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Nazarbayev University

Ranked & featured
Astana City, Kazakhstan
376–400th in World University Rankings 2027
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About Nazarbayev University

Basic information and contact details for Nazarbayev University

Top Research University in Central Asia

Founded in 2010, Nazarbayev University (NU) is a flagship academic institution in Central Asia with ambitions to achieve global recognition as a top-tier research university. Located in the heart of Eurasia, in Kazakhstan's capital, Astana, NU distinguishes itself through a fully merit-based admission system that seamlessly integrates professor-led teaching and research from a student’s very first day as a freshman. NU is more than just a university; it is an institution dedicated to equipping graduates with the skills they need to thrive in an era of globalization and technological advancement.

NU is committed to expanding its impact and reputation in Central Asia and beyond. Since its founding, NU has built partnerships with top universities and research centers across 22 countries, enhancing its global visibility. These collaborations drive faculty, student, and staff exchanges while fostering joint research initiatives, positioning NU as a key academic player.

Through active participation in global academic networks, NU attracts talented students and researchers. As a founding member of the Asian Universities Alliance (AUA), established in 2017, NU addresses regional and global challenges in higher education, economic development, and scientific advancement through institutional collaboration. To strengthen its global presence, NU will expand collaborative degree programs with international universities and host global conferences, workshops, and seminars, fostering knowledge exchange. Ranked among the top 106 World Young Universities and in the top 30% of research institutions worldwide, NU offers a dynamic environment for aspiring global leaders.

Focus on Research

NU is committed to achieving research excellence that drives socioeconomic progress in Kazakhstan and the region. Our research spans STEM disciplines, life sciences, social sciences, and education, aligning with Kazakhstan's strategic priorities. We are dedicated to expanding research capabilities in collaboration with government, industry, and research partners to address global challenges. NU is rapidly developing doctoral and postdoctoral programs, fostering a vibrant postdoctoral community to catalyze a robust research culture. These researchers will inspire students and bolster faculty research, advancing NU’s mission of knowledge dissemination and innovation.

Global partnerships enhancing research capacity

NU is dedicated to expanding its impact and reputation in Central Asia and globally. Since its founding, NU’s focus on strategic partnerships with top-tier universities and research centers worldwide has enhanced its international visibility and reach. These collaborations, which span 22 countries, facilitate faculty, student, and staff exchanges and drive joint research initiatives, positioning NU as a key player in the global academic community.

NU has showcased its achievements through active participation in global academic networks, attracting talented students and researchers from diverse backgrounds. NU is committed to addressing regional and global challenges, particularly those related to higher education, economic development, and scientific advancement, by fostering collaboration among member institutions.

To further solidify its global presence, NU will focus on collaborative degree programs with international universities, enhancing its reputation in teaching and research. NU’s outreach strategy will also prioritize hosting international conferences, workshops, and seminars, drawing global experts and scholars to engage with NU’s academic community, and creating a vibrant forum for knowledge exchange.

NU holds a position among the top 106 World Young Universities and ranks in the top 30% of research institutions worldwide, offering a dynamic environment for aspiring global leaders. 

NU has established partnerships and signed Memorandums of Understanding and Student Exchange agreements with prestigious institutions and organizations worldwide. These collaborations aim to foster academic and research excellence, encourage innovation and promote development in various fields.

Rankings

Select the type of rankings below to see stats

Key Student Statistics

A breakdown of student statistics at Nazarbayev University

gender ratio
Student gender ratio
52 F : 48 M (1)
globe fill
International student percentage
4% (1)
student per staff
Students per staff
14.1 (1)
student
Student total
6396 (1)

Based on data collected for the (1) World University Rankings 2027

Jobs at Nazarbayev University

Open positions for academics and staff at Nazarbayev University

See all

Assistant, Associate, and Full Professor in the School of Computing and Artificial Intelligence

