Division of Biomedical Sciences
Decoding Life – Advancing Health
At BioMed, we are building the future of predictive and programmable biology and medicine. Our mission is to decode the fundamental principles that govern living systems and transform this knowledge into technologies that improve human health. By integrating biology, engineering, artificial intelligence, data science, and biotechnology, we seek not only to understand life, but also to predict biological behavior, advance precision medicine, and ultimately engineer solutions to some of society’s most pressing health challenges. From molecules and cells to tissues, organs, and populations, we develop the scientific foundations and technological innovations that will enable the next generation of precision medicine, biotechnology, and bioengineering. Situated in Saudi Arabia – a living laboratory for healthcare transformation - at a time of unprecedented investment in healthcare, biotechnology, and digital transformation, BioMed is uniquely positioned to connect discovery with impact. Through partnerships spanning academia, healthcare systems, industry, and national initiatives, we combine world-class science with real-world implementation, creating opportunities to advance health in the Kingdom and contribute to a healthier future worldwide.
To this end, the Biomedical Sciences Division (BioMed) at KAUST brings together world-class faculty in science, engineering, and technology thus integrating expertise across biology, engineering, computation, artificial intelligence, and translational research, Through interdisciplinary research, advanced computational and digital tools, and strong partnerships across the healthcare ecosystem, BioMed connects discovery with real-world impact - supporting national priorities while contributing to global advances in health and disease.
BioMed is home to two complementary graduate programs—Bioengineering and Bioscience—each offering distinctive pathways for students seeking to advance knowledge at the frontiers of life sciences while contributing to solutions that improve lives and address global challenges. Together, these programs foster a collaborative ecosystem that connects molecular and cellular biology with engineering design, data science, biotechnology, and precision health.
Students benefit from close interaction with internationally recognized faculty, access to state-of-the-art research facilities, and opportunities to engage in transformative research spanning human health, synthetic biology, genomics, bioinformatics, advanced imaging, biomedical devices, biomaterials, artificial intelligence, and biotechnology. Through this interdisciplinary approach, BioMed prepares the next generation of scientific leaders, innovators, and entrepreneurs capable of translating discovery into real-world impact.
The division's research portfolio is strengthened by collaborations that extend beyond traditional disciplinary boundaries, connecting bioscientists and bioengineers with experts in computer science, electrical engineering, materials science, chemistry, applied mathematics, and data science. This convergence of expertise enables BioMed researchers to tackle complex biological questions and develop innovative solutions for healthcare, sustainability, and emerging biotechnology industries.
Whether exploring the fundamental mechanisms that govern life or engineering technologies that redefine what is possible in medicine and biotechnology, students in BioMed become part of a vibrant global research community dedicated to advancing scientific knowledge and creating lasting impact for the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and the world. BioMed will improve health in Saudi Arabia and beyond by harnessing cutting-edge science and technology to investigate, educate on, and translate discoveries that make people’s lives better.
Division Contact
Peter James Goadsby, Dean- peter.goadsby@kaust.edu.sa
Jesper Tegner, Associate Dean of students- jesper.tegner@kaust.edu.sa
Selena Franchini, Graduate Program Student Advisor-selena.franchini@kaust.edu.sa
BioMed Programs