STUDY Plant Science AT KAUST

 

The Plant Science program provides fundamental and applied research while meeting the training needs of the Kingdom’s Vision 2030 ambitions. The program strives to lead the development of a Laboratory for Greener Future Living in the KSA and the world by strengthening fundamental and applied research, promoting impact in line with national initiatives and contributing to the Saudi “Human Capability Development” through education. 

WHY JOIN US?

Collaborative and Supportive Community:
The program offers a collaborative research and teaching environment. Students can select from a wide range of courses and engage in diverse research activities. 
The Plant Science program at KAUST promotes interdisciplinary research and education, covering genetics, genomics, cell biology, stress biology, biochemistry, biotechnology, and engineering. 
Plant science is increasingly important for Saudi Arabia. The Kingdom requires expertise and talent in sustainable food production, including green biotechnology, plant breeding, genomics, plant-microbe interactions, agricultural engineering, and plant physiology, as well as land restoration and technology-driven agroecosystems. These goals align with Vision 2030 and the RDIA pillars for sustainable environment, essential needs, health and wellness, and future economies. 

Join KAUST Plant Science and become part of a dynamic program where innovation, collaboration and discovery drive the future of Plant Science.

ACADEMIC OVERVIEW

PLANT SCIENCE PROGRAM

 

The Plant Science program focuses on understanding plant growth and function under challenging environmental conditions such as those found in Saudi Arabia. The program studies the fundamental biology of plants at various levels, including genomics, cell biology, developmental biology, stress biology, plant physiology, proteomics and metabolomics. It also explores plant interactions with their environment, both abiotic (heat, salt, drought) and biotic (pathogens, symbionts). This knowledge aims to develop plants with enhanced tolerance to environmental stresses and support sustainable agriculture in arid regions. 

 

Plant Science MASTER'S DEGREE PROGRAM

Program Areas

  • Biology of Plants (genomics, cell biology, developmental biology, stress biology, proteomics, metabolomics
  • Biological and Environmental Stressors
  • Sustainable Agriculture systems

Mandatory Courses

  • 4 Core Courses
  • 2-4 Electives
  • Graduate Seminar
  • Courses offered include (but not limited to) Molecular Microbiology, Biology and Genetics, Plant Physiology and Adaptions, etc. 

Lab Experience

  • 10 week lab rotation
  • Thesis and Non-thesis options

Duration of Study

  • 1.5 to 2 years
  • 3 x 15-week semesters and one Summer for Non-thesis
  • 4 x 15-week semesters and one Summer for Thesis

Plant Science PHD DEGREE PROGRAM

Program Areas

  • Biology of Plants (genomics, cell biology, developmental biology, stress biology, proteomics, metabolomics
  • Biological and Environmental Stressors
  • Sustainable Agriculture systems

Mandatory Courses

  • 2 PhD-level Electives
  • Graduate Seminar
  • PhD courses can be taken from any program

Lab Experience

  • Doctoral Dissertation Research with your PI
  • Traveling Scholar for external collaboration

Duration of Study

  • 2.5 – 4 years
  • Maximum of 8 x 15-week semesters and 4 Summers

The information provided above is for general reference only. For detailed and current degree requirements, please refer to the Program Guide.

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PROGRAM GUIDE

Visit the KAUST Program Guide for detailed information about our graduate degree options.  The Program Guide provides prospective and current students with comprehensive information on various aspects of the program.

Within the guide, you will find detailed information on program course and credit requirements, placement tests, Ph.D. proposals, dissertation process guidance and the academic year structure.

The Program Guide will serve as your roadmap to successfully navigate your academic journey at KAUST and will allow you to make informed decisions about your studies.

Research

In BESE, we tackle the world’s most critical environmental and biological challenges by fostering interdisciplinary collaboration and leveraging advanced technologies to enhance ecosystem resilience, secure food and water, and advance human health.

Explore Our Research

Meet Our
Plant Science
Faculty

Explore the experts advancing research and innovation in plant science at KAUST.

Our Faculty