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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

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

Mathematics Teaching Fellow at Center for Preparatory Studies

NAZARBAYEV UNIVERSITY

Nazarbayev University

Kazakhstan, Astana (ex Tselinograd)

institution

Nazarbayev University

Kazakhstan, Astana (ex Tselinograd)


Nazarbayev University Profile Nazarbayev University (NU), located in Astana, Kazakhstan, is an English-language research university.  It was established in 2010 as a flagship academic institution with ambitions to achieve global recognition as a top-tier research university in Kazakhstan in partnership with leading universities from around the world. Admission to NU is highly competitive and the University accepts the best students from the country and region. In a short 13 years since its inception, NU has achieved notable recognition, entering the Times Higher Education Global Ranking in 2024 and securing a position in the top 30% of research universities worldwide. Presently, NU stands as the leading university in Central Asia. The Center for Preparatory Studies The Center for Preparatory Studies (CPS) at Nazarbayev University was founded in 2010 in cooperation with University College London and was the first division of the Nazarbayev University. In 2015, Nazarbayev University created its own Foundation Year Program (NUFYP). This Program was specifically designed for Kazakhstani students and provides academic instruction that prepares students to be successful in top English-medium universities around the world. The vast majority of students who have completed NUFYP have advanced to successful undergraduate study in Nazarbayev University while a few students immediately pursued an international education. Job Description As a NUFYP Mathematics Teaching Fellow, you would have 16-18 contact hours per week (e.g., lectures, seminars, office hours), and perform eight hours of support in working groups (e.g., materials development, assessment creation). Qualifications A successful candidate must demonstrate the qualifications and character required to effectively lead, teach, and work in an intensive undergraduate preparatory program in Kazakhstan. Completed Master’s degree in mathematics or in a related field combined with applicable experience Excellent teaching competencies with the ability to teach cooperatively to deliver a unified curriculum Evidence of a strong work ethic, mature professional behavior, and exemplary personal character Experience that demonstrates the ability to cooperatively work in a multicultural educational environment Excellent English and overall communication skills with the ability to follow written and oral instructions  The ability to contribute to NU’s core values

Salary

Competitive

Posted

7 Oct 2026

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

Teaching Fellow of 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 NUFYP Teaching Fellows teach up to 18 student-contact hours per week (lecture, seminars,office hours) and perform eight hours of support in working groups (e.g., materials development,assessment creation), and can volunteer with student clubs, serving on university committees, offering short courses in our learning center, or presenting professional development workshops. Candidates with an interest in teaching academic skills in a content course are desired. Qualifications The successful candidate must have the qualifications, experience, character, and skills required to effectively teach in an undergraduate preparatory program. These include: Completed Master’s degree in an appropriate subject area (e.g., Education, EAP, TESL, Applied Linguistics) Teaching abilities – usually demonstrated through relevant work experience with international foundation teaching experience preferred The ability to teach in a multicultural educational environment and collaborate as a supportive team member Possessing a robust work ethic, exemplary professional behavior, and strong moral character Excellent communications skills – the ability to follow written and oral instructions The ability to contribute NU’s core values

Salary

Competitive

Posted

10 Feb 2026

Teaching Fellow in English for Academic Purposes at Center for Preparatory Studies

NAZARBAYEV UNIVERSITY

Nazarbayev University

Kazakhstan, Astana (ex Tselinograd)

institution

Nazarbayev University

Kazakhstan, Astana (ex Tselinograd)


Nazarbayev University Profile Nazarbayev University (NU), located in Astana, Kazakhstan, is an English-language research university. It was established in 2010 as a flagship academic institution with ambitions to achieve global recognition as a top-tier research university in Kazakhstan in partnership with leading universities from around the world. Admission to NU is highly competitive and the University accepts the best students from the country and region. In a short 13 years since its inception, NU has achieved notable recognition, entering the Times Higher Education Global Ranking in 2024 and securing a position in the top 30% of research universities worldwide. Presently, NU stands as the leading university in Central Asia. The Center for Preparatory Studies The Center for Preparatory Studies (CPS) at Nazarbayev University was founded in 2010 in cooperation with University College London and was the first division of the Nazarbayev University. In 2015, Nazarbayev University created its own Foundation Year Program (NUFYP). This Program was specifically designed for Kazakhstani students and provides academic instruction that prepares students to be successful in top English-medium universities around the world. The vast majority of students who have completed NUFYP have advanced to successful undergraduate study in Nazarbayev University while a few students immediately pursued an international education. Job Description NUFYP academic English faculty teach up to 18 student-contact hours per week (lectures, seminars, office hours) and perform eight hours of support in working groups (e.g., materials development, assessment creation), and can volunteer with student clubs, serve on university committees, offer short courses in our learning center, or present professional development workshops. Candidates with an interest in teaching academic skills in a content course are desired. Qualifications The successful candidate must have the qualifications, experience, character, and skills required to effectively teach in an undergraduate preparatory program. These include: Completed Master’s degree in an appropriate subject area (e.g., Education, EAP, TESL, Applied Linguistics) Teaching abilities – usually demonstrated through relevant work experience with international foundation teaching experience preferred The ability to teach in a multicultural educational environment and collaborate as a supportive team member Possessing a robust work ethic, exemplary professional behavior, and strong moral character Excellent communication skills – the ability to follow written and oral instructions The ability to contribute to NU’s core values Additional information To Apply click the link and upload (in PDF if possible): Curriculum Vitae: max 4 pages (normal font and spacing) and include (in the 4 pages) your Contact Information for at least two referees and the contact information of your current/most recent supervisor. Note: referees/employer will not be contacted unless you are shortlisted and give permission. A separate Cover Letter (max 1 page). A separate document which includes: (1) a paragraph of about 100 words stating your reason(s)/motivation for applying, (2) a single sentence of 50 words or less that describes your teaching philosophy; and (3) the completion of the following sentences: a) My educational background prepares me to teach in CPS because… b) My professional experience prepares me to teach in a foundation program because… c) My personality and character are suitable to work and live in Kazakhstan because… Do not upload any other materials to your application at this time (only the three documents). Prior to shortlisting, candidates may be asked to complete a Professional/Personality Task. Candidates offered a contract must provide a background check, certification of degrees, and other documents as may be required. We will begin reviewing applications immediately; applications received before 25 October 2026 will be accepted, with final interviews planned for early November; the position starts in early January 2027. Additional information can be found at the official website of Nazarbayev University www.nu.edu.kz. Nazarbayev University is an EOE.

Salary

Competitive

Posted

7 Oct 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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Graduate School of Business.pdf

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School of Computing and Artificial Intelligence.pdf

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School of Engineering.pdf

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School of Medicine.pdf

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Center for Preparatory Studies.pdf

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Graduate School of Education.pdf

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Graduate School of Public Policy.pdf

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School of Sciences and Humanities.pdf