Division of Biological and Environmental Science and Engineering (BESE)
Driven by Discovery - Identified by Impact
The Biological and Environmental Sciences and Engineering (BESE) Division provides a unique opportunity to unite technology with the life sciences, to promote engineering-inspired biology.
BESE's mission is to create an enabling platform and intellectual space for knowledge and advanced technologies through research that is aligned with KAUST's four thrusts (food, energy, water, and the environment). Two strategic research themes that allow for a natural alignment with these thrusts are: Adaptive Biology and Environmental Systems.
To accomplish this mission, the Division aims to study the basic mechanisms of how organisms and systems adapt to the environment, and to develop interdisciplinary science and engineering approaches for environmental quality management.
Research in the Division is organized around five focal areas: 1) genomics, 2) epigenetics, 3) imaging and structural biology, 4) functional biology and 5) environmental systems. Education is provided through five programs: 1) Bioscience, 2) Marine Science, 3) Environmental Science, 4) Plant Science and 5) Bioengineering.
We are committed to cutting-edge research to address many of the global challenges of the world today and have put in place the necessary environment for collaborative interdisciplinary research to flourish. In addition, our state-of-the-art facilities and resources, including some of the most advanced equipment in the world for genomics, proteomics, microscopy, nanofabrication and nuclear magnetic resonance studies, further provide our Faculty the capability to accomplish high-impact research. The Division has built a strong reputation locally and globally with its expertise in marine exploration and conservation, desalination and water treatment, desert agriculture, bio-innovation for health and wellness, and nature-based solutions for climate and livability challenges.
KAUST is a place where adventurous and imaginative individuals engage in a journey of intellectual and cultural discovery. Our current Faculty and student body represents 72 nations. In the spirit of diversification, the Division encourages multidisciplinary study and research programs.
Division Contacts
Iain Young, Dean- iain.young@kaust.edu.sa
Michael Berumen, Associate Dean- michael.berumen@kaust.edu.sa
BESE Programs