Application Deadline: January 15th, 2026
LOCATION: Saudi Arabia
The KAUST Global Fellowship Program aims to attract and support outstanding emerging research leaders and scientists from around the world to build their path towards a fully independent career. The program inspires the young generation of scientists and engineers to address global challenges and explore opportunities that benefit humanity.
ELIGIBILITY:
For an applicant to be eligible for this Fellowship:
Must have been awarded a Ph.D. degree, within four calendar years (i.e., those applying in January 2026, must have received their Ph.D. after January 2022 inclusive);
Must expect to complete their Ph.D. before the start of their Fellowship;
Must be ready to move to KAUST to undertake their proposed three-year research project*;
Must identify in their application a KAUST faculty member who has confirmed and agreed to host them and their research project, if successful.
People of all nationalities are welcome to apply. They encourage female applications to promote a better gender balance in science and engineering.
Candidates must satisfy all Kingdom of Saudi Arabia requirements to obtain resident status.
Proposal Eligibility:
Focus on one or more of the KAUST research priorities: Health & Wellness, Sustainable Environment & Essential Needs, Energy & Industrial Leadership, and Economies of the Future;
Have an outline for a three-year duration;
Follow the budget and financial guidelines of the call;
Use the provided template.
The KAUST Global Fellowship Program supports research projects under the programs of the three KAUST academic divisions: Biological and Environmental Science and Engineering (BESE), Computer, Electrical, and Mathematical Science and Engineering (CEMSE), and Physical Science and Engineering (PSE).
BENEFIT:
Each successful fellow receives up to $40,000 of funding for their research proposal, along with a yearly living stipend of $75,000 plus benefits, including medical insurance, accommodation, schooling for up to 2 children, relocation allowance, and annual travel allowance. The funding allows researchers to prioritize their research on a full-time basis with financial security.
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