NAZARBAYEV UNIVERSITY

Nazarbayev University

United Kingdom

institution

Nazarbayev University

United Kingdom


Company Description Nazarbayev University (NU), located in Astana, the vibrant capital of Kazakhstan, is an innovative, Western-style, English-medium institution founded with the support of leading partner universities worldwide. Currently ranked among the top 401-500 universities in the world by the Times Higher Education (THE) World University Rankings 2026, NU prides itself on academic freedom, institutional autonomy, and a merit-based system. In response to Kazakhstan's strategic economic transition and the presidential declaration of 2026 as the Year of Digitalization and Artificial Intelligence, NU launched the School of Computing and Artificial Intelligence (SCAI). SCAI is a newly consolidated, non-departmentalized school that merges the Department of Computer Science, the Department of Robotics Engineering, and the Department of Mathematics to remove traditional academic silos. This creates a deeply synergistic ecosystem where mathematical rigor accelerates algorithmic innovation and applied computing. Job Description SCAI invites applications from exceptional scholars at the Assistant, Associate, and Full Professor ranks to join our rapidly expanding international faculty. We are particularly interested in candidates with expertise in high-impact areas, including Generative AI, Natural Language Processing, Cybersecurity, Statistics, Physical AI, Computational Finance, and "AI for X" (interdisciplinary applications in health, mining, natural sciences, public policy, and business), as well as fundamental domains such as theoretical computing and software engineering. Responsibilities include: Developing and teaching undergraduate and graduate (Professional Master's, Research Master's, and PhD) courses in Computer Science, Data Science, AI, Robotics, and Applied Mathematics. Engaging in high-quality research, targeting publication in Top 10% journals and top-tier conferences. Securing and managing globally and nationally competitive external research grants. Supervising MS and PhD students and mentoring early-career faculty. Fostering robust partnerships with domestic and international industry leaders, contributing to deep-tech entrepreneurship, patent generation, and the incubation of startups. Collaborating across NU schools to bridge the gap between academic research and market-ready solutions. Qualifications ESSENTIAL Ph.D. in Computer Science, Artificial Intelligence, Robotics, Applied Mathematics, Data Science, Operations Research, or a closely related discipline from a globally respected university. For Assistant Professors: A strong trajectory of scholarly publications in Q1 Scopus-indexed journals or top-tier conferences, and clear potential for securing research funding and delivering high-quality teaching. For Associate/Full Professors: An internationally established research reputation underpinned by a robust publication record, significant success in obtaining competitive external research grants, and proven academic leadership. Experience in teaching and mentoring at the university level, with a commitment to innovative curriculum design and pedagogical excellence. Previous experience in the supervision and timely completion of Master's and Doctoral students (required for senior ranks). Strong communication skills and fluency in English (the medium of instruction and research). DESIRABLE Demonstrated experience in deep-tech entrepreneurship, intellectual property generation (patents), or startup incubation. Experience conducting applied research in large-scale supercomputing environments. Proven capacity to assume leadership roles in research clusters, academic program innovation, and internationalization efforts. Additional information Conditions of Employment: Initial appointment is on a 3-year renewable contract and will be subject to annual performance reviews. Subsequent appointments can be 5-year/3-year renewable. An attractive remuneration package includes: Internationally competitive salary; Generous research time, research seed grants, and selected conference travel funding; Holiday leave of 56 days per annum; Two flights for the appointee and dependents to their home country per annum; International health insurance; Rent-free housing on or near campus for the appointee and dependents; Assistance for relocation expenses, including airfares for the appointee and dependents, and child education allowance. Application Procedure Candidates should submit the following documents in electronic form (MS Word or PDF file) no later than September 30, 2026: Cover Letter: Specify the rank you are applying for. Explain your interest in joining SCAI at NU and align your qualifications with the high-impact areas mentioned above. Keep it concise (1-2 pages). Detailed Curriculum Vitae: Include contact information, education, professional appointments, teaching/supervision experience, leadership roles, research grants, publications (highlighting top-tier conferences and Q1 journals), patents, and startups. Teaching Statement:  A brief document (1-2 pages) describing your teaching philosophy, pedagogical approaches, experience with curriculum design, and commitment to student mentoring. Research Statement: Summarize your research agenda for the next 3–5 years, highlighting past outputs, ongoing collaborations, and alignment with SCAI priorities (1-2 pages). Reference Letters: Names and contact details of three academic/professional referees. Review of applications will begin immediately and continue until the positions are filled. Only shortlisted candidates will be notified. Nazarbayev University is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees. For any inquiries related to the application, the strategic vision of the School, or specific posts, please contact the Dean of the School of Computing and Artificial Intelligence (SCAI), Prof. Atakan Varol, at ahvarol@nu.edu.kz.

