10 Research Leadership Positions jobs in Saudi Arabia

Lucidya is seeking an experienced AI Research Lead to spearhead our research initiatives and drive innovation in artificial intelligence. In this role, you will lead a team of AI researchers and data scientists, focusing on developing state-of-the-art machine learning models and algorithms that will enhance our products and services. Your expertise will guide the strategic direction of AI research and ensure alignment with business goals.

As an AI Research Lead, you will be responsible for designing and executing research projects, publishing findings in prestigious conferences and journals, and collaborating with cross-functional teams to implement AI solutions in real-world applications. You will play a critical role in fostering a culture of experimentation and continuous learning within the organization.

• Lead and manage AI research projects from conception through deployment, ensuring high-quality outcomes.
• Stay abreast of the latest advancements in AI and machine learning, incorporating cutting-edge techniques into research.
• Mentor junior researchers and promote knowledge sharing within the team.
• Collaborate with product teams to identify opportunities for AI integration and drive product innovation.
• Publish high-impact research papers and presentations at leading conferences.
• Build strong partnerships with academic institutions and industry leaders to foster collaboration.
• Develop frameworks for evaluating and validating AI models in real-world scenarios.

• Education:
• A PhD in Computer Science, Artificial Intelligence, Machine Learning, or a related field.
• Experience:
• 5+ years of experience in AI research, with a proven track record of leading research projects.
• Experience in developing and deploying machine learning models in production environments.
• Familiarity with various AI/machine learning libraries and frameworks (e.g., TensorFlow, PyTorch, Scikit-learn).
• Proven ability to publish research findings at prominent conferences and journals.
• Technical Skills:
• Strong programming skills in Python and experience with data manipulation and statistical analysis.
• Solid understanding of AI concepts, algorithms, and best practices.
• Familiarity with big data technologies such as Hadoop or Spark is a plus.
• Soft Skills:
• Excellent communication skills, both written and verbal, for presenting research findings.
• Strong leadership and mentoring abilities.
• Ability to work collaboratively in a team-oriented environment.
• Other:
• Willingness to travel for collaboration with research partners and conferences.

This is more than just an engineering role—it’s an opportunity to shape the infrastructure and technical future of Lucidya . You’ll play a key part in scaling our platform, building a strong engineering culture, and delivering technology that empowers companies across the region and beyond.

We offer Employee Stock Option Plans (ESOP) to give you ownership in the company’s success, along with performance-based bonuses to reward your impact and dedication. As part of a fast-growing team, you’ll have the autonomy to lead, innovate, and grow—both personally and professionally.

Lucidya is seeking an experienced AI Research Lead to spearhead our research initiatives and drive innovation in artificial intelligence. In this role, you will lead a team of AI researchers and data scientists, focusing on developing state-of-the-art machine learning models and algorithms that will enhance our products and services. Your expertise will guide the strategic direction of AI research and ensure alignment with business goals.

As an AI Research Lead, you will be responsible for designing and executing research projects, publishing findings in prestigious conferences and journals, and collaborating with cross-functional teams to implement AI solutions in real-world applications. You will play a critical role in fostering a culture of experimentation and continuous learning within the organization.

• Lead and manage AI research projects from conception through deployment, ensuring high-quality outcomes.
• Stay abreast of the latest advancements in AI and machine learning, incorporating cutting-edge techniques into research.
• Mentor junior researchers and promote knowledge sharing within the team.
• Collaborate with product teams to identify opportunities for AI integration and drive product innovation.
• Publish high-impact research papers and presentations at leading conferences.
• Build strong partnerships with academic institutions and industry leaders to foster collaboration.
• Develop frameworks for evaluating and validating AI models in real-world scenarios.

• Education:

• Masters or PhD in Computer Science, Artificial Intelligence, Machine Learning, or a related field.

• Experience:

• 5+ years in AI research, leading projects from concept to deployment.

• Strong background in developing and implementing ML models in production.
• Proficient in TensorFlow, PyTorch, and Scikit-learn.
• Published work in top AI conferences and journals.

• Experienced in writing and securing research proposals.

• Technical Skills:

• Strong programming skills in Python and experience with data manipulation and statistical analysis.

• Solid understanding of AI concepts, algorithms, and best practices.

• Familiarity with big data technologies such as Hadoop or Spark is a plus.

• Soft Skills:

• Excellent communication skills, both written and verbal, for presenting research findings.

