Imam Abdulrahman Bin Faisal University (IAU), located in Dammam, Eastern Province, Saudi Arabia, stands as a prominent public university committed to advancing higher education and research in line with Saudi Arabia's Vision 2030. Formerly known as the University of Dammam until its renaming in 2014, IAU serves over 30,000 students across multiple campuses, offering a dynamic environment for academic professionals. Jobs at Imam Abdulrahman Bin Faisal University span faculty, research, and administrative roles, attracting educators and scholars eager to contribute to the Kingdom's knowledge economy.
The university's strategic position in Dammam, a key industrial hub near the Arabian Gulf, enhances opportunities in fields like petroleum engineering and health sciences. Academic careers here emphasize innovation, teaching excellence, and community service, making it an ideal destination for those seeking impactful positions in higher education.
Established in 1975, IAU began as the King Faisal University, evolving through mergers and expansions to become a comprehensive institution. In 2014, it was renamed to honor Imam Abdulrahman Bin Faisal, father of King Abdulaziz, reflecting its cultural significance. Today, it hosts 21 colleges and research centers, focusing on multidisciplinary excellence. This growth has created numerous jobs at Imam Abdulrahman Bin Faisal University, particularly in expanding programs like medicine and engineering.
The university's development aligns with national reforms, investing in infrastructure such as state-of-the-art labs and digital libraries, which support faculty in conducting cutting-edge research.
IAU offers diverse programs across colleges of medicine, dentistry, pharmacy, nursing, engineering, computer science and information technology, sciences, arts, education, and applied sciences. Popular degrees include Bachelor of Medicine, Bachelor of Engineering in Civil or Mechanical, and Master's in Public Health. These programs drive demand for specialized faculty, with jobs at Imam Abdulrahman Bin Faisal University often requiring expertise in these areas.
Deanships like e-Learning and Quality provide administrative positions, while research institutes target interdisciplinary projects.
Jobs at Imam Abdulrahman Bin Faisal University include full-time faculty such as professors, associate professors, assistant professors, and lecturers; research positions like postdocs and research assistants; and support roles in administration, IT, and HR. Faculty openings dominate, especially in STEM fields. For a full breakdown, visit our university job types page to understand lecturer vs professor distinctions and more.
To secure faculty jobs at Imam Abdulrahman Bin Faisal University, candidates typically need a PhD in the relevant discipline from a recognized institution. For professor and associate professor roles, 10+ years of post-PhD experience is standard. Assistant professors require a PhD with 3-5 years of experience, while lecturers may hold a Master's degree plus teaching credentials. All positions demand fluency in English and Arabic, with preference for Saudi nationals under Saudization policies—a government initiative promoting local employment in key sectors.
Administrative roles vary, often needing a Bachelor's or Master's in management, business, or related fields.
IAU prioritizes research aligned with Vision 2030, including health sciences (oncology, infectious diseases), engineering (sustainable energy, AI), and environmental studies (water desalination). Expertise in grant-funded projects, interdisciplinary collaboration, and high-impact publications is essential. Research centers like the Institute of Research and Medical Consultations seek specialists in genomics and nanotechnology.
Successful applicants often have 5+ peer-reviewed publications, prior teaching at accredited universities, and experience securing research grants from bodies like the King Abdulaziz City for Science and Technology (KACST). International experience, supervision of theses, and industry partnerships are highly valued for jobs at Imam Abdulrahman Bin Faisal University.
Key skills include strong communication for lecturing, data analysis for research, curriculum development, and leadership for department heads. Competencies like cultural sensitivity, given Saudi Arabia's context, and digital proficiency for e-learning platforms are crucial. Soft skills such as teamwork and adaptability thrive in IAU's collaborative environment.
Saudization: A national policy to increase Saudi nationals' employment in private and public sectors, including academia, by quotas and incentives.
Vision 2030: Saudi Arabia's strategic framework for economic diversification, emphasizing education, research, and innovation.
Postdoc: A postdoctoral fellowship, a temporary position for recent PhD graduates to gain advanced research experience.
Peer-reviewed publications: Academic papers vetted by experts for validity and quality, essential for career progression.
The application process starts on IAU's official portal (iau.edu.sa), where you upload documents like CV, transcripts, and recommendation letters. Deadlines vary by position, often aligning with academic semesters.
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Learn more from how to write a winning academic CV.
IAU advances diversity through the Deanship of Female Students' Affairs, separate campuses for women, and scholarships for underrepresented groups. Under Vision 2030, female enrollment has surged to 60%, with initiatives like women-only research grants. The university recruits globally, fostering an inclusive environment with anti-discrimination policies and cultural training.
IAU supports work-life balance with 30-45 day annual leave, family housing in Dammam, healthcare, and end-of-service benefits. Campus life includes mosques, sports complexes, cafeterias, and events like cultural festivals. Proximity to beaches and malls enhances living in Eastern Province. Faculty enjoy professional development via workshops and sabbaticals.
With competitive salaries (SAR 15,000-40,000/month for faculty), research funding, and growth opportunities, IAU is a top choice. Explore more higher ed jobs, career advice, or university jobs on AcademicJobs.com. Post a job if recruiting, or check recruitment services.
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