Jobs at Nankai University encompass a wide range of opportunities in higher education, from tenure-track faculty positions to research support roles. As one of China's leading institutions, Nankai attracts top global talent for roles that contribute to its world-class research and teaching mission. Faculty positions, often referred to as professor jobs or lecturer jobs, form the core, while postdoctoral fellowships and research assistant jobs provide entry points for early-career academics. Administrative jobs in areas like international affairs and student services also abound. To understand the variety, explore our university job types page for detailed breakdowns.
These positions emphasize interdisciplinary collaboration, aligning with Nankai's strengths in STEM and social sciences. For instance, a typical assistant professor role in mathematics might involve teaching undergraduate courses, supervising graduate students, and leading a research lab funded by national grants.
Nankai University, located in Tianjin, China, was established in 1919 by educators Yan Xiu and Zhang Boling amid China's push for modern education. It has grown into a comprehensive research university with eight campuses spanning over 4,000 acres, hosting more than 30,000 students and 3,000 faculty. Nankai is a founding member of the C9 League (China's top nine universities, akin to the Ivy League), and it boasts alumni like Premier Zhou Enlai.
In global rankings, Nankai excels: QS World University Rankings places it in the top 200, with particular strength in mathematics—home to Fields Medalist Chern Shiing-shen—and chemistry. Recent achievements include breakthroughs in quantum materials and economic modeling, as highlighted in studies from Chinese teams. This prestige translates to dynamic jobs at Nankai University, where faculty contribute to cutting-edge work amid state-of-the-art facilities.
The university's motto, "Dedicate oneself to the public good," underscores a commitment to societal impact, making it an appealing destination for academics seeking meaningful careers in Asia Pacific higher education.
Nankai University's research priorities mirror China's national strategies, spanning mathematics, chemistry, physics, life sciences, environmental studies, economics, and business. Expertise in high-demand areas like artificial intelligence, renewable energy, and biomedical engineering is particularly sought. For example, the College of Chemistry has pioneered nanomaterials, while the School of Mathematical Sciences leads in algebraic geometry.
Candidates for research jobs should demonstrate proficiency in grant-funded projects, such as those from the National Natural Science Foundation of China (NSFC). Recent publications in journals like Nature or Science bolster applications. Links to ongoing work can be seen in news like Chinese teams' Nature breakthrough on Snowball Earth and ABF crystal advancements, showcasing Nankai's role in national innovation.
To secure jobs at Nankai University, candidates need robust credentials. For faculty positions, a PhD (Doctor of Philosophy) in the relevant field is mandatory, typically from a top global institution. Postdoctoral experience (1-3 years) is preferred, along with 5-10 peer-reviewed publications in high-impact journals (e.g., impact factor >5).
Preferred experience includes securing research grants, international collaborations, and teaching at least two courses. Key skills and competencies encompass:
Administrative roles may require MBAs or experience in higher ed operations. Learn more about higher ed faculty jobs or research jobs.
The application process for jobs at Nankai University begins with checking openings on their official site or platforms like AcademicJobs.com. Submit a tailored CV, cover letter, research proposal (3-5 pages), teaching statement, and three reference letters. Deadlines vary, but fall recruitment peaks September-November.
Actionable tips:
International applicants receive visa support. For broader advice, see employer branding secrets.
Nankai University actively promotes diversity through the Nankai Young Thousand Talents Plan, recruiting over 500 international scholars since 2011. Women in Science programs offer mentorship and funding, with female faculty comprising 35%. The International Affairs Office supports 2,000+ foreign students and faculty with language courses and cultural integration. Initiatives include anti-bias training and affinity groups for underrepresented minorities, fostering an inclusive environment aligned with China's global talent strategy.
Nankai's Tianjin campuses blend serene gardens with modern labs, promoting work-life balance via flexible schedules (no mandatory overtime), generous leave (20+ days annual), and family housing subsidies. Faculty access gyms, libraries open 24/7, and events like the Nankai Forum. Tianjin offers affordable living (cost of living ~10,000 CNY/month), high-speed rail to Beijing (30 min), and cultural sites like the Ancient Culture Street. Wellness programs include mental health support and sports clubs, helping academics thrive in this dynamic port city.
To aid understanding of jobs at Nankai University:
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