King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST) seeks to be a catalyst for societal and economic change in Saudi Arabia and the world, addressing national and global needs under four research priorities: Economies of the future, Health & Wellness, Sustainable environment & Essential needs, Energy & Industrial Leadership.
The KAUST Global Postdoctoral Fellowship Program is one of several KAUST initiatives that support early-career scientists and engineers. Launched in 2021, the fellowship funds scientists to conduct their research at KAUST for three years. The selection of fellows is based on outstanding scientific accomplishments as well as a research proposal that is aligned with the University’s research priorities. Following the KAUST strategy, innovation and the potential for commercialization are also weighed in the decision.
Global Fellows have access to the exceptional infrastructure available at KAUST, including one of the world's fastest supercomputers, a comprehensive suite of electron microscopes, nuclear magnetic resonance machines and other imaging instruments, a class 100 cleanroom for nanofabrication, a series of research vessels to explore the Red Sea, and much more. They also benefit from several learning and development programs available at KAUST for certification in teaching, leadership and other subjects.
About the fellowship
The KAUST Global Fellowship Program is designed to attract emerging research leaders working across areas under the four research priorities of KAUST. It supports excellent postdoctoral researchers taking the initial steps towards a fully independent research career by providing them the resources to conduct and manage a three-year research project.
Global Fellows enjoy opportunities for interdisciplinary collaboration and research, leadership and teaching certification, community engagement, mentorship, access to an international alumni network, and a welcoming staff dedicated to the wellbeing of all Global Fellows.
Requirements
- D. degree related to the four research priorities of KAUST
- Up to 4 years of post-PhD experience
- Strong communication skills and fluency in English
- Submission of an innovative research proposal
- Support letter from a KAUST host PI
Applicants should apply through the online application form and following the instructions on the KAUST Global Fellowship Program website https://kgfp.kaust.edu.sa/
What we offer
- 3 years fixed term contract (with an evaluation at the end of the 2nd year)
- Annual stipend of 75,000 USD
- Independent annual research budget of up to 40,000 USD
- Access to unparalleled laboratory facilities
- Career and professional development programs, including mentoring, teaching, and leadership programs
- Medical insurance, accommodation depending on family status, schooling for up to 2 kids, relocation, and annual travel allowance
About KAUST
King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST) is an international, graduate-only private research university with researchers from over 110 nationalities, located on the shores of the Red Sea in Saudi Arabia. KAUST attracts top international faculty, scientists, engineers, and students to conduct curiosity-driven and goal-oriented research to address the world’s pressing scientific and technological challenges. The university offers outstanding research facilities, generous research funding and internationally competitive salaries. The award-winning campus is designed to inspire and motivate students, employees and their families.
Why KAUST?
- Internationally Renowned Faculty directs the University’s talented postgraduate students, researchers and postdoctoral fellows,
- State-of-the art facilities provide an environment that promotes targeted goal-oriented research,
- Competitive annual stipend, benefits, and research budget,
- Extensive collaboration with industrial partners in the region and internationally,
- Attractive residential campus enhances work/life balance,
- KAUST is ranked #1 in Times Higher Education Arab University Rankings 2023,
- Unique international environment with more than 110 nationalities on campus.
How to Apply
Interested candidates should apply through the online application form available on the KAUST Global Fellowship Program website: https://kgfp.kaust.edu.sa/
Online Info Sessions for Prospective Candidates
Join our upcoming online info session to learn more about the fellowship, eligibility, and application process. Details and registration are available on the program website.
Session 1
Date: Monday, September 22, 2025
Time: 12:00pm AST / 10:00 BST / 11:00 CEST / 17:00 SGT / 19:00 AEST / 05:00 EDT / 02:00 PDT
Register here (best suited to audiences in Europe, Africa, Asia, Oceania)
Session 2
Date: Monday, September 22, 2025
Time: 19:00 AST / 17:00 BST / 18:00 CEST / 00.00 (+1) SGT / 02:00 (+1) AEST / 12:00 EDT / 09:00 PDT
Register here (best suited to audiences in North/ Central/ South America and Europe)
