Are you an ambitious postdoctoral researcher seeking to conduct independent, world-class research? The King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST) Global Fellowship 2026 in Saudi Arabia is now open for applications.
This fully funded program supports outstanding early-career researchers from around the world for a three-year postdoctoral fellowship. Fellows will have the opportunity to lead research addressing some of the most pressing global challenges in science, sustainability, energy, and innovation.
About the Fellowship
The KAUST Global Fellowship empowers researchers to work within KAUST’s state-of-the-art facilities and collaborate with top faculty. The program is designed to produce future leaders in research who will contribute to advancing science, technology, and innovation worldwide.
Fellows’ projects must align 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, research should support KAUST’s global impact themes:
- Health and Wellness
- Sustainable Environment and Essential Needs
- Energy and Industrial Leadership
- Economies of the Future
Fellowship Benefits
Successful applicants to the KAUST Global Fellowship 2026 will receive:
- Annual living stipend of $75,000
- Research funding up to $40,000
- Free on-campus accommodation
- Medical insurance
- Schooling support for up to two children
- Relocation allowance
- Annual travel grant
- Access to KAUST’s world-class research facilities and mentorship
Eligible Nationalities
The fellowship is open to applicants of all nationalities.
Eligibility Criteria
To qualify for the KAUST Global Fellowship 2026, applicants must:
- Hold a Ph.D. awarded within the last 4 years (on or after January 2022)
- Complete their Ph.D. before the fellowship begins
- Be willing to relocate to Saudi Arabia for the full duration
- Identify a KAUST faculty host and secure a Letter of Support
- Submit a strong, relevant research proposal
- No age limit applies
Apply Also
- UK Government Chevening Scholarship 2026 (Fully Funded Master’s in UK)
- Japan Tokyo Metropolitan University Tokyo Global Partner Scholarship 2026 (Fully Funded)
Application Requirements
Applicants must submit the following documents via the online portal:
- Detailed CV or Resume
- Two published research papers
- Three-year research proposal (using the KAUST template)
- Letter of Support from a KAUST faculty member
- Two recommendation letters from academic or professional referees
Application Process
- Complete the application form via the KAUST online portal (PlutoEdu platform).
- Upload all required documents in English.
- Ensure referees also register on the platform to submit recommendation letters.
- Submit the full application before the deadline.
Apply Here: KAUST Global Fellowship – Official Website
Frequently Asked Questions (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 research proposal aligned with KAUST’s divisions.
Q2. Can non-science researchers apply?
No. The fellowship is only for science and engineering fields (BESE, CEMSE, PSE).
Q3. What family support is provided?
KAUST offers free housing, schooling for up to two children, relocation allowance, and medical coverage.
Q4. Is a faculty host required before applying?
Yes. A Letter of Support from a KAUST faculty member is mandatory.
Q5. What type of research is preferred?
Projects that address global challenges such as environmental sustainability, energy, health, and innovation.