• Strong leadership and mentoring abilities.

• Ability to work collaboratively in a team-oriented environment.

• Other:

• Willingness to travel for collaboration with research partners and conferences.

This is more than just an engineering role—it's an opportunity to shape the infrastructure and technical future of Lucidya. You'll play a key part in scaling our platform, building a strong engineering culture, and delivering technology that empowers companies across the region and beyond.

We offer Employee Stock Option Plans (ESOP) to give you ownership in the company's success, along with performance-based bonuses to reward your impact and dedication. As part of a fast-growing team, you'll have the autonomy to lead, innovate, and grow—both personally and professionally.

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.

Overview

This role combines the accountability of a clinical research manager and certain elements of a GCTO country lead role. Holders of this position are accountable for the performance and compliance for assigned protocols in a country in compliance with ICH/GCP and country regulations, company policies and procedures, quality standards and adverse event reporting requirements internally and externally. It includes leadership to a country, liaising with local management, participating in local medical governance, and providing oversight for the GCTO team in the country across phases I/II through III/IV, including potential line management of GCTO staff where required.

CRM component (minimum ~50% of time related to projects; defined by need):

• Point of Contact (POC) for assigned protocols between Country Operations (CO) and the clinical trial team (CTT) or ROC where applicable.
• Proactively drives and tracks execution and performance of deliverables, timelines and results to meet country commitments for assigned protocols. Collaborates with local CO roles. Forecasts country resource needs. Manages contracts and budgets as delegated to serve local business needs.
• Responsible for quality and compliance in assigned protocols in country, in close collaboration with CRAs and local study teams. Reviews Monitoring Visit Reports and escalates performance issues and training needs to the CRA manager and/or vendors and internal management as needed.
• Collaborates with functional outsourcing vendors, investigators and other external partners. Oversees country and site validations, site selection and recruitment in assigned protocols. Provides clinical trial education to sites. Acts as country POC for programmatically outsourced trials for assigned protocols.
• Collaborates with local PV, Regulatory, GMA/GHH to align on key decisions in studies. Plays a significant role in conducting studies and developing the pipeline while maintaining local regulatory and compliance requirements. As a customer-facing role, builds relationships with investigators and external partners and represents the company in country-level customer interactions.
• Oversees country commitments, compliance and training needs. Demonstrates the ability to lead across multiple dimensions and align with corporate requirements.
• Works with Country, Regional and HQ Operations; Pharmacovigilance, Regulatory, Global Medical Affairs and Global Human Health; coordinates with regional and broader organization. Builds and maintains relationships with investigators and external partners and represents the company in pharma industry issues when applicable.

Country Lead component (% of time defined by need and typically <50%, or <25% if no line management is included):

• Collaborates in a matrix organization with GCTO groups (CSSM, CQMs) to deliver objectives.
• Works with Functional Service Provider (FSP) local leadership to ensure adequate resourcing for the internal clinical trial portfolio.
• Collaborates with CRO local leadership to ensure successful outsourced trials.
• Represents GCTO in Medical Governance Council.
• Supports Investigator relationships with R&D divisions and Human Health colleagues; contributes to program lifecycle management (prioritizing programs, working with KOLs, etc.).
• Take responsibility for subsidiary clinical audits, in partnership with QA and the GCP QCC.
• Represents the GCTO organization internally and externally within the industry in the country.
• Represents GCTO in the local subsidiary management team (possible extended leadership team).
• If acting as line manager of GCTO staff: ensure scientific and operational training; manage resources to assign appropriately skilled staff to support portfolio execution and achieve GCTO, GCD and R&D objectives; set performance standards and uphold KPI-oriented performance.

CORE Competencies:

• Knowledge in Site Management.
• Strong organizational skills with demonstrated success.
• Ability to make decisions independently and oversee activities related to clinical research in the country under global policies with CRM/CRD oversight.
• Strong understanding of local regulatory environment and ability to weigh pros and cons with input from manager.
• Strong scientific and clinical research knowledge.
• Strong understanding of clinical trial planning, management and metrics; ability to manage multiple deliverables and protocols simultaneously.
• Ability to collaborate across GCTO and OUR RESEARCH & DEVELOPMENT DIVISION in a matrix organization.
• Ability to manage resource allocation, processes, productivity, quality and project delivery.
• Strong communication skills in written and spoken English and local language.
• Strategic thinking.

