24 Research Development jobs in Saudi Arabia

Location

Riyadh, Saudi Arabia

Experience

Job Type

Recruitment

Job Description

Position: Research Scientist Level.

Job requirements: 2 to 10 years of relevant experience after PhD.

Principal Duties:

• Manages and leads the development and administration of basic Medical Research and Human Clinical Trials Research Project; Conduct research and clinical investigations and execute planned experiments.

• Makes independent decisions on routine issues and recommend scientific approaches and solutions; Assist in the periodic assessment of ongoing laboratory research studies.

• Assists in seeking a progressive growth of investigative work by submitting proposals for extramural funding of stimulating investigative studies by other medical and research staff members, and by appropriate promotional efforts of the academic programs.

• Evaluates scientific, medical diagnostics, pathologists' research applications received from members of the KAIMRC staff and for improving the quality of research proposals prior to submission to the research council for review. · Safeguards the safety guidelines when dealing with laboratory materials.

• Trains junior researchers, technologists and other staff on new experiments, platforms, equipment and technologies

• Promotes teamwork, communications and sharing of information between projects in the domain of expertise;

• Participates in long-term planning of research activities or in the field; assist in the development of the Monthly, Quarterly, and Annual Research Center reports.

• Maintains the Research Laboratories in the Research Center based on higher specialty.

• Performs other job related duties as required.

Required Specialties:

• Cancer vaccines and Cancer Immunotherapy: Candidates required with PhD or equivalent with scientific background in cancer research, Experimental immunology (flow cytometry, immune assays, cell culture, scRNA), T cell immunology (human or mouse models), CRISPR gene-engineering of immune cells, single cell analyses, T cell exhaustion, and T cell receptor engineering, cancer genetics.

• Gene therapy: Candidates required with PhD. or equivalent with scientific background in genetics, gene therapy, cell transduction, cloning, mRNA technology platform, delivery vehicles (viral vectors, LNPs) CRISPR technology, molecular biology, single-cell analytics and bioinformatics.

• Cellular Therapy: Candidates required with PhD. or PhD/MD or equivalent with scientific background in cell transduction, viral vector development, CAR-T Cell therapy approaches, molecular and cellular biology, GMP processes.

• Infectious Diseases: Candidates required with PhD. or equivalent with scientific background in virology, including molecular virology, vaccine development, BSL3 experience and bacteriology including antimicrobial resistance (AMR), bacterial genomics and bioinformatics

• Proteomics: Candidates required with PhD. or equivalent with scientific background in Quantitative proteomics, system biology, mass spectrometry, molecular biology or chemistry.

- Bioequivalence and Pharmaceutical Products Analysis: Candidates required with MSc or PhD. or equivalent with scientific background in Pharmaceutical product analysis/ quality control/ methods of analysis development, Pharmacokinetics- Pharmacodynamics (PK-PD), Bioequivalence studies, chemistry, mass spectrometry.

• Biomedical Engineering: Candidates required with PhD. or equivalent with scientific background in medical devices Prototyping, medical/diagnostic Product development,, Medical and diagnostic devices engineering.

• Nanomedicine: Candidates required with PhD. or equivalent with scientific background in Nanoparticles synthesis and characterization, Molecular sensors for diagnostics, drug delivery and chemistry.

• Bioinformatics, computational biology and Data Science: Candidates required with PhD. or equivalent with scientific background in bioinformatics, data science, drug discovery, whole genome sequencing, machine learning and artificial intelligence.

• Biostatistics: Candidates required with PhD. or equivalent with scientific background in biostatistics, Clinical Trials, Survival Analysis, Statistical Sampling, Statistical Genetics, and experimental Design.

• Population health: Candidates required with PhD. or equivalent with scientific background in popRegistry development, surveillance based research, epidemiology , cancer population health.

• Bioethics: Candidates with PhD. with strong interest and experience in bioethics and prior experience contributing to or managing institutional review boards, including strong analytical research capabilities and ability to prepare research and ethics review reports.

• Clinical Trials: Candidates with PhD/MD with prior experience conducting clinical trials and managing multi-site clinical trials at the international level. Very good understanding and ability to prepare and review clinical trials study plans, monitoring and submission to regulatory agencies.