Salary

Competitive

Posted

10 Aug 2026

Vice Dean for Research and Innovation, School of Sciences and Humanities

NAZARBAYEV UNIVERSITY

Nazarbayev University

Kazakhstan, Astana (ex Tselinograd)

institution

Nazarbayev University

Kazakhstan, Astana (ex Tselinograd)


Nazarbayev University (NU) is signalling a step change in its research ambitions. Our new President, Professor Waqar Ahmad, has committed NU to becoming a globally outstanding research-intensive university.  To do this, we are strengthening our academic leadership. Professor Rehan Sadiq has joined us as Provost, from his role as Provost and Vice President at the University of British Columbia (Okanagan Campus). Professor Bjorn Birgisson, a world-class research leader, is joining NU as Vice Provost Research and Innovation. Other outstanding leadership positions will be announced in the coming weeks. The Vice Dean Research and Innovation is part of this drive to enhance research leadership at NU, to enable us to achieve our potential as an internationally competitive research-intensive university. NU is a young institution in Kazakhstan, conceived as a beacon of excellence, and thus holds significant strategic value for the country's and the region’s development. Our students are equivalent in ability to those attending the Ivy League or the Russell Group universities. Faculty come from around 60 nationalities, mostly with doctorates from leading, research-intensive universities. The School of Sciences and Humanities (SSH) comprises 220 faculty members and 2,500 undergraduate students. It encompasses basic sciences, social sciences and humanities disciplines. Research is at the heart of NU’s identity. We invest substantial amounts in research infrastructure and projects and compete for external research funds. While we can take pride in our research achievements, our current performance does not fully reflect our potential. Nor does the current position of 401-500 in the Times Higher World University Rankings reflect our strengths. The VDRI’s role will be to enhance productivity and quality of research across the School. Considering that 80% of SSH relates to STEM areas, your disciplinary background will be in the physical sciences (chemistry, mathematics or physics) but you will understand social sciences and humanities sufficiently to provide leadership across the School. To command authority and respect in the role you will hold Full Professorship with proven leadership experience and a record of developing research groups and individual scholars, and attracting research funds. As VDRI, you will be instrumental in achieving our ambitious goals by driving research excellence across all the discipline areas of SSH, fostering innovation, and strengthening NU's global academic standing. You will work closely with the Dean and Executive Committee of SSH as well as the Vice Provost Research and Innovation and the Provost. Benefits Nazarbayev University offers an internationally competitive compensation and benefits package, which includes: Internationally competitive salary Free fully furnished housing Relocation support International health insurance for faculty and dependents residing in Astana Education allowance for dependent children residing in Astana Application Instructions To apply, please submit the following documents: Cover letter outlining your vision for research leadership at SSH Detailed curriculum vitae Three letters of recommendation. If you have any questions regarding the vacancy, you can address them to the Dean of the School of Sciences and Humanities Dr. Gonzalo Hortelano by emailing  to ssh.deanoffice@nu.edu.kz.

