The Lebanese American University (LAU), located in Beirut, Lebanon, stands as a beacon of higher education in the Middle East. Established in 1994, LAU has evolved into a leading private institution with campuses in Beirut and Byblos, serving over 9,000 students. Accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE), it offers American-style education blending liberal arts with professional programs. Jobs at Lebanese American University attract professionals seeking dynamic academic environments amid Lebanon's rich cultural heritage and Mediterranean charm.
Careers at LAU span faculty positions, administrative roles, research opportunities, and support staff. The university emphasizes excellence in teaching, research, and community engagement, making it ideal for those passionate about higher education. With Lebanon's strategic position, LAU jobs often involve international collaborations, particularly in fields like engineering, business, and health sciences.
Founded as a merger of institutions with roots in the 19th century, LAU officially launched in 1994 to meet Lebanon's post-civil war need for quality education. From humble beginnings, it expanded rapidly, gaining full university status by 2001. Today, LAU boasts schools of Arts and Sciences, Business, Engineering, Pharmacy, Law, and Medicine, driving job growth in academia.
The university's career trajectory reflects Lebanon's resilience. Despite challenges, LAU has hired globally, building a faculty of over 700. Key milestones include NECHE accreditation in 2020 and partnerships with U.S. universities, opening doors for faculty jobs and research roles. Historical expansions, like the Byblos campus in 2006, have created ongoing opportunities in administration and support.
Understanding LAU's history helps job seekers appreciate its commitment to stability and innovation, positioning it as a top employer in Lebanon's higher education sector.
Jobs at Lebanese American University are diverse, catering to various career stages. Faculty roles dominate, including assistant, associate, and full professors across disciplines. Research positions like postdocs and assistants thrive in labs focusing on sustainable energy and biomedical engineering. Administrative jobs cover HR, finance, and student services, while executive roles lead schools and centers.
For a deeper dive into university job types, including lecturer jobs and professor positions, visit our comprehensive guide. Adjunct faculty and part-time roles offer flexibility, ideal for building experience.
Securing jobs at Lebanese American University demands rigorous qualifications. Faculty positions generally require a PhD in the relevant field from an accredited institution. For example, engineering professors need expertise in civil or electrical engineering, often with ABET-aligned experience.
Research focus areas include renewable energy, AI applications in business, pharmaceutical sciences, and public health—aligned with Lebanon's priorities and global trends. Preferred experience encompasses 3-5 years of teaching, peer-reviewed publications (aim for 5+ in top journals), and grant funding from bodies like the U.S. National Science Foundation or EU Horizon programs.
Key skills and competencies:
Administrative roles seek master's degrees plus 5+ years in higher ed.
Faculty position: A role involving teaching, research, and service to the university and community, typically requiring a terminal degree like PhD.
Postdoctoral researcher: An advanced academic appointment post-PhD for specialized research training, often 1-3 years, leading to independent faculty careers.
NECHE accreditation: New England Commission of Higher Education, ensuring U.S.-style quality standards for LAU's programs.
ABET: Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology, validating engineering curricula globally.
The application process for jobs at Lebanese American University is straightforward yet competitive. Visit LAU's official careers page to find openings. Submit a tailored CV, cover letter highlighting fit, teaching philosophy statement, research plan, and three references online.
Actionable tips:
Use our free resume template and cover letter template to stand out. Learn more from how to write a winning academic CV.
LAU champions diversity, reflecting Lebanon's multicultural fabric. Initiatives include the Center for Gender Studies promoting women in STEM, scholarships for underrepresented groups, and faculty exchange programs with global partners. The university recruits internationally, with 30% non-Lebanese faculty, and offers anti-bias training. Policies support LGBTQ+ inclusion and accessibility for disabilities, fostering an equitable workplace.
Work-life balance at Lebanese American University is supported by generous leave policies, health insurance, and professional development funds. Flexible scheduling accommodates research and teaching. The Beirut campus overlooks the Mediterranean, with gyms, cafes, and events. Byblos campus features historic sites and green spaces. Employee perks include tuition discounts for dependents and cultural activities like art exhibits and sports leagues, enhancing daily life in vibrant Lebanon.
Challenges like regional instability are mitigated by robust safety protocols and remote work options.
Jobs at Lebanese American University offer impact in a growing institution. With competitive salaries (professors earn $40K-$80K USD equivalent), research funding, and career growth, it's appealing. Explore higher ed career advice, university jobs, and higher ed jobs for more. Institutions post openings on post a job. Ready for your next step? Check higher ed jobs today.
