King Khalid University (KKU), established in 1998 by royal decree in Saudi Arabia, stands as one of the nation's premier public institutions of higher education. Located in the picturesque city of Abha in the Asir Province, southern Saudi Arabia, KKU has grown into the largest university in the region, serving over 60,000 students across its multiple campuses. The university's mission aligns closely with Saudi Arabia's Vision 2030, emphasizing innovation, research excellence, and community development. Jobs at King Khalid University span faculty positions, research roles, administrative support, and specialized technical jobs, attracting professionals passionate about advancing education in a dynamic cultural context.
Abha's highland location offers a cooler climate compared to other parts of Saudi Arabia, making it an appealing destination for academics seeking a balanced lifestyle. KKU's commitment to quality education is evident in its 22 colleges and faculties, covering disciplines from medicine and engineering to humanities and applied sciences. For those interested in higher education careers, positions here provide opportunities to contribute to Saudi Arabia's ambitious goals in knowledge-based economy transformation.
Founded as King Khalid University in 1998 through the merger of several existing colleges in Abha and other nearby areas, KKU quickly expanded to meet the growing demand for higher education in southern Saudi Arabia. By 2010, it had achieved full university status, incorporating advanced research centers and international partnerships. Today, it boasts state-of-the-art facilities, including smart classrooms, advanced laboratories, and a central library with digital resources accessible to faculty and staff.
The university's evolution reflects broader national priorities, such as increasing female participation in education—now over 60% of students are women—and boosting research output. Faculty members have published thousands of papers in international journals, contributing to KKU's rising global rankings. This history makes jobs at King Khalid University particularly appealing for those wanting to be part of a forward-moving institution.
KKU offers over 150 undergraduate and graduate programs across diverse fields. Key colleges include the College of Medicine, College of Engineering, College of Computer Science, College of Education, and the Faculty of Sharia and Islamic Studies. Graduate programs, including master's and PhD levels, emphasize research in areas like renewable energy, biotechnology, and tourism management—tailored to Asir's natural resources.
For job seekers, this breadth means opportunities in teaching undergraduate courses, supervising theses, or leading research projects. Explore university job types to understand roles like adjunct professors or department chairs commonly available here.
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Jobs at King Khalid University demand rigorous qualifications tailored to higher education standards.
Required Academic Qualifications: For faculty roles like professor or associate professor, a PhD in the relevant field is mandatory. Lecturers often need a master's degree with proven teaching ability. Administrative positions in research centers may require a bachelor's plus specialized certifications.
Research Focus or Expertise Needed: KKU prioritizes areas aligned with national needs, such as health sciences (e.g., public health in mountainous regions), engineering (sustainable technologies), and environmental sciences (biodiversity in Asir). Candidates with experience in interdisciplinary research are favored.
Preferred Experience: A track record of publications in Scopus-indexed journals, securing research grants from bodies like the King Abdulaziz City for Science and Technology, and prior teaching experience. International collaborations add value.
Skills and Competencies:
These elements ensure hires contribute effectively to KKU's goals. Check how to write a winning academic CV for tailored advice.
Diverse opportunities exist:
Visit higher ed faculty jobs, research jobs, or administration jobs on AcademicJobs.com for similar listings. KKU often posts openings for postdoc and lecturer jobs.
The process begins on KKU's official careers portal. Steps include:
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KKU actively promotes diversity through programs like the Deanship of Female Faculty Members, supporting women in STEM—over 40% of faculty are female. International recruitment targets global talent, with scholarships for expatriate researchers. Cultural sensitivity training and prayer facilities ensure an inclusive environment. The university partners with global institutions, fostering cross-cultural exchanges.
KKU supports balance with a 40-hour workweek, generous annual leave (30+ days), and family housing on campus. Abha's climate allows outdoor activities like hiking in the Asir Mountains. Facilities include gyms, mosques, cafeterias, and child care. Faculty events, professional development workshops, and health services enhance well-being. End-of-service benefits and relocation support aid transitions.
The vibrant campus hosts cultural festivals, sports leagues, and research symposia, creating a community feel. Proximity to Riyadh (via flights) connects to urban amenities.
Competitive salaries (e.g., professors earn 20,000-40,000 SAR/month), research funding, and career progression make KKU attractive. Contribution to national development offers purpose. For broader opportunities, browse higher ed jobs, university jobs, or higher ed career advice on AcademicJobs.com. Institutions like KKU post via platforms supporting recruitment in Saudi Arabia.
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