Nazarbayev University

Working, teaching and research at Nazarbayev University

Information about Nazarbayev University for Academics

Research Ecosystem Rooted in Community and Innovation

The university operates over 100 dedicated research laboratories, including a world-class Core Research Facility supporting engineering, computer science, and the physical sciences. NU also hosts 23 specialized laboratories in key domains such as electron microscopy, analytical chemistry, materials science, and biotechnology. Its Nanofabrication Facility, launched in 2022, is Kazakhstan’s first ISO 6 Cleanroom Nanolab, facilitating pioneering work in micro- and nano systems.

But what sets NU apart is its integrated ecosystem. NU’s Technopark is home to a growing community of resident startups and ventures - many founded by its own students, alumni, and faculty, but also open to external innovators.

Another key facility is the Fab Lab, a fabrication laboratory equipped with advanced tools that allow users to prototype instruments, devices, or experimental kits. By combining access to cutting-edge infrastructure with a collaborative, inclusive philosophy, NU fosters a space where ideas can move from concept to creation - whether from within the university or from the wider community it serves.

At the heart of Kazakhstan’s academic and technological revolution sits the Institute of Smart Systems and Artificial Intelligence (ISSAI) at Nazarbayev University. As the country’s premier AI research organisation, the ISSAI drives digital infrastructure and technological sovereignty, enhancing Kazakhstan’s role in the global AI landscape.

NU’s international collaboration rate of 63.8% reflects its strong commitment to fostering global research networks, placing it among internationally significant institutions such as King Saud University, the University of Luxembourg, and the National University of Singapore (NUS).

This metric, which measures the influence of research outputs, highlights NU’s growing impact and the increasing recognition of its contributions within the global academic community.

Teaching Excellence

We have a vibrant, international community with almost 500 faculty and staff from 62 countries. Faculty at NU deliver world-class curricula, with a focus on research-integrated teaching. Leading researchers provide opportunities for students to explore exciting fields of learning supported by faculty with outstanding knowledge, experience and pedagogical expertise.

NU has received global accreditation from the Quality Assurance Agency (QAA) UK, after an Institutional Quality Review (IQR) - a rigorous process which benchmarks global higher education institutions against the European Higher Education Area (ESG) international quality assurance standards. The IQR report noted NU’s:

high levels of student engagement, including student representation on all committees in the governance structure;
the university’s strong responsiveness to student feedback in programme design and delivery;
the excellent range of campus facilities and services that enhance the student learning experience;
the autonomy afforded to the university's Schools for the use of AI to inform innovation in learning and teaching;
the university's diverse, varied, and extensive group of high-calibre international staff and
strong collaborations with strategic partners to inform internal quality assurance;

NU is also partnering with Advanced Higher Education (AHE) UK to provide international certification through Fellowships to recognize the quality of faculty involved in teaching and the administration of teaching and learning.

Living in Astana: The Capital of Kazakhstan

At NU, you'll find not only outstanding opportunities for research and teaching, but also a vibrant and welcoming environment for living. Located in Astana—the fast-growing and modern capital of Kazakhstan—our community thrives at the intersection of tradition and innovation. The country itself offers stunning natural beauty, from expansive steppes to serene lakes and majestic mountains, along with a rich cultural heritage. Renowned for its hospitality, Kazakhstan features diverse cuisine, an active social life, and a steadily growing international community.

Open Positions

Jobs at Nazarbayev University

Open positions for academics and staff at Nazarbayev University

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Professor / Associate Professor in Inclusive Education

Nazarbayev University

Kazakhstan, Astana (ex Tselinograd)

Nazarbayev University

Kazakhstan, Astana (ex Tselinograd)