Job Purpose

responsible for driving agricultural research, developing innovative farming practices, improving crop performance, and introducing sustainable, cost-effective solutions. This role ensures that research initiatives align with company objectives, industry standards, and regulatory requirements.

Responsibilities:

Research & Innovation

• Develop and lead R&D projects focused on improving crop yields, soil health, pest management, and farm productivity.
• Explore and implement new agricultural technologies (e.g., precision farming, irrigation systems, seed varieties).
• Design and execute field trials, pilot programs, and experimental studies.

Project Management

• Plan, manage, and oversee multiple R&D projects from conception to completion.
• Monitor project timelines, budgets, and resources.
• Analyze research data, draw conclusions, and prepare comprehensive reports.

Collaboration & Stakeholder Engagement

• Work closely with farm managers, agronomists, procurement, and sustainability teams.
• Liaise with universities, research institutions, and technology providers for knowledge exchange and partnerships.
• Provide technical guidance to farm teams and other internal stakeholders.

Health, Safety, & Environment

• Ensure compliance to all relevant safety and environmental management procedures and controls across all the QA department to guarantee employee safety, legislative compliance, delivery of high-quality products/services and a responsible environmental attitude
• Maintaining the financial health of the organization.

QUALIFICATIONS, EXPERIENCE & SKILLS

Academic and professional qualifications:

• Bachelor's or master's degree in agriculture science, Agronomy, Plant Science, Soil Science, or related fields.

Experience:

• 5+ years of experience in potato fields.
• Fully familiar with HACCP and GAP.

Skills:

• Able to communicate with all levels of management and peers within the organization.
• Providing leadership
• Building and maintaining relationships.
• The ability to prioritize work and tasks under pressure.
• Ability to handle conflict effectively.
• Ability to build, implement and direct quality assurance principles and maintain the quality of delivery.

Get to know us

At Shan Foods, we get it - food isn't just fuel, it's connection, culture, and convenience. As a global food brand, we're bringing real flavor to kitchens worldwide and making meals simpler, tastier, and more fun. We're more than just spices - we're a team of creators, learners, and doers. At Shan, you'll grow, evolve and help shape what the future of food looks & tastes like.

Shan Foods is a global equal opportunity employer, offering top of the line compensation & benefits, an inclusive working environment and avenues for growth. We believe in growing together and constantly learning from everyone around us. Our people are not only driving the business, they are all contributing towards the growth of the food industry worldwide.

Let's give you a quick sneak peek into the life of an R&D Executive

You will play a critical role in driving innovation, creating new products, improving existing products and ensuring the highest quality standards for our savory products portfolio, including including flavors & seasoning blends.

Locations

Sharjah & Makkah

Things you will be doing as an R&D Executive

• Develop and manage R&D activities for savory products, including ideation, formulation, development and optimization of flavors and seasoning blends
• Design and conduct experiments, sensory evaluations and consumer tests to evaluate the performance along with acceptability of new products and make data driven decisions
• Monitor and analyze product performance, customer feedback, and market trends to identify opportunities for product improvement and suggest modifications as necessary
• Collaborate with cross function teams including production, quality control, marketing, and sales to ensure smooth product development and launch processes
• Collaborate with external suppliers, vendors and research institutions to leverage their expertise, resources, and technologies for product development and innovation
• Stay updated with emerging technologies, ingredients and processing techniques related to snack seasoning and implement relevant advancements in R&D practices.
• Should be willing to travel with the sales teams and internationally for business development and trails.

What we are looking for in you?

• Bachelors degree in Food Science, Food Technology or related field
• Minimum 2 years experience in R&D with a focus on savory products in the food industry and food chains

Lead and manage the R&D function to drive innovation, oversee AI product development, and ensure alignment with the company's strategic goals. Foster a high-performance research culture and ensure the successful commercialization of AI solutions.