Salary

Competitive

Posted

29 Dec 2025

Senior Teaching Fellow in the Center for Preparatory Studies

NAZARBAYEV UNIVERSITY

Nazarbayev University

Kazakhstan, Astana (ex Tselinograd)

institution

Nazarbayev University

Kazakhstan, Astana (ex Tselinograd)


Nazarbayev University’s Center for Preparatory Studies (CPS) is currently seeking qualified Teachers for our language courses: EAP or academic skills. CPS operates a Foundation Year Program (NUFYP) which emphasizes academic English, mathematics, and a “Leadership” course to prepare students for Nazarbayev University’s undergraduate schools. The minimum English entry level into NUFYP is an overall IELTS of 5.5; all classes are taught in English. Job Description As a member of the academic teaching team of CPS, a Senior Teaching Fellow is responsible for teaching courses, leading a team of teaching fellows, and overseeing the curricula and assessments of subject courses under the direction of the Head of Discipline and General Director. The STF will report to the relevant Head of Discipline. The STF is employed for 40-hours per week and shall comply with the internal teaching and work schedule instituted by CPS and by the requirements established by the legislation of the Republic of Kazakhstan. Qualifications Teaching and Learning support: To uphold NU principles of academic integrity and to provide guidance to colleagues and students on embedding NU Graduate Attributes in curricular and co-curricular activities. To strive for excellence in teaching both as a member and leader of a team of teaching fellows following the regulations and policies of NU and CPS. To advise and develop curriculum in conjunction with CPS leadership. To assist with designing, delivering, and marking assessments. To challenge thinking, foster debate and develop the ability of students to engage in critical thinking and rational discussions. To provide personalized academic support and feedback to students especially giving advice to accelerate the learning of talented students and helping students with learning disabilities. To actively encourage students to participate in the social and cultural life of the University. Quality assurance: To contribute to course development through periodic course reviews. To develop and ensure teaching materials, methods and approaches are in accordance with the established learning outcomes of the teaching program and policies of NU. To ensure that relevant NU regulations and policies are upheld, and to comply with the CPS program’s quality procedures and standards. To be lead invigilators of NUFYP entrance exams. Staff and Professional Development: To plan and lead professional development workshops under the supervision of the Head of Discipline and General Director of CPS. To conduct formal teaching observations and assist with annual reviews of teaching fellows. To pursue academic rigor through a commitment to academic, professional, and personal development. Administration and other activities: To take administrative and academic responsibility for a team of teaching fellows—providing mentoring leadership; ensuring their classes are well prepared and delivered as scheduled; seeing that assessments are marked and attendance recorded. To assist the management team in the operations of CPS and to facilitate communications within CPS and their team. To complete academic administration tasks (e.g., attendance data, compiling student progress reports, student surveys). To attend CPS meetings and to participate, as required, in other committee and working groups in CPS, NU Schools, and the University. To actively follow and promote NU policies, including equal opportunity, regardless of gender, sexual orientation, racial or ethnic origin or religion. To ensure compliance with health and safety procedures. To contribute to student recruitment, invigilate entrance examinations, facilitate outreach work, or participate in relevant professional activities. To participate in the CPS social programs where this is an integral part of the teaching/learning program (attending induction activities, welcome and graduation ceremonies). To carry out any other duties within the scope and purpose of the position as requested by the General Director of CPS or relevant Head of Discipline.

Salary

Competitive

Posted

10 Feb 2026

Assistant Professor of Marketing (Quantitative Marketing)

NAZARBAYEV UNIVERSITY

Nazarbayev University

Kazakhstan, Astana (ex Tselinograd)

institution

Nazarbayev University

Kazakhstan, Astana (ex Tselinograd)


