Head of the School of Irrigation and Agricultural Water Management

School description

The School of Irrigation and Agricultural Water Management plays a vital role in improving agricultural productivity and rural livelihoods through effective and sustainable use of water and soil resources.

The School integrates engineering, agronomy, environmental science, and digital technologies to optimise irrigation systems and promote sustainable food production under changing climatic conditions.

Key academic and research areas

• Irrigation system design, water conveyance, and on-farm distribution
• IoT-driven and sensor-based irrigation scheduling
• Remote sensing and GIS applications for crop–water monitoring and yield forecasting
• Soil moisture management, salinity control, and nutrient recycling
• Water–energy–food nexus approaches for sustainable agriculture
• Adaptation of irrigation systems to climate change

Responsibilities

• Lead the development of academic programmes in irrigation engineering and agricultural water management;
• Define and advance the School's research agenda, including precision irrigation, digital agriculture, and climate adaptation;
• Build strategic partnerships with national irrigation agencies, agricultural organisations, and international research networks;
• Supervise and support faculty recruitment, mentoring, and professional development;
• Ensure educational programmes meet national standards and reflect current industry practice;
• Oversee the School's budget and contribute to university-wide strategic initiatives;
• Represent the School in governance structures and in stakeholder engagement activities.

Requirements

• Doctoral degree (PhD or equivalent) in irrigation engineering, agricultural water management, or a related discipline;
• Strong academic and research record demonstrated by peer-reviewed publications and applied projects;
• Proven leadership and management experience in higher education, research, or agricultural development programs;
• Familiarity with precision irrigation technologies, digital agriculture, and climate-smart water management;
• Excellent communication, organizational, and teamwork skills;
• Proficiency in English; knowledge of Kazakh and/or Russian is an advantage.

Advantages

• Experience with international cooperation or donor-funded agricultural water projects;
• Background in integrated land and water resource planning;
• Vision for developing modern educational and research programs linking engineering, data science, and agriculture.

Selection process

• Applications are reviewed on receipt; the position remains open until filled;
• Shortlisted candidates will be invited to an interview.

Documents

• Letter of application describing leadership philosophy and vision for the School’s development;
• Detailed Curriculum Vitae;
• Copies of academic diplomas and relevant certificates;
• List of publications, projects, and research achievements;
• Contact details of at least two professional referees.