Key Responsibilities

• Strategic Leadership
• Develop and implement the R&D strategy in line with business objectives and the GCC's innovation vision.
• Identify and prioritize AI research areas with high commercial and societal impact.
• Project & Team Management:
• Lead, mentor, and grow a multidisciplinary team of AI researchers, data scientists, and engineers.
• Oversee all R&D projects, ensuring timely delivery, quality, and budget adherence.
• Innovation & Collaboration:
• Foster a culture of continuous innovation and learning.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams (product, engineering, marketing, business development).
• Build partnerships with universities, research centers, and industry bodies in the GCC.
• Compliance & Reporting:
• Ensure all R&D activities comply with local and international regulations, including data privacy and AI ethics.
• Prepare and present regular reports on R&D progress, risks, and outcomes to executive leadership.
• Technology & Market Awareness:
• Stay updated on global AI trends, emerging technologies, and competitor activities.
• Evaluate and integrate new tools, frameworks, and methodologies relevant to AI.
• Education:
• Master's or PhD in Computer Science, Artificial Intelligence, Data Science, Engineering, or a related field.
• Experience:
• +7 years in R&D roles, with at least 3 years in a managerial or team lead capacity.
• Proven track record in AI/ML research, product development, or deployment.
• Experience in the GCC or emerging markets is a strong plus.
• Technical Skills:
• Deep understanding of AI/ML algorithms, data engineering, and cloud platforms.
• Familiarity with AI ethics, data privacy, and regulatory frameworks in the GCC.
• Experience with project management tools and agile methodologies.
• Leadership & Soft Skills:
• Strong leadership, team-building, and mentoring abilities.
• Excellent communication and stakeholder management skills.
• Strategic thinker with strong problem-solving and decision-making capabilities.
• Ability to work in a multicultural, fast-paced startup environment.

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: ﷼5, ﷼7,500.00 per month

Responsibilities:

1- Design prototypes and feasibility models for proof-of-concept testing.

2- Design and document for prototypes through production-released products.

3- Develop and improve manufacturing processes to pilot production level

4- Support efforts to verify and validate and qualify new product designs

5- Help prepare project plans, specifications, and schedules for new product development.

6- Prepare and manage Test Protocols, Reports and lab notebooks.

7- Identify and interact with vendors to obtain engineering materials, processes, and equipment.

8- Perform routine analysis of test results in relation to design specifications and test objectives.

9- Assist the Engineering Team in maintaining an adequate inventory of engineering and prototype materials.

10- Work closely with other engineers, technicians, clients, contract manufacturers, assemblers, or other support personnel to assist in debugging and optimizing system performance.

11- Assist in the preparation and review of patent applications.

12- Support manufacturing of new and existing products.

Skills:

Technical Expertise.

Data Analysis.

Research Methodology.

Communication Skills.

Empathy & Active Listening.

Rapport-Building.

Problem-Solving & Technical Skills.

product knowledge.

Computer skills.

Job Announcement

We are looking for:

R&D Specialist – Food Products

Location: Sudair

Employment Type: Full-time

Department: Research & Development (R&D)

Key Responsibilities:

• Develop new food products in line with market needs and trends.
• Improve existing products in terms of quality, taste, nutritional value, and cost.
• Conduct sensory and technical testing and document results.
• Assist in designing and developing product specifications.
• Collaborate with quality, production, and sales teams to ensure successful product launches.
• Stay updated on scientific and technical developments in the food industry.

Qualifications & Requirements:

• Minimum of 2 years of hands-on experience in food product development.
• Solid knowledge of food processing techniques, ingredients, and technical specifications.
• Strong analytical, documentation, and teamwork skills.
• Proficient in MS Office; experience with R&D or ERP systems is a plus.
• Good command of English (written and spoken).

Eligibility:

• Saudi nationals or non-Saudis with transferable Iqama.

How to Apply:

Interested candidates are invited to send their CVs to:

Please mention "R&D Specialist – Food Products" in the email subject line

R&D department, we are looking for senior skin care & hair care formulator

The best candidates have studied pharmacist, chemist or scientific discipline in general and has gained at least 5 years of experience in role. Preferably he or she worked in companies developing own cosmetic formulations and have big experience in (hair care as shampoo, conditioner, serum, cream, henna, perfumes, straightener, etc.)

and skin care products as (moisturizing cream, skin care creams, sun block, serums, shower gel, soaps, cleansers, acne formulations, scrubs, masks, etc.)

Duties and responsibilities:

1- Develop new formulations, shade matching and reformulate existing products under management direction.