Nazarbayev University, Graduate School of Business — Astana, Kazakhstan Position: Assistant Professor of Marketing (Quantitative Marketing)  Start date: August 2027 (an earlier start in January 2027 may be considered in exceptional cases) Application deadline: October 9, 2026 (review continues until the position is filled) The Graduate School of Business (GSB) at Nazarbayev University invites applications for a full-time faculty position in Quantitative Marketing at the Assistant Professor level, beginning August 2027. An earlier start in January 2027 may be considered in exceptional circumstances. We seek candidates who specialize in quantitative marketing, including areas such as empirical or analytical modeling, digital marketing, and marketing analytics. Qualifications Applicants must hold a PhD in Marketing, Economics, or a related field before the starting date. Candidates should have a publication record or strong publication potential in leading journals (e.g., UTD-24, FT-50, ABS 4*/4) and a solid research pipeline. Candidates are expected to teach Digital Marketing, Marketing Analytics, Data Analytics, or related areas at the undergraduate and graduate levels. About the school Located in Astana, Kazakhstan, the Nazarbayev University Graduate School of Business (NUGSB) was established in 2013 and offers PhD, Executive MBA, MBA, MSc in Finance, MA in Economics, and BBA programs, including a Eurasian Business BBA delivered jointly with the HKUST Business School in Hong Kong. NUGSB is a research-intensive business school, offering its faculty generous research time, an efficient teaching load, and an internationally competitive salary and benefit package. Generous internal research grants are available on a competitive basis. According to the UT Dallas global ranking of research-intensive business schools, NUGSB is ranked number one in Eurasia and among the top five globally for young business schools. NUGSB holds AMBA accreditation for its MBA programs and school-wide BGA accreditation for responsible management. English is the language of instruction and of the workplace. The diverse faculty at NUGSB have received their PhDs from leading schools such as Stanford, INSEAD, Columbia, NYU, Cornell, Northwestern, and LBS. Nazarbayev University Kazakhstan's government is committed to establishing a world-class research-oriented university that will provide the highest quality education in Kazakhstan and Central Asia. Nazarbayev University is a US-style, research-oriented university that is the flagship of that commitment. The university was created with support from leading universities around the world, including the University of Cambridge, the Colorado School of Mines, Duke University, the National University of Singapore, the University of Pennsylvania, the University of Pittsburgh, and the University of Wisconsin–Madison. Astana Astana is a young, international capital of more than 1.5 million people. Over the past two decades it has grown into a modern city with a full cultural and social life: an opera house and concert halls, national museums and galleries, a wide range of restaurants and cafés, parks and riverside promenades, and modern sports facilities. A skyline shaped by leading international architects and the legacy of Expo 2017 give the city a distinctive character. Astana is safe, affordable and easy to settle in, with international schools, an active expatriate community, and direct flights to major hubs in Europe, the Middle East and Asia. The university campus is a short distance from the city centre. Compensation and benefits NUGSB offers a highly competitive salary and benefit package, including health insurance, a child educational allowance, housing benefits, and a home leave allowance. How to apply Apply through the NUGSB Application Portal (a Google account is needed to upload files) or email your application to hr_gsb@nu.edu.kz with the subject line "QM — [Your Name]". Your application should include a cover letter, CV, job market paper, research statement, and teaching statement (with teaching evaluations if available). Three letters of reference will be requested from short-listed candidates. Applications received by October 9, 2026 receive full consideration. Informal inquiries: Mustafa Karatas (mustafa.karatas@nu.edu.kz). Website: https://gsb.nu.edu.kz/ Nazarbayev University is an equal-opportunity employer and welcomes applications from all qualified candidates regardless of gender, age, disability, race, nationality, property, social, or official status, place of residence, religion, political beliefs, or membership in any clan, social class, or public association.

Salary

Competitive

Posted

25 Sep 2026

Assistant / Associate Professor (Strategic Management/Entrepreneurship/Organizational Behavior

NAZARBAYEV UNIVERSITY

Nazarbayev University

Kazakhstan, Astana (ex Tselinograd)

institution

Nazarbayev University

Kazakhstan, Astana (ex Tselinograd)


