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Nazarbayev University

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Astana City, Kazakhstan
401–500th in World University Rankings 2026
Nazarbayev University
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Working, teaching and research at Nazarbayev University

Information about Nazarbayev University for Academics

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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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Chair of the Department of Biology, School of Sciences and Humanities

NAZARBAYEV UNIVERSITY

Nazarbayev University

Kazakhstan, Astana (ex Tselinograd)

institution

Nazarbayev University

Kazakhstan, Astana (ex Tselinograd)


The Department of Biology in the School of Sciences and Humanities at Nazarbayev University (Astana, Kazakhstan) is seeking a full-time Chair to lead the Department in developing and implementing a comprehensive research vision and teaching excellence. The Chair will be responsible for supporting the Department’s ongoing efforts to increase research outcomes, strengthen the existing degree programs, and improve its international reputation. The Chair will provide leadership toward achieving exemplary teaching, research and service. The Department of Biology has a strong undergraduate program, a M.Sc. in Biological Sciences, and an earned Ph.D. program. Separate research laboratories, comprehensive and modern core facilities, and a new vivarium building that was opened in 2024 further support the Department’s strengths in biomedicine and cell biology. The Chair will seek synergetic and interdisciplinary teaching and research collaborations with other departments and schools within the university, as well as local and international universities. The Chair will maintain a teaching and research program commensurate with current University strengths and will advance the Biology Department’s role within the School of Sciences and Humanities, as well as within Nazarbayev University community. Successful candidates should hold a doctorate degree (Ph.D.) in a biology-related discipline, and academic experience at the Full Professor rank with demonstrated excellence in research, teaching, service, and leadership. Prior experience in administration is desirable. As Chair of the Department, the successful candidate will serve on the School’s Executive Committee and represent the interests of the Department in various academic activities of the School. The Chair is also expected to maintain her/his own research activities. Nazarbayev University was launched in 2010 as a premier national and regional research university, partnering with some of the most internationally recognized universities in higher education, and is ranked in the top 30% of the research universities listed in the 2024 THE University Ranking after a mere 13 years of existence. University admission is highly competitive, and the student body is selected from the top high schools throughout the country and region, including winners of prestigious international Science and Biology Olympiads. The best undergraduate students pursue graduate studies at universities ranked in the top 10 in the world. The university is in Astana, the capital of Kazakhstan, situated at the crossroads of Central Asia. The university campus is in the heart of the new and ultra-modern left-bank region of this multicultural city. Incoming faculty enjoy a cosmopolitan living experience, interwoven with traditional cultural influences in food and entertainment. The social life offers a rich and vibrant atmosphere with restaurants, theatre, music, opera, museums, modern and traditional bazaar shopping, professional and amateur sports, outdoor recreation, and much more. Nazarbayev University offers an attractive benefits package, including: competitive compensation free housing (based on rank and family size) air tickets to home country, twice per year corporate medical insurance, with global coverage relocation allowance educational allowance for children Review of applications will start immediately and will continue until the position is filled. Applicants should submit a cover letter explaining their qualifications and vision for the department, a detailed CV including a list of publications, the funding track record, and research and teaching statements via https://smrtr.io/sG_FX. Interested candidates are encouraged to find out more about the Department of Biology and the School of Sciences and Humanities at our website http://www.ssh.nu.edu.kz./ The strengths of other schools of the university can be found at https://nu.edu.kz/en

Salary

Competitive compensation

Posted

4 Feb 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

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

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

Vice-Dean for Academic Affairs, School of Sciences and Humanities

NAZARBAYEV UNIVERSITY

Nazarbayev University

Kazakhstan, Astana (ex Tselinograd)

institution

Nazarbayev University

Kazakhstan, Astana (ex Tselinograd)


Nazarbayev 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. The role of the Vice-Dean for Academic Affairs will be to enhance teaching and academic quality in the School, adapting our existing programs to the new technologies, such as AI. The Vice-Dean for Academic Affairs is responsible for promoting, supporting and facilitating the School's teaching and learning activities, and leading the development and implementation of the School's Teaching and Learning Strategy. Main Duties and Responsibilities Lead on the development and implementation of the School's Teaching and Learning Strategy, in consultation with the Dean and the University. Participate in the strategic management of the School as a member of the School Management Committee, attending its regular meetings. The Vice-Dean for Academic Affairs is responsible for managing existing academic programs and proposing and designing new ones. Oversee the development, management and regular review of the School's taught academic programmes. Chair the School’s Teaching and Learning Committee. Be responsible for admissions to the School's academic programmes, including the achievement of student recruitment targets, the management of the admissions process, and serving as Chair of the School's Admissions Committee. Have overall responsibility for the scheduling of SSH classes and registration of students into those classes, in consultation with departments. Be responsible for all aspects of the assurance of quality within the School, in accordance with the School's Quality Assurance Framework, and for the external accreditation of its academic programmes. Represent SSH on the University-level Learning and Teaching committee and the Academic Quality committee. Foster teaching collaboration with the other Schools of the University. Advise the School and the University on teaching and learning infrastructure and equipment requirements. Work with the Office of the Provost on program design, review and implementation. Promote the School’s teaching and learning objectives and activities to external audiences and to develop and maintain a network of professional relationships with universities in Kazakhstan, international universities, government, business and industry. Represent the School at student recruitment activities and events. Participate in the appointment and appraisal of academic and other School staff. Deputize for the Dean, internally and externally, on teaching and learning issues. Represent the School on relevant University committees. Contribute to the delivery of the School's undergraduate and graduate teaching programs. Undertake a program of research in a relevant discipline. Follow and promote University policies, including equal opportunities policies. Maintain and promote an awareness and observation of fire and health and safety regulations. Carry out any other duties commensurate with the grade, purpose and spirit of the post. This job description reflects the present requirements of the post and, as duties and responsibilities develop, the job description will be reviewed and be subject to amendment in consultation with the post holder. 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 academic affairs 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

24 Dec 2025

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Research

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Waqar Ahmad, president of Nazarbayev University
THE Connect podcast: Nazarbayev University’s rise in global university rankings
Nazarbayev University may be young, but its impact on the higher education landscape has been significant

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