2-Resposible for the maintenance of accuracy of information in database and active participation in the resolution of formula issues.

3-Excellent project management skills with the ability to effectively prioritize.

4-Conduct stability testing (tracking stability, texture, PH, viscosity, etc.)

5-Create flow chart to any formula and summarize data for review at each test period.

6-Submit samples to marketing for new formula and new shades development, follow up and obtain approvals.

7-Prepare PTI for all approved formulations including formula procedure, specification sheet and stability report.

8-Attend manufacturing trial runs of products, work with technical team.

9- Identify, analyze and resolve problems and issues with quality assurance and control during product development process.

10- Coordinate QC activities, ensuring quality control in accordance with the requirements of standard operating procedures (SOPs), protocols and product development specification documents

Role Description

This is a full-time on-site role for a Research and Development Specialist, located in Al Kharj. The Specialist will be responsible for conducting research activities, handling laboratory tasks, and developing new pharmaceutical formulations. The role will also involve analyzing data, preparing reports, and collaborating with cross-functional teams. Day-to-day tasks include designing experiments, conducting tests, ensuring compliance with safety standards, and contributing to the innovation process within the company.

Qualifications

• Strong Research and Development (R&D) skills
• Proficiency in Analytical Skills and Laboratory Skills
• Effective Communication skills
• Ability to conduct thorough Research
• Bachelor's or Master's degree in Chemistry, Pharmacy, or a related field
• Knowledge of regulatory requirements and compliance
• Experience in the pharmaceutical industry is a plus

Problem-solving skills and attention to detail

نوع الوظيفة: دوام كامل, عقد, لحديثي التخرج

Advice on the conduction of cutting-edge research and development projects, initiatives, and activities, in order to achieve the research and development priorities in the kingdom through advancing innovative products and solutions.

Job Specific Accountabilities:

Research Portfolio and Applied Research

• Advice the strategic research portfolio, through identifying Research and Development projects in alignment with Research and Development priorities and national needs.
• Supervise research projects within Research and Development to ensure the successful execution of projects, adherence to budgets and timelines, and the translation of research findings into practical solutions that address critical Research and Development challenges.
• Supervise advisory and scientific consultation projects to the public and private sectors, researchers, and interested parties within the Research and Development Sector to address their specific needs and goals.

Scientific Publication

• Advice the strategic development and publication of high-impact scientific content like research papers, reports, and experiments to contribute to the advancement of knowledge in Research and Development.
• Advice the development of technical reports and scientific content in Research and Development (e.g., publication, research papers, experiments, etc.).
• Advice the effective documentation, communication, and dissemination of scientific content through a structured governance framework to enhance the Research and Development sector visibility and reputation in the scientific community, and foster collaborations with external stakeholders.

Prototyping, Technology Development and Commercialization

• Advice on the testing and validation of research outcomes through prototyping, technical assessments, and production to assess the effectiveness and practicality of the innovation in solving identified problems.
• Supervise the evaluation of the market viability and potential commercial benefits of research and outputs from the Institutes in coordination with the Commercialization and Technology Transfer function.
• Advice on the development of strategies for the exploitation and commercialization of research outputs in coordination with the Commercialization and Technology Transfer function.

National Cadre Development

• Advice on the selection and identification of national talent in the Research and Development Sector to build and retain a sustainable and skilled workforce.
• Advice on the design and implementation of learning and development initiatives and programs (e.g., training needs, curriculum, training materials, instructional methods, etc.) to nurture local talent in the field.

Research Infrastructure Support

• Supervise the strategies to provide researchers with access to technology, advanced devices, lab equipment, and research infrastructure to accommodate future growth and evolving research needs within the Research and Development Sector.
• Advice the optimal design of the infrastructure to be scalable and adaptable and to ensure they remain in optimal working condition.

Representation in Events and Ceremonies

• Serve as the organization's official advisor at R&D events, such as conferences, awards ceremonies, and industry gatherings, and give speeches and presentations on behalf of the organization.
• Build and maintain relationships with key stakeholders in the research and innovation ecosystem, including government officials, business leaders, and potential donors to identify and nurture collaboration opportunities.
• Work with cross-functional teams to advise on planning and execution of research and innovation related events, including logistics, catering, entertainment, and speaker arrangements.
• Work with cross-functional teams to advise on development and implementation of communication plans for events, including press releases, social media outreach, and media interviews.