About NUGSB. Since its inception in 2013, NUGSB has built a rapidly growing reputation as the leading research-intensive business school in Central Asia. The school consistently ranks as the number one school in the region, and is ranked top 5 among the research-intensive business schools founded since 2000.  We have attracted faculty who received their PhDs from leading institutions such as Cornell, Columbia, Stanford, INSEAD, LSE. Our faculty members have published their work in leading FT 50 and UT Dallas journals. The school is accredited by AMBA and BGA and is in advanced stage of the AACSB accreditation process. Nazarbayev University and Astana. Kazakhstan’s government is committed to establishing a world-class research-oriented university that will provide the highest quality education in Kazakhstan and Central Asia. Located in Astana, Nazarbayev University is a US-style, research-oriented university that is the flagship of that commitment. The university was created with support from leading universities around the world, including: Cambridge University, Colorado School of Mines, Duke University, National University of Singapore, University of Pennsylvania, University of Pittsburg, University of Wisconsin-Madison. The university benefits from its location in Astana, the relatively new capital of Kazakhstan. Founded three decades ago, Astana has blossomed into a thriving modern metropolis with a population of over one million, including expats from over 100 countries. Described as “brash and grandiose—and wildly attractive” by National Geographic, and as “the futuristic frontier of architecture” by the Guardian, the city successfully hosted the 2017 World Expo. The city boasts not only modern architecture but also a vibrant cultural scene with museums, an opera house, bars, restaurants to suit every palette, and a rich night life. About Kazakhstan. Rich in natural resources, Kazakhstan has experienced extraordinary economic growth since it gained independence from the Soviet Union in 1991. The country is currently considered an Upper Middle Income Country by the World Bank and is consistently ranked as one of the world’s top 20 locations for foreign direct investment (FDI). What We Offer At NUGSB we offer the following to our faculty: Generous research time Research grants and other competitive funding opportunities Funding for research conferences and research visits Highly competitive salaries comparable to top R1 US schools Competitive teaching load, often taught in modular format Expatriate benefits (housing, home travel, health insurance, schooling allowance for school-age children) Opportunities in executive education Candidates should have a PhD degree in the relevant field from an accredited institution, an excellent research record or the potential to publish their work in top journals in the field. We welcome highly-qualified entry-level applicants as well as experienced faculty. The Application Process If you are interested, we encourage you to apply by clicking on the link: NUGSB Application Portal or email hr_gsb@nu.edu.kz Your application should include: A cover letter highlighting your specific area of expertise, motivation and interest in the position; Sample of written work (including job market paper) Names and contact details to request three letters of recommendation (after shortlisted) Research Agenda Teaching Approach Curriculum Vitae (CV). For more information about NUGSB please visit our website: http://gsb.nu.edu.kz. You will also find information about our faculty at: https://gsb.nu.edu.kz/facultyresearch/faculty-profiles/. Shortlisted applicants will be invited for interviews with NUGSB faculty. Nazarbayev University is an equal opportunity employer.

Salary

Competitive

Posted

23 Sep 2026

Subjects Taught at Nazarbayev University

See below for a range of subjects taught at Nazarbayev University

Arts and Humanities

  • History, Philosophy and Theology
  • Languages, Literature and Linguistics

Business and Economics

  • Accounting and Finance
  • Business and Management
  • Economics and Econometrics

Computer Science

  • Computer Science

Education Studies

  • Education

Engineering

  • Chemical Engineering
  • Civil Engineering
  • Electrical and Electronic Engineering
  • General Engineering
  • Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering

Life Sciences

  • Biological Sciences
  • Sport Science

Medical and Health

  • Medicine and Dentistry
  • Other Health

Physical Sciences

  • Chemistry
  • Geology, Environmental, Earth and Marine Sciences
  • Mathematics and Statistics
  • Physics and Astronomy

Social Sciences

  • Politics and International Studies
  • Sociology

Downloads

Download in-depth information about Nazarbayev University

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School of Engineering and Digital Sciences.pdf

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Business Schoolf.pdf

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Foundation.pdf

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School of Education.pdf

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School of Medicine.pdf

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School of Mining and Geosciences.pdf

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School of Public Policy.pdf

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School of Sciences and Humanities.pdf

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NU is #1 in Central Asia and the Caucausus.pdf