KAUST Saudi Arabia Global Fellowship 2026 (Fully Funded)
Description
Are you a postdoctoral researcher looking to advance your career in a world-class research environment? The KAUST Global Fellowship 2026 is now accepting applications. Hosted by King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST) in Saudi Arabia, this prestigious program offers outstanding early-career researchers from around the globe the opportunity to conduct independent research addressing key global challenges.
This fully funded fellowship spans three years, supporting research that contributes to science, sustainability, innovation, and human advancement. Selected fellows will receive generous financial and academic support, including funding for their research, a competitive salary, housing, and other key benefits.
Degree Level
KAUST Saudi Arabia Global Fellowship 2026 (Fully Funded) is available to undertake Fellowship level programs at King Abdullah University of Science and Technology.
Available Subjects
Applicants must propose research that aligns with one or more of KAUST’s core divisions:
- Biological and Environmental Science and Engineering (BESE)
- Computer, Electrical, and Mathematical Science and Engineering (CEMSE)
- Physical Science and Engineering (PSE)
Additionally, the research should support one or more global themes:
- Health and Wellness
- Sustainable Environment and Essential Needs
- Energy and Industrial Leadership
- Economies of the Future
Benefits
Fellows selected for the KAUST Global Fellowship will receive a comprehensive financial package:
- Annual living stipend of $75,000
- Research funding up to $40,000
- Medical insurance for the fellow
- Free accommodation
- Schooling support for up to two children
- Relocation allowance
- Annual travel grant
Eligible Nationalities
Open to applicants of all nationalities.
Eligibility Criteria
To be considered for the KAUST Global Fellowship, applicants must meet the following conditions:
- Open to all nationalities
- No age limit is specified
- A Ph.D. must have been awarded within the last 4 years (on or after January 2022)
- The Ph.D. must be completed before the fellowship begins
- Applicants should be ready to relocate to Saudi Arabia for the full duration
- A KAUST faculty host must be identified and willing to support the research proposal
Application Procedure
Required Documents
Applicants will need to submit the following materials via the online portal:
- Detailed CV or Resume
- Two published research papers
- Three-year research proposal
- Letter of support from a KAUST faculty member
- Two recommendation letters from academic or professional referees
Application Process
- Complete the application form using the official KAUST template (must be in English).
- Ensure all documents are uploaded before the deadline.
- Both applicants and referees must register accounts on the PlutoEdu platform to upload and access materials.
- The review process will begin shortly after the deadline.
Apply here: KAUST Global Fellowship Official Website
FAQs
Q1: Who can apply for the KAUST Global Fellowship?
Anyone from any country with a Ph.D. awarded within the last four years and a strong research proposal aligned with KAUST's strategic themes is eligible.
Q2: Can researchers from non-science fields apply?
No. This fellowship is specifically for research in the fields of science and engineering covered by KAUST’s divisions (BESE, CEMSE, PSE).
Q3: What support is available for families?
KAUST provides housing and covers the cost of schooling for up to two children, along with medical coverage and a relocation package.
Q4: Are researchers from countries outside Africa, South America, or Asia eligible?
Yes. The fellowship is open to all nationalities, including applicants from Europe, North America, Australia, and the Middle East.
Q5: Is it necessary to secure a faculty host before applying?
Yes. Applicants must identify and receive a Letter of Support from a KAUST faculty member willing to host their research project.
Q6: What kind of research is preferred?
Proposals must align with global priorities such as environmental sustainability, energy, health, or future economies and show strong scientific merit.
