Assistant Professor in Architecture - Postgraduate Focus (Dubai Campus)

Heriot-Watt University; Dubai; On-site; AED 120,000 - 150,000; Full time

Job summary

Heriot-Watt University is seeking an Assistant Professor in Architecture for its Dubai campus. The role involves leading postgraduate design studios, engaging in research, and contributing to curriculum development. Candidates should possess a postgraduate degree in Architecture and relevant teaching experience.

Qualifications

• Postgraduate degree in Architecture and PhD required.
• Teaching experience and professional experience essential.

Responsibilities

• Develop and lead postgraduate architectural design studios.
• Engage in scholarly activities and research contributions.
• Participate in programme planning and academic leadership.

Skills

Knowledge of digital design tools

Team leadership

Education

Postgraduate degree in Architecture

PhD or similar

Job description

Role: Assistant Professor in Architecture Postgraduate Focus

Grade: 8

School: School of Energy Geoscience Infrastructure and Society

FTE and working pattern: 1FTE Full time 35 hrs per week

Location: Dubai Campus

School Overview

Architecture was established as an undergraduate programme in Dubai in 2015 within the School of Energy Geoscience Infrastructure and Society. The School is a leader in multidisciplinary research and teaching in areas critical to economic development and societal equity.

Our Dubai campus offers programmes in civil engineering, architectural engineering, architecture, construction management, and quantity surveying. We focus on practical and laboratory teaching, with professional practice contact, ensuring high employability prospects for graduates.

The Architecture Programme

Heriot Watt University’s global identity is reflected in its Dubai-based Architecture programme, which offers a UK-recognized course with a global perspective. The curriculum emphasizes innovative, resilient architecture capable of addressing global issues like climate change, urban resilience, resource shortages, and sustainability, aligned with RIBA Part 1 criteria.

From September 2025, a Master of Architecture (RIBA Part 2) will be introduced. The programme benefits from diverse international staff and strong links with industry, fostering research and collaborative opportunities.

Position Overview

We are seeking to appoint an Assistant Professor in Architecture to expand our global academic team. The successful candidate will be based in Dubai and engage with our international team.

Key Responsibilities

Learning and Teaching

• Develop and lead postgraduate architectural design studios for the new Master of Architecture (RIBA Part 2) programme and contribute to the undergraduate RIBA Part 1 programme.
• Design and deliver curriculum, develop courses, and innovate teaching methods aligned with RIBA standards.
• Create learning materials, provide student feedback, and contribute to quality assurance and student support.
• Engage in curriculum development, student placements, internships, and assessment moderation.

Research and Knowledge Exchange

• Engage in scholarly activities, professional development, and research contributions.
• Exhibit work at exhibitions, publish student outputs, and participate in competitions.

Academic Management and Administration

• Participate in programme planning, admissions, marketing, and committee activities.
• Provide academic leadership in core areas of the programme.

Candidate Profile

Essential: Postgraduate degree in Architecture (RIBA/ARB/NAAB or equivalent), PhD or similar, professional experience, teaching experience, knowledge of digital design tools, and ability to lead a team.

Desirable: RIBA Part 3, higher education fellowship, professional practice experience, knowledge of UAE codes, innovative pedagogies.

About the University

Heriot Watt University, established in 1821, is renowned for quality education and research, with a strong international presence and campuses in the UK, Dubai, and elsewhere. Our values include Belong, Collaborate, Inspire, and Celebrate.

Applicants should submit a cover letter, CV, and portfolio via our online system. Successful candidates must complete degree attestations from UAE authorities within six months of appointment.