Khalifa University
Also known as: KU
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Rate Now!Shakhbout Bin Sultan St - Hadbat Al Za'faranah - Zone 1 - Abu Dhabi - United Arab Emirates
Also known as: KU
Khalifa University of Science and Technology, located in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates, stands as a beacon of innovation in higher education. Established to drive knowledge and research in science, engineering, and medicine, it plays a pivotal role in the UAE's vision for a knowledge-based economy. The university attracts top global talent for jobs at Khalifa University, offering roles that contribute to groundbreaking research and teaching excellence. With its state-of-the-art campuses in Abu Dhabi and Ras Al Khaimah, it provides an environment where academic professionals can thrive amid cutting-edge facilities and industry collaborations.
Jobs at Khalifa University span faculty appointments, research positions, and support roles, all aligned with the university's mission to address national priorities like sustainable energy and advanced healthcare. Whether you're a seasoned professor or an emerging researcher, opportunities here emphasize impact through publication, funding acquisition, and interdisciplinary work.
Founded in 2013 through the merger of three prestigious institutions—The Petroleum Institute, Masdar Institute of Science and Technology, and Khalifa University of Science, Technology & Research—Khalifa University has rapidly ascended in global rankings. By 2024, it ranked among the top 200 universities worldwide in engineering and technology, according to QS World University Rankings. This growth reflects the UAE government's commitment to fostering world-class education.
The university's history is rooted in the UAE's transformation from an oil-dependent economy to one focused on diversification. Early emphasis on petroleum engineering evolved into broader domains like robotics, AI, and space sciences, creating diverse jobs at Khalifa University that appeal to international experts.
Khalifa University operates through three colleges: College of Engineering and Physical Sciences, College of Arts and Sciences, and College of Medicine and Health Sciences. Undergraduate programs include Bachelor of Science degrees in aerospace engineering, biomedical engineering, and electrical engineering, while graduate offerings feature Master's and PhD programs in sustainable critical infrastructure and nuclear engineering.
Teaching roles, such as lecturer jobs and professor jobs, involve delivering these programs, mentoring students, and developing curricula. The university's academic CV requirements stress pedagogical innovation, making it ideal for educators passionate about research-led teaching.
Research is the cornerstone of Khalifa University, with over 100 research centers and labs. Priority areas include renewable energy, water security, advanced materials, and healthcare technologies. Recent advancements, such as nanomaterial-enhanced membranes for desalination highlighted in UAE studies, underscore its contributions. Partnerships with entities like EWEC for grid technology exemplify real-world impact.
Research jobs at Khalifa University, including research assistant jobs and postdocs, drive these initiatives. Faculty often lead projects funded by national bodies like the Abu Dhabi National Oil Company (ADNOC), blending academia with industry.
Common positions include assistant/associate/full professors, postdoctoral fellows, research associates, and administrative roles in HR or executive leadership. For a detailed breakdown, see our guide on university job types. Faculty jobs dominate, but opportunities in higher ed admin jobs support operations.
For faculty and senior research positions, a PhD in a relevant field is mandatory. Examples include PhD in Mechanical Engineering for aerospace roles or MD/PhD for medical faculty. Research focus must align with university priorities like AI in energy or biomedical imaging. Preferred experience encompasses 5+ years post-PhD, with 10+ peer-reviewed publications in high-impact journals (e.g., Nature, IEEE).
Skills and competencies include grant writing (e.g., securing UAE Research Program funding), interdisciplinary collaboration, and proficiency in tools like MATLAB or ANSYS. English fluency is essential, with Arabic advantageous.
Top candidates demonstrate international collaborations, patents, or industry consultancy. For instance, experience in UAE-specific challenges like desalination or smart cities boosts applications. Competencies cover leadership in labs, student supervision, and technology transfer.
Key terms for jobs at Khalifa University:
Applications go through the official portal at Khalifa University's careers page. Prepare a tailored CV, cover letter, research statement, and teaching philosophy. Interviews often include seminars and panel discussions.
Actionable tips:
Processing takes 2-6 months; visa sponsorship is standard for internationals.
Khalifa University champions diversity through the Gender Balance Taskforce, targeting 30% female faculty by 2025, and scholarships for underrepresented groups. International hires comprise 80% of faculty, fostering a global community. Events like Cultural Diversity Week and mentorship for Emirati women promote inclusion, aligning with UAE's National Agenda 2021.
The Abu Dhabi campus spans 3 million sqm with green spaces, gyms, mosques, and family housing. Flexible schedules, 30+ annual leave days, and remote options support balance. Employee wellness includes fitness classes and counseling. Proximity to UAE attractions like Yas Island enhances lifestyle, while tax-free salaries boost appeal.
Cultural adaptation is eased by orientation programs, emphasizing respect for Islamic traditions and work ethic.
Stay updated on impacts like US shutdowns on UAE research collaborations or Khalifa's EWEC partnership. Explore employer branding tips or global research news.
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