The goal of becoming a world-class university, able to contribute to the global-research
enterprise, is a motivating factor behind KAUST's strategic plan.
KAUST's focus on its research agenda allows the University to provide an environment
in which scientists and engineers are free to focus on their work.
Unlike many primarily undergraduate universities, KAUST will not have a two-tier
faculty. All faculty will be of the highest caliber and able to formulate value-added
research projects; or will have unique background experience – as teachers or in
private industry – that supports KAUST's mission as a
21st century University.
A driving factor of KAUST's research agenda is to accelerate scientific discovery
and technological innovation. The corresponding strategy in terms of organizational
development involves flexible funding and outreach to potential partner institutions,
and targeted investments in physical and intellectual infrastructure to stimulate
collaboration with other research universities and the private sector.
KAUST research programs currently under way or in the planning phases include: