Director | Center Arab Studies and Islamic Civilizations; CASIC

Role Overview

The Center for Arab Studies and Islamic Civilizations (CASIC) at the American University of Sharjah (AUS) seeks a full‑time Faculty Director who will provide academic leadership and shape the strategic direction of CASIC and its affiliated UNESCO Chair in Arabic Language, AI, and Digital Heritage.

• Serve as Co‑Chair of the UNESCO Chair and lead interdisciplinary research, education, and outreach initiatives.
• Develop and implement CASIC’s long‑term strategy, establish clear priorities, and foster a culture of innovation and collaboration.
• Build and expand research programs that combine traditional Arab and Islamic scholarship with contemporary methods relevant to UAE society and the wider Arab world.
• Formulate and strengthen strategic partnerships with local and international institutions and researchers.
• Oversee graduate student research, postdoctoral fellowships, and visiting scholars, contributing to talent development.
• Disseminate knowledge through publications, conferences, and public outreach.

• PhD in Arabic studies, Islamic civilization, or a closely related field at the time of appointment.
• Excellent record of academic and research leadership, with demonstrated experience in higher education.
• Prepared to relocate to the UAE by December 2026
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• Proficiency in Islamicate languages desirable.
• Significant experience in an American‑model higher‑education system preferred.

Build CASIC into a globally recognized hub for the study of Arab and Islamic civilizations, strengthen AUS’s research profile, and promote interdisciplinary research, education, and outreach at the intersection of Arabic language studies, artificial intelligence, and digital heritage preservation.