FOUNDING FACULTY — BIOLOGY
Daanish University is an emerging institution in Islamabad, Pakistan, operating independently under a trust and offering rigorous STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts & Mathematics) education that converges with civilizational values to shape the future leaders of Pakistan. We develop graduates with strong fundamentals, multidisciplinary ability, and ethical grounding — drawn from diverse socio-economic backgrounds purely on merit. A national Outreach Program identifies, nurtures, and…
fully funds the most talented students from across the country.
THE SIX FOUNDING SCHOOLS
Mathematical, Natural & Computational Sciences · Intelligent Systems & Digital Engineering · Bioengineering & Material Sciences · Natural Resources & Energy · Planetary Systems, Climate & Infrastructure · Civilizational Studies
This role sits within the School of Bioengineering & Material Sciences. Faculty are housed in a school but collaborate across the university through our Grand Challenge Institutes, so deep disciplinary expertise is always applied to real-world national problems.
THE OPPORTUNITY
As founding faculty in Biology, you will build a life-sciences program spanning molecular and cell biology, genetics, physiology, and ecology, and establish teaching and research labs that connect naturally to Daanish's bioengineering and agri-food Grand Challenge Institutes — addressing health, agriculture, and environmental challenges facing Pakistan.
KEY RESPONSIBILITIES
Design and teach core and advanced courses across molecular/cell biology, genetics, physiology, and ecology Establish teaching and research laboratories, including equipment, biosafety, and field-research protocols Build a research program with applications to health, agriculture, or environmental biology Collaborate with the Agri-Food Systems, Bioeconomy & Rural Transformation institute and bioengineering colleagues Mentor undergraduate research, including wet-lab and field-based projects Help recruit founding colleagues and shape department and university governance
WHO WE SEEK
Builders, not maintainers — accomplished academics with a demonstrated capacity to create and innovate, experimenting rather than optimizing, and collaborating across disciplines. We welcome established scholars, newly qualified PhDs, and those nearing completion. International candidates are strongly encouraged to apply.
REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS
A PhD in Biology, Biotechnology, Bioengineering, or a related life-science field A research record with wet-lab and/or field research experience Readiness to build laboratory and biosafety infrastructure in a start-up environment
PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS
Research or applied experience in agriculture, public health, or environmental biology relevant to Pakistan or South Asia Experience designing undergraduate lab curricula from scratch Interest in interdisciplinary work with bioengineering, chemistry, or materials science colleagues
WHAT WE OFFER
Academic freedom, a strong research culture, balanced teaching loads, transparent policies, and a highly competitive package — provident fund, subsidised housing, healthcare, and relocation assistance — at a world-class, fully residential campus in Islamabad.
HOW TO APPLY
Apply on a rolling basis via our careers site with:
A letter of interest (maximum 2 pages) A detailed CV, with examples of programs, courses, or labs you have built Two references A brief vision statement: "What should undergraduate biology education look like in 2036?" Applications: careers@daanishuniversitytrust.org
ELIGIBILITY
Open to Pakistani nationals and qualified international academics. The University assists with visa processing and relocation for foreign nationals. PhD or terminal degree required, or demonstrated experience leading major higher-education initiatives.
Preferred start Fall 2027 · Applications on a rolling basis · Only shortlisted candidates contacted · Equal-Opportunity Employer