoral researchers, and administrative roles like department heads. Research assistants support labs, while staff positions cover HR (see higher ed HR jobs) and executive leadership.

For a full breakdown, explore university job types. Faculty jobs often involve teaching undergraduate and graduate courses, supervising theses, and publishing research.

Required Academic Qualifications for Jobs at Işık University

A PhD (Doctor of Philosophy) in the relevant field is standard for faculty and senior research positions. Master's degrees suffice for lecturers or assistants. For example, engineering roles require a PhD in electrical or mechanical engineering.

Turkish citizenship or work permits are needed for non-EU applicants, with language proficiency in Turkish and English. Certifications like YÖK (Higher Education Council) equivalency apply for foreign degrees.

• PhD for professors and associate professors
• Master's for lecturers and research assistants
• Bachelor's plus experience for administrative roles

Research Focus and Expertise Needed

Işık University prioritizes research in AI, renewable energy, and biotechnology. Expertise in interdisciplinary areas like data science or sustainable architecture is highly valued. Projects often collaborate with industry partners in Istanbul's tech hub.

Candidates with grants from TÜBİTAK (Scientific and Technological Research Council of Turkey) stand out. Publications in Scopus-indexed journals demonstrate fit for research-intensive jobs.

Preferred Experience for Işık University Jobs

Employers favor 3-5 years of teaching experience, peer-reviewed publications (at least 5-10), and grant funding history. International conference presentations or patents boost profiles. For admin roles, 5+ years in higher ed management is ideal.

Prior work at Turkish universities or abroad enhances competitiveness, especially in English-taught programs.

Skills and Competencies

Essential skills include strong communication, curriculum development, and student mentoring. Technical proficiency in tools like MATLAB for engineers or statistical software for social scientists is key.

Soft skills: adaptability in multicultural settings, teamwork, and leadership. Digital literacy for online teaching platforms is crucial post-pandemic.

• Research methodology and grant writing
• Cross-cultural communication
• Project management

📋 Application Process and Tips

Monitor the university's career page or university jobs listings. Submit CV, cover letter, transcripts, and three references via email or portal. Interviews may include teaching demos and research presentations.

Tips:

• Customize your CV to Turkish academic standards (include photo, publications list).
• Highlight Turkish language skills if applicable.
• Network at academic conferences in Istanbul.
• Follow up politely after two weeks.
• Prepare for YÖK interviews if required.

Diversity and Inclusion Initiatives

Işık University champions diversity via the Women in STEM program, supporting female researchers with mentorship and funding. International student quotas extend to faculty hires, with English programs aiding global talent.

Accessibility offices promote inclusive hiring for disabled candidates, and cultural events celebrate Turkey's multicultural fabric. Scholarships for underrepresented groups reflect commitment to equity.

⚖️ Work-Life Balance and Campus Life

Flexible schedules, remote work options, and parental leave support balance. The Şile campus offers green spaces and sports facilities, while Üsküdar provides urban vibrancy near the Bosphorus.

Employee wellness includes gym access, counseling, and social clubs. Istanbul's cafes, history, and events enrich life outside work, with affordable housing nearby. Annual retreats and professional development days foster community.

Definitions

Tenure-track: A faculty path leading to permanent position after review of teaching, research, and service.
Postdoc (Postdoctoral Fellow): Temporary research role post-PhD for advanced training.
YÖK: Turkey's Higher Education Council, overseeing academic appointments.
TÜBİTAK: National research funding body supporting projects.

Summary: Pursue Your Career at Işık University

Jobs at Işık University offer rewarding paths in a vibrant Istanbul setting. From faculty to research roles, prepare with insights from higher ed jobs and higher ed career advice. Browse university jobs or post a job to connect. Start your journey today.