Behavioral Competency Expectations:

• High emotional intelligence.
• Leadership skills to align with the goals of OUR RESEARCH & DEVELOPMENT DIVISION, GCD and GCTO.
• Ability to identify problems, conflicts and opportunities early and lead mitigation plans and conflict resolution.
• Ability to negotiate skillfully in tough situations with internal and external groups; maintain relationships while driving results; be direct yet diplomatic and timely.
• Ability to build and maintain professional relationships with investigators and external stakeholders; strong communication, educational, diplomatic and empathetic skills.

Experience Requirements:

Required: >10 years of relevant experience.

Priority: People management experience; Saudi market experience.

Educational Requirements:

Required: Bachelor degree in Science (or comparable).

Preferred: Advanced degree (e.g., Master, MD, PhD).

Current Employees apply HERE

Current Contingent Workers apply HERE

Notes for Applicants: Search Firm Representatives Please Read Carefully Merck & Co., Inc. does not accept unsolicited assistance from search firms for employment opportunities. All CVs/resumes submitted by search firms to any employee at our company without a valid written search agreement in place for this position will be deemed the sole property of our company. No fee will be paid if a candidate is hired via an agency referral where no pre-existing agreement is in place. When agency agreements exist, introductions are position specific. Please, no phone calls or emails.

Employee Status: Regular

Relocation:

VISA Sponsorship:

Travel Requirements:

Flexible Work Arrangements: Not Applicable

Shift:

Valid Driving License:

Hazardous Material(s):

Required Skills: Adaptability, Clinical Research, Clinical Research Management, Clinical Trial Documentation, Clinical Trial Management, Clinical Trial Management Processes, Clinical Trial Planning, Clinical Trials Monitoring, Clinical Trials Operations, Communication, Cross-Cultural Awareness, Decision Making, Ethical Standards, Good Clinical Practice (GCP), Leadership, Management Process, Oncology Trials, People Leadership, Production Operations, Product Operations

Preferred Skills:

Job Posting End Date: 10/13/2025

Note: A job posting is effective until the day before the listed end date. Please ensure you apply no later than the day before the end date.

Requisition ID: R

Job Description
This role combines the accountability of a clinical research manager and certain elements of a GCTO country lead role. Holders of this position are accountable for

• The performance and compliance for assigned protocols in a country in compliance with ICH/GCP and country regulations, Our company's policies and procedures, quality standards and adverse event reporting requirements internally and externally
• Under the oversight of the CRD, providing leadership to a country liaising with local country Management team, participating in the local medical governance and providing oversight for the GCTO team in the country serving as a primary point of contact for managing clinical trial execution in all its aspects across phases I/II through III/IV in that country It could include line management of the GCTO our company's employees if required

Responsibilities include, but are not limited to

CRM component ( Minimum of 50% of time expected to be project related, to be defined according to the need)

• Point of Contact (POC) for assigned protocols between Country Operations (CO) and clinical trial team (CTT) ( or ROC where applicable)
• Pro-actively drives/tracks execution and performance of deliverables/timelines/results to meet country commitments for assigned protocols. Strong collaboration with local CO roles. Forecasts country resource needs. Serves local business needs (signs contracts, manages budgets as delegated).
• Responsible for quality and compliance in assigned protocols in country in close collaboration with CRAs and local study team. Reviews Monitoring Visits Reports and Escalates performance issues and training needs to CRA manager and/or functional vendor and internal management as needed.
• Responsible for collaboration with functional outsourcing vendors, investigators, other external partners. Oversees country and site validations, site selection and recruitment in assigned protocols. Responsible for clinical trial education to sites. Country POC for programmatically outsourced trials for assigned protocols.
• Collaborates internally with local PV, Regulatory, GMA/GHH to align on key decisions in his/her studies. Significantly impacts on the ability to effectively conduct clinical studies and develop the pipeline, while maintaining local regulatory and compliance requirements in countries. The position has a significant impact on how a country can deliver country-specific trial commitments and objectives. As a customer-facing role, this position will build business relationships and represent our company's with investigators, functional outsourcing partners and other external partners and therefore have a significant impact on country-level customer relationships.
• Oversee country commitments, compliance and training needs. Additionally, business leadership and alignment with corporate requires that individual has ability to lead across several dimensions simultaneously.
• Works collaboratively with Country, Regional and HQ Operations; Pharmacovigilance, Regulatory, Global Medical Affairs and Global Human Health internally; and with external functional outsourcing vendors. Requires coordination and alignment with the regional and broader organization. Additionally, will work to build and maintain relationships with investigators and other external partners and promote the company reputation. In collaboration with CRD and/or CRM manager represents our company's in Pharma industry issues and in seeking influence in external R&D environment.)

