KAUST Global Fellowship 2026 for International Researchers, Fully Funded Postdoctoral Program
Job Description
KAUST Global Fellowship 2026 for International Researchers
The KAUST Global Fellowship 2026 in Saudi Arabia is now accepting applications from talented postdoctoral researchers worldwide. This prestigious three-year fellowship supports independent research projects focused on global transformation and human advancement.
This fully funded program provides fellows with world-class facilities, generous financial support, and mentorship from leading faculty at the King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST)—one of the fastest-growing research universities in the world.
There is no application fee, and applicants from all nationalities are welcome.
About KAUST University
Founded in 2009, KAUST is a world-renowned research institution recognized for its rapid advancement in scientific innovation. It is:
- Ranked #1 in the Arab region by THE Arab University Rankings
- Ranked among the top 20 rising universities globally (Nature Index Rising Stars 2016)
- The first mixed-gender campus in Saudi Arabia
KAUST continues to accelerate high-impact research across engineering, science, and technology.
Fellowship Details
- Host Country: Saudi Arabia
- University: King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST)
- Duration: 3 Years
- Coverage: Fully Funded
- Eligible Applicants: All Nationalities
- Deadline: January 1, 2026
Financial Benefits (Fully Funded)
The KAUST Global Fellowship 2026 includes a comprehensive funding package:
- $75,000 annual salary
- Up to $40,000 research support
- Medical insurance
- On-campus housing
- Schooling for up to 2 children
- Relocation allowance
- Annual travel allowance
This makes the KAUST fellowship one of the most competitive and generous postdoctoral programs globally.
Available Research Areas
Fellows may conduct research in any of KAUST’s core divisions:
- Â Biological and Environmental Science and Engineering (BESE)
- Computer, Electrical, and Mathematical Science and Engineering (CEMSE)
- Physical Science and Engineering (PSE)
Research themes must align with KAUST’s global impact priorities:
- Health & Wellness
- Sustainability & Environmental Challenges
- Energy & Industrial Leadership
- Economic Transformation & Future Economies
Required Documents
Applicants must prepare the following:
- Two published research papers
- Research plan (3 years)
- Letter of support from a KAUST faculty member
- Two recommendation letters
- CV or Resume
Eligibility Criteria
Applicants must:
- Hold a PhD completed within the last 4 years
- Complete the PhD before the fellowship begins
- Be willing to relocate to KAUST for 3 years
- Secure a KAUST faculty host
- Submit a complete research plan aligned with KAUST’s key themes
- Follow all budget and documentation guidelines
- Submit the English application form using the official template
There are:
- No age limits
- No nationality restrictions
How to Apply
The KAUST Global Fellowship 2026 is an exceptional opportunity for emerging scholars, scientists, and innovators seeking to advance their research in a world-class environment. With full financial support and access to cutting-edge facilities, KAUST empowers global researchers to produce highly impactful scientific contributions.
Apply before January 1, 2026 and begin your postdoctoral journey at one of the world’s leading research universities.
- Complete the official application form (English only).
- Upload all required documents using the KAUST application template.
- Both applicants and referees must create accounts on the PlutoEdu system.
- Submit the full application before the deadline.
- 👉 Official Link
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Is this fellowship fully funded?
Yes, it includes salary, research funding, housing, relocation, schooling, and travel allowance.
2. Who can apply?
Postdoctoral researchers from any nationality.
3. Is a faculty host required?
Yes, applicants must contact a KAUST professor before applying.
4. What research areas are included?
Science, engineering, sustainability, energy, health, and future economy themes.
