King Abdullah University of Science and Technology fellowship 2025 in Saudi Arabia

The KAUST Global Fellowship 2026 is an exclusive opportunity for exceptional postdoctoral researchers seeking to work in a cutting-edge academic environment. Hosted by King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST), this three-year, fully funded fellowship enables early-career researchers from around the world to conduct independent, high-impact research aligned with global priorities.

The program emphasizes innovation in science and technology, offering scholars the chance to address complex global challenges in sustainability, health, energy, and future economic development.

Fields of Research

Applicants must propose research aligned with at least one of the following KAUST academic divisions:

• Biological and Environmental Science and Engineering (BESE)

• Computer, Electrical, and Mathematical Science and Engineering (CEMSE)

• Physical Science and Engineering (PSE)

Proposals should also address one or more of KAUST’s global impact themes:

• Health and Wellness

• Sustainable Environment and Essential Needs

• Energy and Industrial Leadership

• Economies of the Future

Fellowship Benefits

Selected fellows will receive a comprehensive financial and academic support package, including:

• Annual living stipend: USD 75,000

• Research funding: Up to USD 40,000

• Free on-campus housing

• Medical insurance

• Relocation support

• Annual travel allowance

• Schooling support for up to two children

Eligibility Criteria

To apply for the KAUST Global Fellowship 2026, applicants must meet the following criteria:

• Open to applicants of all nationalities

• Ph.D. must be awarded on or after January 2022

• Ph.D. degree must be completed before the start of the fellowship

• No age restrictions apply

• Must be willing to relocate to Saudi Arabia for the fellowship duration

• Must identify and receive support from a KAUST faculty host

Required Documents

Applicants must prepare and submit the following documents via the official application portal:

• Updated Curriculum Vitae (CV) or resume

• Two published research papers

• A three-year research proposal

• A letter of support from a KAUST faculty host

• Two recommendation letters from academic or professional referees

Application Process

1. Complete the online application using the official KAUST template (in English).

2. Upload all required documents before the deadline.

3. Register an account on the PlutoEdu platform for both applicant and referees.

4. Ensure your faculty host uploads their support letter through the same platform.

5. The selection process will begin shortly after the deadline.

Apply now through the KAUST Global Fellowship Official Website

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1: Who is eligible to apply for the KAUST Global Fellowship?

Any researcher of any nationality who received their Ph.D. on or after January 2022 and has a strong research proposal aligned with KAUST’s focus areas may apply.

Q2: Can applicants from non-science fields apply?

No. This fellowship is specifically for fields within science and engineering, particularly those aligned with KAUST’s divisions: BESE, CEMSE, and PSE.

Q3: Is family support included in the fellowship?

Yes. KAUST provides free housing, medical coverage, and schooling support for up to two children, along with a relocation allowance.

Q4: Are applicants from Europe, North America, or Australia eligible?

Yes. The fellowship is open to all nationalities without geographic restrictions.

Q5: Is it mandatory to have a KAUST faculty host before applying?

Yes. Applicants must secure a faculty host who will provide a formal letter of support for their research proposal.

Q6: What type of research proposals are favored?

Proposals should address global challenges such as sustainability, energy innovation, health advancements, or technological progress and must align with KAUST’s mission.