Country Lead component (% of time to be defined according to the needand always less than 50% or less than 25% if no line management is included.)

• Work collaboratively in a matrix organization with all groups within GCTO, especially with Clinical Sciences and Study Management (CSSM), Clinical Quality Managers (CQMs), to deliver objectives.
• Collaborate with Functional Service Provider (FSP) local Leadership to ensure adequate and appropriate resourcing for the Our company's internal clinical trial portfolio
• Collaborate with Clinical Research Organization (CRO) local Leadership to ensure the successful implementation of fully-outsourced clinical trials
• Represents GCTOin the Medical Governace council.
• Support the development and management of Investigator relationships in conjunction with the OUR RESEARCH & DEVELOPMENT DIVISION Therapy Areas, and when appropriate, Human Health colleagues. Contribute to the program life-cycle management through effective study allocation and execution (prioritizing programs, working with KOLs, etc.).
• Take responsibility for any subsidiary clinical audits, working closely with the Quality Assurance (QA) group and the Good Clinical Practice Quality and Compliance Council (GCP QCC).
• Represents the GCTO organization both internally and externally within the industry in the country.
• Represents GCTO in the local subsidiary management team ( could be extended leadership team)
• In case of line manager of GCTo staff
• Responsible for ensuring appropriate scientific and operational training for staff members.
• Effectively manage resources to ensure appropriately skilled and high performing staff members are assigned to support the effective execution of the portfolio and achieve GCTO, GCD, and OUR RESEARCH & DEVELOPMENT DIVISION objectives. Sets clear performance standards and holds self and organization accountable for achieving results. Embraces GCTO metrics and performance standards (KPI's)

CORE Competency Expectations

• Knowledge in Site Management.
• Strong organizational skills with demonstrated success required.
• Requires ability to make decisions independently and oversee important activities relevant to clinical research activities in the country according to predetermined global policies and commitments with the support, oversight and supervision of the CRM Manager or CRD
• Requires strong understanding of local regulatory environment for the individual to weigh
• pros and cons of key decisions with input from manager.
• Strong scientific and clinical research knowledge is required for this position.
• Strong understanding of clinical trial planning, management and metrics is essential as well as the ability to focus on multiple deliverables and protocols simultaneously.
• Ability to collaborate with different stakeholders within GCTO and OUR RESEARCH & DEVELOPMENT DIVISION in a matrix organization.
• Ability and skills to manage resource allocation, processes (and controls), productivity, quality and project delivery
• Strong Communication skills requiring proficiency in written and spoken English and local language. The incumbent must be competent and effective in written and verbal communication.
• Strategic thinking

Behavioral Competency Expectations

• High emotional intelligence
• Leadership skills that enable and drive alignment with the goals, purpose and mission of Our company's Research Labs (OUR RESEARCH & DEVELOPMENT DIVISION), Global Clinical Development (GCD) and GCTO
• Ability to identify problems, conflicts and opportunities early and lead, analyse and prepare mitigation plans and drive conflict resolution is critical.
• Required to negotiate skillfully in tough situations with both internal and external groups; settle differences with minimum noise; win concessions without damaging relationships; be both direct and forceful as well as diplomatic; gain trust quickly from other parties in negotiations and have an excellent sense of timing. Examples of common problems include 1) low patient recruitment, 2) inadequate staff to meet business needs, 3) performance or compliance issues, 4) working with regulatory issues and the broader organization, and 5) resolution of conflictive situations on country level.
• Requires skills to effectively build and maintain professional relationships with investigators and other external stakeholders, requiring strong communication, educational/pedagogic, diplomatic and empathic skills.
• Experience Requirements

Required

• 10 years of experience job experience.

  
  

Priority

• People Management experience
• Saudi Market experience
• Educational Requirements

Required

• Bachelor degree in Science (or comparable)

Preferred

• Advanced degree, (e.g., , Master degree, MD, PhD)

Current Employees apply HERE

Current Contingent Workers apply HERE

Search Firm Representatives Please Read Carefully
Merck & Co., Inc., Rahway, NJ, USA, also known as Merck Sharp & Dohme LLC, Rahway, NJ, USA, does not accept unsolicited assistance from search firms for employment opportunities. All CVs / resumes submitted by search firms to any employee at our company without a valid written search agreement in place for this position will be deemed the sole property of our company. No fee will be paid in the event a candidate is hired by our company as a result of an agency referral where no pre-existing agreement is in place. Where agency agreements are in place, introductions are position specific. Please, no phone calls or emails.

