Electrical and Computer Engineering PhD Program

Program Mission 
The mission of the PhD in Electrical and Computer Engineering at KAUST is to advance knowledge and train the next generation of academic and technological leaders for Saudi Arabia and the world. Through a dynamic integration of education, research, and community engagement, the program nurtures innovation that supports global progress and directly contributes to the Kingdom’s national priorities in Health and Wellness, Sustainable Environment, Energy and Industrial Leadership, and Economies of the Future. The program empowers students to conduct pioneering, interdisciplinary research that bridges theory and application across the full spectrum of modern ECE, ranging from semiconductors, nano-fabrication, imaging, and photonics to wireless communication, smart systems, and robotics.

Program Goals 
• Provide advanced doctoral education that builds deep theoretical foundations and rigorous research skills. 
• Develop independent researchers capable of generating original contributions to ECE. 
• Enable translation of research into practical and societal impact through interdisciplinary collaboration. 
• Promote professional leadership, ethical practice, and scholarly service within the academic and broader community.

Program Learning Outcomes (PLOs) 

Knowledge and Understanding 
• K1: Demonstrate comprehensive knowledge of advanced theories and principles across core ECE domains (e.g., circuits, electromagnetics, signal processing, control, communications, semiconductors, photonics, robotics, and computer systems). 
• K2: Specialize in-depth knowledge in one or more subfields sufficient to lead original research. 
• K3: Evaluate current research literature to identify trends, gaps, and open problems in a chosen area. 
• K4: Integrate mathematical, computational, and systems-level concepts to frame complex, multidisciplinary research questions. 

Skills 
• S1: Conduct original, independent research using appropriate theoretical, computational, or experimental methods. 
• S2: Implement advanced systems, experiments, and prototypes using contemporary tools, platforms, and instrumentation. 
• S3: Apply quantitative modeling, analysis, and algorithmic techniques to validate and interpret research results. 
• S4: Communicate research outcomes effectively in scholarly publications, presentations, and technical forums. 

Values, Autonomy, and Responsibility 
• V1: Adhere to high standards of research ethics, integrity, and reproducibility. 
• V2: Exercise autonomy and accountability in planning, managing, and progressing doctoral research. 
• V3: Pursue continuous professional development and lifelong learning to sustain research leadership. 
• V4: Contribute to the scholarly community through mentorship, collaboration, and service.