Guided by Discovery
Identified by Impact
Biological and Environmental
Science and Engineering
(BESE) Division
We are dedicated to advancing the understanding and management of marine, terrestrial, and human biology to ensure food, water, and soil security within healthy communities.
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We offer master’s and Ph.D. degrees in science and engineering.
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Latest Features
Explore our featured campaigns showcasing the bold ideas and impactful solutions driving BESE's mission.
14 October, 2025
Professor Petra Marhava joins BESE as an assistant professor in Plant Science
At KAUST, Marhava will lead innovative projects investigating how plants cope with environmental challenges, particularly temperature extremes and drought stress.
12 October, 2025
Cancer’s hidden sugar code opens diagnostic opportunities
How a small set of glycan genes could help detect and classify tumors.
12 October, 2025
Professor Himanshu Mishra becomes a Fellow of the Royal Society of Chemistry
07 October, 2025
Professor Peter Marhavy joins BESE to advance research on plant resilience
His lab investigates how plants detect and respond to stress within seconds of damage, focusing on root signaling and interactions with the surrounding microbial environment. This research contributes to BESE’s efforts in plant resilience and sustainable agriculture.
02 October, 2025
Healing the land to feed the future
KAUST scientists use CarboSoil biochar and native biocrusts to revive arid lands, enriching soil, capturing carbon, and curbing erosion to help plants flourish.
03
Dec 2025
01
Dec 2025
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Join world-class research on the shores of the Red Sea
In BESE, we advance scientific discovery and innovation through interdisciplinary collaboration, addressing global challenges with impactful research. Join us in shaping a sustainable future through excellence in science and technology.