Employee Status
Regular

Relocation
VISA Sponsorship
*Travel Requirements
Flexible Work Arrangements *
Not Applicable

Shift
Valid Driving License
Hazardous Material(s)
*Required Skills *
Adaptability, Clinical Research, Clinical Research Management, Clinical Trial Documentation, Clinical Trial Management, Clinical Trial Management Processes, Clinical Trial Planning, Clinical Trials Monitoring, Clinical Trials Operations, Communication, Cross-Cultural Awareness, Decision Making, Ethical Standards, Good Clinical Practice (GCP), Leadership, Management Process, Oncology Trials, People Leadership, Production Operations, Product Operations

*Preferred Skills
Job Posting End Date *
10/13/2025

• A job posting is effective until PM on the day BEFORE the listed job posting end date. Please ensure you apply to a job posting no later than the day BEFORE the job posting end date.

Requisition ID
R

Job Description

This role combines the accountability of a clinical research manager and certain elements of a GCTO country lead role. Holders of this position are accountable for:

• The performance and compliance for assigned protocols in a country in compliance with ICH/GCP and country regulations, Our company's policies and procedures, quality standards and adverse event reporting requirements internally and externally
• Under the oversight of the CRD, providing leadership to a country: liaising with local country Management team, participating in the local medical governance and providing oversight for the GCTO team in the country serving as a primary point of contact for managing clinical trial execution in all its aspects across phases I/II through III/IV in that country It could include line management of the GCTO our company's employees if required

Responsibilities include, but are not limited to:

CRM component ( Minimum of 50% of time expected to be project related, to be defined according to the need):

• Point of Contact (POC) for assigned protocols between Country Operations (CO) and clinical trial team (CTT) ( or ROC where applicable)
• Pro-actively drives/tracks execution and performance of deliverables/timelines/results to meet country commitments for assigned protocols. Strong collaboration with local CO roles. Forecasts country resource needs. Serves local business needs (signs contracts, manages budgets as delegated).
• Responsible for quality and compliance in assigned protocols in country in close collaboration with CRAs and local study team. Reviews Monitoring Visits Reports and Escalates performance issues and training needs to CRA manager and/or functional vendor and internal management as needed.
• Responsible for collaboration with functional outsourcing vendors, investigators, other external partners. Oversees country and site validations, site selection and recruitment in assigned protocols. Responsible for clinical trial education to sites. Country POC for programmatically outsourced trials for assigned protocols.
• Collaborates internally with local PV, Regulatory, GMA/GHH to align on key decisions in his/her studies. Significantly impacts on the ability to effectively conduct clinical studies and develop the pipeline, while maintaining local regulatory and compliance requirements in countries. The position has a significant impact on how a country can deliver country-specific trial commitments and objectives. As a customer-facing role, this position will build business relationships and represent our company's with investigators, functional outsourcing partners and other external partners and therefore have a significant impact on country-level customer relationships.
• Oversee country commitments, compliance and training needs. Additionally, business leadership and alignment with corporate requires that individual has ability to lead across several dimensions simultaneously.
• Works collaboratively with Country, Regional and HQ Operations; Pharmacovigilance, Regulatory, Global Medical Affairs and Global Human Health internally; and with external functional outsourcing vendors. Requires coordination and alignment with the regional and broader organization. Additionally, will work to build and maintain relationships with investigators and other external partners and promote the company reputation. In collaboration with CRD and/or CRM manager represents our company's in Pharma industry issues and in seeking influence in external R&D environment.)

Country Lead component (% of time to be defined according to the needand always less than 50% or less than 25% if no line management is included.)

