Dr. Kevin Cullen
Vice President for Innovation
Dr. Kevin Cullen was appointed as Vice President for Innovation at KAUST in 2018. Kevin is a
leader in global innovation with expertise in both economic development and industrial
engagement. As Vice President of KAUST Innovation, he leads the University's intellectual
property portfolio, help create and support new businesses, joint ventures, and
collaborations with industry partners, and continue to foster a strong culture of
entrepreneurship in the Kingdom.
Dr. Cullen has over 20 years of experience in academic innovation and business
development. Throughout his career he has helped elevate university-based innovation
enterprises that have led to the launch of more than 250 startup companies as well
as numerous products and services.
Prior to joining KAUST, Kevin spent six years as CEO of Innovations at the
University of New South Wales (UNSW) in Sydney, Australia. He helped transform UNSW
from a traditional commercialization unit into an innovation hub by supporting a
broad range of university priorities including economic development and social
impact.