Qualification and Experience:

• Bachelor's degree and 10+ years of experience in Science, Engineering, Technology, or a relevant field, or
• Master's degree and 8+ years of experience in Science, Engineering, Technology, or a relevant field, or
• PhD degree and 6+ years of experience in Science, Engineering, Technology, or a relevant field.

Physical Science and Engineering Division

Organisation/Company KAUST Department Physical Science and Engineering Division Research Field Geosciences » Other Researcher Profile First Stage Researcher (R1) Recognised Researcher (R2) Established Researcher (R3) Positions Postdoc Positions Country Saudi Arabia Application Deadline 31 May 2026 - 23:59 (Asia/Riyadh) Type of Contract Temporary Job Status Full-time Hours Per Week 40 Offer Starting Date 1 Jun 2025 Is the job funded through the EU Research Framework Programme? Not funded by a EU programme Is the Job related to staff position within a Research Infrastructure? No

Professor Max Frenzel is currently recruiting for a 2-year Post-doc / Research Scientist position (extendable) to join the new Mineral Exploration and Exploitation Group at KAUST. The focus of the position will be on the development and implementation of new workflows for the mineralogical and geochemical characterization of ore materials, using combined µXRF-mapping, SEM-based automated mineralogy, and laser ablation ICP-MS, potentially complemented by powder X-ray diffraction. These workflows will then be applied to selected Saudi Arabian ore deposits to understand their genesis and exploration potential. In addition, the generated data can be used to optimize mineral extraction processes from existing mines within a geometallurgical framework.

The position will mostly focus on the development of measurement protocols and data integration methods for the different data types. In terms of applications, the candidate will be free to choose their own case study(s). Additionally, close collaboration with other group members is expected for the application of the developed workflows.

Saudi Arabia is a fast-developing country offering unparalleled opportunities in mineral resources and other geoscience-related fields. In particular, the recent opening of Saudi Arabia for international exploration companies has led to a substantial increase of activity in the mineral exploration sector. Given the great geological potential of Saudi Arabia for different types of mineral deposits, it is probably the country with the most exciting mineral exploration opportunities right now.

• Detailed experience in the use of at least one of the following analytical techniques for material characterization: X-ray spectroscopy, scanning electron microscopy, and/or laser-ablation ICP-MS is expected
• Willingness to master the other techniques required for the position.
• Excellent oral and written communication skills in English, as evidenced by a strong publication and conference presentation record.
• Experience in coding, particularly in python or R for data science and machine learning applications, are desirable.
• Willingness to participate in field work and sample collection is also desirable.
• A completed PhD is sufficient for appointment as a postdoctoral researcher. For appointment as a research scientist, additional research experience of at least 2 years is required in the relevant areas highlighted above.

• English (C1 / IELTS 7.0 equivalent or better)

Research Field GeosciencesChemistryEngineering » Materials engineering Years of Research Experience None

The position will include a competitive salary based on the candidate’s qualifications and experience; benefits include medical and dental insurance, free housing on the KAUST campus, an annual travel allowance, 30 paid vacation days, and other generous benefits. KAUST is a vibrant and international community, with many opportunities for social, sporting, and learning activities outside of work.

The successful applicant will be associated with the new Mineral Exploration and Exploitation Group at KAUST. The group will commence work in August 2025. Its main aim is to contribute to the development of mineral resources in Saudi Arabia by developing innovative approaches to mineral exploration, mining, and mineral processing. The working group will initially consist of 1 PhD student and 2 MSc students, but is projected to grow to 2 postdocs (incl. this positions), 3 PhD students, and a variable number of MSc students. In addition, KAUST provides a highly collaborative research environment, and active engagement of the holder of the position in collaborative activities within and outside of the research group will be strongly encouraged and supported.

Eligibility criteria

Applicants must hold a PhD degree in a relevant discipline, as listed above, and must demonstrate fluency in English in writing, speaking and listening at the indicated level.

Selection process

Received applications will be reviewed and suitable candidates will be interviewed on a rolling basis, starting from June 1, 2025.