• Work collaboratively in a matrix organization with all groups within GCTO, especially with Clinical Sciences and Study Management (CSSM), Clinical Quality Managers (CQMs), to deliver objectives.
• Collaborate with Functional Service Provider (FSP) local Leadership to ensure adequate and appropriate resourcing for the Our company's internal clinical trial portfolio
• Collaborate with Clinical Research Organization (CRO) local Leadership to ensure the successful implementation of fully-outsourced clinical trials
• Represents GCTOin the Medical Governace council.
• Support the development and management of Investigator relationships in conjunction with the OUR RESEARCH & DEVELOPMENT DIVISION Therapy Areas, and when appropriate, Human Health colleagues. Contribute to the program life-cycle management through effective study allocation and execution (prioritizing programs, working with KOLs, etc.).
• Take responsibility for any subsidiary clinical audits, working closely with the Quality Assurance (QA) group and the Good Clinical Practice Quality and Compliance Council (GCP QCC).
• Represents the GCTO organization both internally and externally within the industry in the country.
• Represents GCTO in the local subsidiary management team ( could be extended leadership team)
• In case of line manager of GCTo staff:

o Responsible for ensuring appropriate scientific and operational training for staff members.

o Effectively manage resources to ensure appropriately skilled and high performing staff members are assigned to support the effective execution of the portfolio and achieve GCTO, GCD, and OUR RESEARCH & DEVELOPMENT DIVISION objectives. Sets clear performance standards and holds self and organization accountable for achieving results. Embraces GCTO metrics and performance standards (KPI's)

CORE Competency Expectations:

• Knowledge in Site Management.
• Strong organizational skills with demonstrated success required.
• Requires ability to make decisions independently and oversee important activities relevant to clinical research activities in the country according to predetermined global policies and commitments with the support, oversight and supervision of the CRM Manager or CRD
• Requires strong understanding of local regulatory environment for the individual to weigh
• pros and cons of key decisions with input from manager.
• Strong scientific and clinical research knowledge is required for this position.
• Strong understanding of clinical trial planning, management and metrics is essential as well as the ability to focus on multiple deliverables and protocols simultaneously.
• Ability to collaborate with different stakeholders within GCTO and OUR RESEARCH & DEVELOPMENT DIVISION in a matrix organization.
• Ability and skills to manage resource allocation, processes (and controls), productivity, quality and project delivery
• Strong Communication skills requiring proficiency in written and spoken English and local language. The incumbent must be competent and effective in written and verbal communication.
• Strategic thinking

Behavioral Competency Expectations:

• High emotional intelligence
• Leadership skills that enable and drive alignment with the goals, purpose and mission of Our company's Research Labs (OUR RESEARCH & DEVELOPMENT DIVISION), Global Clinical Development (GCD) and GCTO
• Ability to identify problems, conflicts and opportunities early and lead, analyse and prepare mitigation plans and drive conflict resolution is critical.
• Required to negotiate skillfully in tough situations with both internal and external groups; settle differences with minimum noise; win concessions without damaging relationships; be both direct and forceful as well as diplomatic; gain trust quickly from other parties in negotiations and have an excellent sense of timing. Examples of common problems include: 1) low patient recruitment, 2) inadequate staff to meet business needs, 3) performance or compliance issues, 4) working with regulatory issues and the broader organization, and 5) resolution of conflictive situations on country level.
• Requires skills to effectively build and maintain professional relationships with investigators and other external stakeholders, requiring strong communication, educational/pedagogic, diplomatic and empathic skills.
• Experience Requirements:

Required:

• 10 years of experience job experience.

  
  

Priority:

• People Management experience

. Saudi Market experience

• Educational Requirements:

Required:

• Bachelor degree in Science (or comparable)

Preferred:

• Advanced degree, (e.g., , Master degree, MD, PhD)

Current Employees apply HERE

Current Contingent Workers apply HERE

Search Firm Representatives Please Read Carefully

Merck & Co., Inc., Rahway, NJ, USA, also known as Merck Sharp & Dohme LLC, Rahway, NJ, USA, does not accept unsolicited assistance from search firms for employment opportunities. All CVs / resumes submitted by search firms to any employee at our company without a valid written search agreement in place for this position will be deemed the sole property of our company. No fee will be paid in the event a candidate is hired by our company as a result of an agency referral where no pre-existing agreement is in place. Where agency agreements are in place, introductions are position specific. Please, no phone calls or emails.

