Dr James Turner is a Professor of Mechanical Engineering at KAUST. He has 35 years of experience in the field of internal combustion engines, and is a specialist in the field of spark-ignition combustion, pressure charging, alcohol fuels, and engine concepts.

In addition to his specializations, he is interested in renewable energy and its application to the transport sector, with particular emphasis on the use of and possibilities afforded by alcohol fuels and hydrogen.

He originally had a career in industry, spending over 21 years working at Lotus Engineering.  He also worked at Norton Motorcycles, Cosworth, and Jaguar Land Rover.  After this, and before moving to KAUST, he was Professor of Engines and Energy Systems at the University of Bath in the UK.