Nazarbayev University Graduate School of Education (NUGSE) invites applications from an exceptional scholar to join our international faculty and contribute to our vision of becoming a world-class center for teaching and research in education, specifically inclusive education. In response to ongoing growth, NUGSE seeks to hire a Full Professor/Associate Professor in Inclusive Education. Nazarbayev University (NU), located in Astana, Kazakhstan, is a new Western-style, English-medium institution founded with the support of leading partner universities worldwide. It ranks #1 in Central Asia and the Caucasus region, #4 in the CIS countries, and 401-500 in the world according to the Times Higher Education World University Rankings 2026. The Graduate School of Education ranks among the top 176-200 universities worldwide in education. The university is only 15 years old. For more information, please visit our official website: nu.edu.kz. NUGSE plays a pivotal role in driving education reform in Kazakhstan. We welcome faculty members who are passionate about making a difference through collaboration with schools, other universities, and the Ministry of Education and Science. GSE also houses a Research Institute, A Central Asian Research Centre for Educational Innovation and Transformation (CARCEIT), and a Professional Development Centre, playing a major role in educational research, policy advisory, and leadership capacity-building. NUGSE launched its first Master’s and PhD programmes in September 2013, supported by strategic partners, the University of Cambridge Faculty of Education (UK) and the University of Pennsylvania Graduate School of Education (USA). NUGSE offers a Master of Science in Educational Leadership, a Master of Arts in Multilingual Education, and a Doctor of Philosophy in Education. The M.Sc. in Educational Leadership includes specialisations in School Education, Inclusive Education, and Higher Education. NUGSE adopts an intersectional, social-justice-based understanding of inclusive education that encompasses disability, ethnicity, gender, linguistic diversity, migration, poverty, rurality, and other forms of marginalization, as reflected in contemporary international scholarship, e.g., epistemic justice. Job Description The successful applicant will hold a doctoral degree in education, preferably in inclusive education with a demonstrated research trajectory in one or more of the following areas of inclusive education: inclusive schooling, curriculum, assessment, psychology and counseling, assistive technology, rural and marginalized populations, leadership, policy and governance, intersecting areas such as culture and disability, and specialised educational needs. The candidate should present a robust scholarly portfolio that includes peer-reviewed publications, grant-funded projects, and evidence of sustained scholarly impact. A distinguished track record in pedagogical innovation is essential, including experience designing and delivering inclusive, evidence-based instruction in diverse educational settings. Qualifications ESSENTIAL PhD in a relevant discipline (preferably in inclusive education) from a well-respected university. Excellent record of scholarly learning and teaching in undergraduate and/or postgraduate programmes, including innovative curriculum design, academic programme development and leadership, and research supervision at master’s and doctoral levels. At least eight years of post-terminal degree teaching experience, with at least three years of teaching at the graduate level at respectable institutions of higher education. Internationally established research reputation at the Professorial level underpinned by publications in top-ranked peer-reviewed journals, knowledge translation expertise, and success in obtaining globally competitive external research grants. Demonstrate academic leadership that shapes global debates in inclusive education, including contributions to international research networks, editorial leadership, and advancement of theoretical and policy developments within the field. Evidence of a strong publication record (in Scopus-indexed Q1/Q2 journals). Evidence of successful contribution to developing a direction of research, leading research projects as a primary investigator, including grants of national and international importance. The appointee should have a proven record of securing substantial competitive funding and leading large-scale, multi-institutional or multi-country research programmes that generate measurable impact on policy and practice. Previous experience in the supervision, management and timely completion of doctoral students (at least 2), including advising and improving research excellence, career development and candidature management. Evidence of positive engagement with research, community, industry and government to enhance the national standing of the discipline within the inclusive education sector. Successful record of achieving milestones of strategic importance in leadership of teaching, research, and/ or project management. For example, leading large-scale, interdisciplinary, and/or community-based intervention research projects funded by national or international agencies (e.g., UNESCO, UNICEF, EU, Erasmus+, British Council. Proven high-level face-to-face and online teaching skills, and course design employing varying modes and delivery designs for an inclusive education curriculum. Expertise in inclusive pedagogical frameworks such as Universal Design for Learning (UDL), culturally responsive and sustaining pedagogy, and disability-inclusive curriculum and assessment design. Capacity to assume a senior leadership role in teaching, research and service in the School and University. This includes leading major research clusters, contributing to academic programme innovation, supporting internationalisation efforts, and strengthening the School’s global visibility through strategic collaborations. Thorough understanding of policies and conventions relevant to equity in education, such as ethnic and socio-cultural minorities, and economically disadvantaged groups, for example, Sustainable Development Goals, specifically SDG 4, the United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disability, and the current global Beyond 2030 debates. The School particularly welcomes candidates whose work advances decolonial, culturally grounded, and Global South perspectives on inclusive education, enriching the epistemic diversity of research and teaching. DESIRABLE Leadership of relevant professional associations. Knowledge of Kazakhstan and/ or Central Asia / post-Soviet contexts. Experience of serving in strategic bodies/committees at the university level and as a member of the editorial board of internationally recognised journals. Experience conducting research or collaboration in multilingual and multicultural contexts; knowledge of regional languages is an asset but not required. Additional Information Conditions of Employment: Initial appointment is on 3-year renewable contracts and will be subject to annual performance reviews. An attractive remuneration package will include: Internationally competitive salary; Holiday leave of 56 days per annum; Two flights for the appointee and dependents’ home per annum; International health insurance; Rent-free housing for the appointee and dependents; Assistance for relocation expenses, including air fares for the appointee and dependents. Application Procedure To apply, please submit the following documents, together with the names and contact details of two referees, online through the link no later than May 4, 2026. 1. Cover letter Specify the rank you are applying for: Full Professor or Associate Professor. Explain your interest in working at NUGSE Align your qualifications with the criteria listed in the job posting: highlight relevant teaching, supervision, leadership, research impact, grants, publications, and service. Keep it concise (2-3 pages only). 2. Updated CV Structure: contact information, education, professional appointments (with dates), teaching and supervision experience, administrative/leadership roles, research projects and grants, publications (peer-reviewed, books, chapters), awards, service, and references. 3. Teaching Dossier Teaching philosophy statement: 1–2 pages describing your approach to teaching and learning, assessment methods, inclusivity and equity, use of technology, and evidence-based improvements. Sample course outlines: 1-2 courses (include course codes, titles, brief description, learning outcomes, assessment methods, and sample reading lists). Sample student evaluations: include anonymised representative feedback and, if available, summary metrics illustrating teaching effectiveness. 4. Research Statement Summarise your research agenda, goals for the next 3–5 years, and how your work contributes to the field. Highlight recent publications with DOIs or links. Mention ongoing projects, collaborations, and potential for future grants or partnerships. Include a short paragraph on how your research aligns with NUGSE’s priorities, if possible 5. Reference Letters (2–3) Choose referees who know your work well and can comment on your qualifications relative to the position you’re applying for. The referees should have active jobs at reputable universities and should be at or above the rank for which you are applying. Notify referees early and provide at least 2-3 weeks before the deadline to ensure timely submission. Review of applications begins on May 5, 2026, and continues until the position is filled. Only shortlisted candidates will be notified. Interested candidates are encouraged to find out more about NUGSE at gse.nu.edu.kz and our Facebook page @nugse2014. Online interviews for shortlisted applicants will start after May 11, 2026. Informal enquiries about specific posts can be addressed to Mir Afzal Tajik (Vice-Dean for Academic Affairs) at afzal.mir@nu.edu.kz

