KAUST — Life Sciences and Bioengineering

Students develop skills relevant to molecular medicine, biotechnology, biomanufacturing, genomics, medical devices, and health data. Its emphasis on research translation, AI, entrepreneurship and innovation prepares graduates to contribute to universities, research institutes, biotechnology companies, healthcare technology firms, and emerging ventures. Biomedical questions increasingly require expertise across disciplines. The curriculum integrates molecular and cellular biology with engineering design, stem cells, materials, bioinformatics, statistics, and artificial intelligence. Students can develop research projects that connect experimental and computational approaches, work with academic advisors, and choose electives across relevant fields, subject to program rules and approval. Students learn from researchers working across molecular biology, engineered biological systems, genomics, imaging, biosensors, bioprocessing, and computational methods. Coursework combines scientific foundations with laboratory applications and analytical tools. Research-led training provides opportunities to engage with contemporary techniques and problems in the life sciences and bioengineering. All students complete common core courses and select one of three concentrations: Cell and Molecular Biology, Engineering Biology, or Computational Biology and AI. Concentration courses, directed research, electives, and an optional summer internship allow students to develop a focused profile. Eligible students may also apply for an additional thesis pathway, extending the degree with supervised thesis research. The program emphasizes collaborative research, multidisciplinary teamwork, clear scientific communication, and responsible innovation. Graduate seminars bring students into conversation with current research, while academic advisors and program staff support pl