Employee Status:

Regular

Relocation:

VISA Sponsorship:

Travel Requirements:

Flexible Work Arrangements:

Not Applicable

Shift:

Valid Driving License:

Hazardous Material(s):

Required Skills:

Adaptability, Clinical Research, Clinical Research Management, Clinical Trial Documentation, Clinical Trial Management, Clinical Trial Management Processes, Clinical Trial Planning, Clinical Trials Monitoring, Clinical Trials Operations, Communication, Cross-Cultural Awareness, Decision Making, Ethical Standards, Good Clinical Practice (GCP), Leadership, Management Process, Oncology Trials, People Leadership, Production Operations, Product Operations

Preferred Skills:

Job Posting End Date:

10/13/2025

• A job posting is effective until 11:59:59PM on the day BEFORE the listed job posting end date. Please ensure you apply to a job posting no later than the day BEFORE the job posting end date.

Requisition ID:R

Company: King Abdullah University of Science & Technology

The Research Output and Preservation Lead is responsible for expanding the University Library's research output and preservation services and provides strategic and operational direction and recommendations for the University Library’s management. This role involves managing initiatives like KAUST's institutional repository, university archives, research data management services, systems integrations and reporting.

Collaborate with various library teams and university entities, including Researchers, Core Labs, Central IT, and the Office of Sponsored Research.

The Research Output and Preservation Lead will be the primary point of consultation and training related to the research output services, it will report to the Library Manager.

• Work closely with the Library manager to identify strategic areas for growth, change and adjustment the Library’s preservation and curation services.
• Oversee all operations and activities related to the University Archive, Institutional Repository, Systems Integrations and Reporting.
• Provides strategic and operational recommendations for the University Library’s expanding portfolio of research output services.
• Develop services related to the discovery, management, analysis, sharing and reusability of research output.
• Coordinate and lead strategic planning conversations with the Library manager on the Library’s curation and preservation services, providing technical insight and expert opinion on the Library’s options and direction.
• Provide leadership, management and coordination for library teams working on existing and proposed research output services, such as the institutional repository, preservation, and digital collections platforms.
• Coordinate activities between vendors and library management to keep research supports-related library contracts current, competitive and relevant; this includes working with service hosting providers to negotiate contract terms and technology and service enhancements.
• Work closely with members of the KAUST research community and KAUST administration to promote existing preservation and curation services, and to identify new opportunities for growth and innovation.
• Work closely with the University Archivist to develop a comprehensive preservation strategy and roadmap for the University.
• Provide domain expertise to Library units for developing research output -related policies and procedures.
• Represent the Library’s interests in University meetings and events, as required by the Library’s management team.
• Attend relevant regional and international conferences, representing the Library through networking and topical presentations.
• Organize and coordinate regional events promoting KAUST’s preservation and curation services, including annual Open Access Week event, repository workshops, and seminar focusing on collaborative opportunities for libraries and scholarly communication.
• Other duties as assigned.

• Demonstrated expertise in a library or academic environment providing preservation, and repository services, with at least one major institutional repository application platform (e.g. DSpace, Fedora, EPrints, etc.).
• Demonstrated proficiency and understanding of curation and preservation principles, including archives standards, preservation fundamentals, and best practices.
• Demonstrated proficiency and familiarity with current issues and themes in scholarly communications, intellectual property laws (including copyright and patent domains), and academic research evaluation practices and trends.
• Ability to manage multiple projects concurrently, to set and meet deadlines, and to adapt to new and changing situations, priorities and technologies.
• Demonstrated customer service skills and experience interacting with a diverse academic population including faculty, researchers, graduate students, staff and vendors.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team to produce results, solve problems, initiate ideas and projects.
• Excellent communication, problem solving, and interpersonal skills.

• Interest and exposure to evolving technologies in academic libraries, such as linked data and nextgeneration research data management and discovery tools.
• Familiarity with library- and research-oriented metadata standards and protocols, such as Dublin Core, Darwin Core, CSDGM, ABCD Schema, OAI-PMH, SWORD, etc.
• Knowledge of emerging technologies and trends in library information services and the broader information technology field.

• Required: BA/BS (computer science or related field preferred) or equivalent education and experience.
• Preferred: Master's degree in Library and Information Science (MLIS) or a related field.

• 5+ years' experience in Repository and Preservation Management within an Academic or Research Library setting.