Salary

Competitive

Posted

10 Mar 2026

Senior Teaching Fellow in the Center for Preparatory Studies

Nazarbayev University

Kazakhstan, Astana (ex Tselinograd)

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

Kazakhstan, Astana (ex Tselinograd)

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

Assistant / Associate Professor in Mechanical Engineering (Engineering Design)

Nazarbayev University

Kazakhstan, Astana (ex Tselinograd)

Nazarbayev University

Kazakhstan, Astana (ex Tselinograd)

The School of Engineering and Digital Sciences of Nazarbayev University is inviting outstanding candidate for an Assistant or Associate Professor in Mechanical Engineering Design within the Department of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering. The high demand from industry for our graduates has resulted in a substantial increase in the number of students enrolled in MAE programs. The department continues to grow and has developed a robust collaboration with the industry. An ideal candidate will deliver teaching and research related to the broad area of mechanical engineering design areas such as mechanical systems design, computer-aided engineering (CAE), design optimisation, computational and applied mechanics, and parametric geometrical modelling. The successful candidate will: Lead high-impact research in engineering design supported by research funding from industry and government. Develop strong industrial collaboration in mechanical engineering design. Teach undergraduate and postgraduate courses in mechanical engineering and engineering design. Supervise undergraduate and graduate students (MSc/PhD). Mentor early-career researchers to foster scholarly development and research productivity. Build cross-disciplinary research initiatives within the university and international. Contribute to departmental and university initiatives, participate in academic committees, and build partnerships with industry and academic institutions. Qualifications & Expertise PhD in Mechanical Engineering or a closely related discipline from a reputable university. A minimum of three (3) years of academic experience after the PhD. Outstanding applicants with exceptional research and academic records along with more years of experience may be considered for appointment at the Associate Professor level. Proven a sustained and successful track record of research excellence demonstrated by publications in internationally recognised top-tier (Q1) journals and attracting research funding. Experience supervising postgraduate researchers and leading externally funded research projects. Experience with FEA/CAE tools (ANSYS, Abaqus, COMSOL). Knowledge of GD&T, engineering drawings, and industry standards. Evidence of innovative teaching and curriculum development. Professional membership (e.g., IMechE, ASME, FHEA, SFHEA) is highly desirable. Excellent communication skills and English fluency are required. Additional information What we offer: Competitive salary and 2-course teaching load per semester Generous research time Research seed grants and other competitive research funding opportunities International health insurance for the appointee and dependents Expatriate benefits (rent-free housing, home travel (two per annum), assistance for relocation expenses including air fares for the appointee and dependents) Paid home leave of 56 days per annum. Initial appointment is on a 3-year renewable contract and subsequent appointments can be 5-year/3-year renewable subject to annual performance reviews. For informal discussion about the role, please contact Professor Essam Shehab, Head of Mechanical and Aerospace Department, email: essam.shehab@nu.edu.kz More details about Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering department can be found at: https://research.nu.edu.kz/en/organisations/department-of-mechanical-and-aerospace-engineering/ Deadline: Open until filled. Applications will be reviewed commencing 10 April 2026. Applications require completion of the online application form via the provided link, accompanied by a cover letter, CV and the contact details of three referees. Incomplete applications will not be considered for review.

Salary

Competitive

Posted

4 Mar 2026

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

Nazarbayev University

Kazakhstan, Astana (ex Tselinograd)

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