Senior Postdoctoral Researcher (1FTE, FTC), Riyadh University of Arts Partnership (107-26)

The Royal College of Art is looking for a researcher to contribute to the development of a new urban design programme at Riyadh University of Arts (RUA), Saudi Arabia’s new flagship university for arts, design, and creative education.

The researcher will participate in an applied research and curriculum development project examining urbanisation, contemporary urban design practice, and the discourses informing architecture and planning in Saudi Arabia.

The researcher will work with, amongst others, academics, policymakers and cultural institutions, ensuring that the programme is informed by local knowledge, expertise, and practice.

We are looking for someone with a strong research profile and established knowledge of the architecture and urbanism of Saudi Arabia and the wider region, including their social, cultural, environmental, and institutional contexts. Candidates should have a PhD or comparable research experience in practice, as well as strong analytical and synthesis skills. Experience of higher education teaching, curriculum development, academic publishing would be an advantage.

This is an exciting and unique opportunity to help establish new approaches to urban design pedagogy and research at a major new institution with the ambition to lead design and arts practice in the region and beyond.

Please see Information pack for further details. 

Please note, the role may require occasional travel to Saudi Arabia, to support project delivery, stakeholder engagement, and  related activities.

Closing for applications: 11.59pm on Sunday 25 October 2026

Closing Date: 25 Oct 2026

Programme/Department: Research

Salary: £49,533 to £53,609 per annum
Full time and fixed term post to 31.8.2028