• Sets the strategic vision for the DAH Scientific Research Center.
• Leads and promotes research by overseeing the production of high quality, peer-reviewed publications by the University community.
• Ensures adherence to professional standards and ethics in prospective research.
• Liaises with the national and international research community for strategic network building and interdisciplinary collaboration.
• Ensures that the DAH Scientific Research Center develops an international reputation for research.
• Facilitates acquisition of sufficient research funding from various sources.
• Provides support – logistical and financial – to faculty research projects and coordinates joint research projects amongst DAH faculty, and between DAH faculty and outside researchers.
• Holds training, seminars on research methodology and publishing opportunities.
• Links faculty with research publishing outlets.
• Develops and oversees budgets, policies and procedures for the DAH Scientific Research Center.
• Monitors the progress and outcomes of all projects as well as the Scientific Research Center as a whole.
• Observes the internal and external environment to detect research needs and areas of focus for research.
• Performs other duties as assigned.
• Risk and Crisis Management Duties:
• Guides the implementation of risk management across DAH
• Communicates key risk issues to the Departmental and Divisional Quality Assurance Committees, Planning Committee (Risk Management Sub-Committee) and the Risk and Crisis Management Unit, as needed.
• Reports on progress of risks to the Departmental and Divisional Quality Assurance Committees, Planning Committee (Risk Management Sub-Committee) and the Risk and Crisis Management Unit, as needed.
• Fosters a positive, risk-aware culture across DAH.
• Ensures new and emerging risks are identified, treated, monitored, reported, escalated and closed in line with DAH procedures
• Ensures that risk control activities in their area of responsibility are implemented
• Ensures their department members are aware of expectations in relation to risk management, by providing training.

Graduate Studies, Research and BusinessDivision

Minimum of 3 years of experience in the field

• Ph.D. or equivalent.
• Strong record of published research.
• A minimum of three years of experience in a higher education management/leadership role.
• A minimum of three years administrative experience in research project management.
• Ability to develop national and international collaborations.
• Ability to create a strategic vision.
• Experience in team-leadership in research.
• Experience in supervising graduate students.
• Excellent command of both English and Arabic Language (spoken and written).
• Ability to foster a collaborative, customer-oriented working environment.
• Effective interpersonal, communication and organizational skills.
• Ability to work independently, attend to multiple projects simultaneously, and meet deadlines.

• Sets the strategic vision for the DAH Scientific Research Center.
• Leads and promotes research by overseeing the production of high quality, peer-reviewed publications by the University community.
• Ensures adherence to professional standards and ethics in prospective research.
• Liaises with the national and international research community for strategic network building and interdisciplinary collaboration.
• Ensures that the DAH Scientific Research Center develops an international reputation for research.
• Facilitates acquisition of sufficient research funding from various sources.
• Provides support – logistical and financial – to faculty research projects and coordinates joint research projects amongst DAH faculty, and between DAH faculty and outside researchers.
• Holds training, seminars on research methodology and publishing opportunities.
• Links faculty with research publishing outlets.
• Develops and oversees budgets, policies and procedures for the DAH Scientific Research Center.
• Monitors the progress and outcomes of all projects as well as the Scientific Research Center as a whole.
• Observes the internal and external environment to detect research needs and areas of focus for research.
• Performs other duties as assigned.

Risk and Crisis Management Duties:

• Guides the implementation of risk management across DAH
• Communicates key risk issues to the Departmental and Divisional Quality Assurance Committees, Planning Committee (Risk Management Sub-Committee) and the Risk and Crisis Management Unit, as needed.
• Reports on progress of risks to the Departmental and Divisional Quality Assurance Committees, Planning Committee (Risk Management Sub-Committee) and the Risk and Crisis Management Unit, as needed.
• Allocates resources for risk management.
• Fosters a positive, risk-aware culture across DAH.
• Ensures new and emerging risks are identified, treated, monitored, reported, escalated and closed in line with DAH procedures
• Ensures that risk control activities in their area of responsibility are implemented
• Ensures their department members are aware of expectations in relation to risk management, by providing training.

Graduate Studies, Research and Business Division

Minimum of 3 years of experience in the field

• Ph.D. or equivalent.
• Strong record of published research.
• A minimum of three years of experience in a higher education management/leadership role.
• A minimum of three years administrative experience in research project management.
• Ability to develop national and international collaborations.
• Ability to create a strategic vision.
• Experience in team-leadership in research.
• Experience in supervising graduate students.
• Excellent command of both English and Arabic Language (spoken and written).
• Ability to foster a collaborative, customer-oriented working environment.
• Effective interpersonal, communication and organizational skills.
  Ability to work independently, attend to multiple projects simultaneously, and meet deadlines.

Full Time

Saudi

Female/Male

Jeddah

Contact Us

Email Address

Telephone

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124 / 385/ 806