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

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.

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.

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 Interested candidates are encouraged to find out more about the Department of Biology and the School of Sciences and Humanities at our website  The strengths of other schools of the university can be found at  

Nazarbayev University offers an attractive benefits package, including:

• competitive compensation
• free housing
• air tickets to home country, twice per year
• corporate medical insurance, with global coverage
• relocation allowance
• educational allowance for children