The KAUST Global Fellowship Program 2026 offers a fully funded postdoctoral opportunity for talented early-career researchers worldwide. Hosted by the King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST) in Saudi Arabia, this fellowship supports independent, innovative research with generous funding, world-class facilities, expert mentorship, and a vibrant international research community.
About the KAUST Global Fellowship Program 2026
The KAUST Global Fellowship Program supports postdoctoral researchers who are ready to lead their own projects and advance scientific knowledge. Fellows receive a $75,000 yearly living allowance, access to professional development and global networking opportunities, and full benefits to pursue independent research.
Applications open on 1 July 2025 and close on 15 January 2026, giving prospective applicants several months to prepare their documents and research plan before applying through the official online portal.
Why Pursue the KAUST Global Fellowship Program?
- High annual stipend and research funding: Fellows receive a substantial living allowance to focus fully on their research.
- World-class research environment: Access to cutting-edge facilities and top research infrastructure at KAUST.
- Mentorship and community: Fellows benefit from guidance by experienced faculty, collaboration with global researchers, and professional development opportunities.
- Vibrant international experience: Join a diverse academic community addressing global challenges across disciplines.
Scholarship Summary
- Host Country: Saudi Arabia
- Host Institution: King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST)
- Study Level: Postdoctoral Fellowship
- Scholarship Type: Fully Funded Research Fellowship
- Annual Living Allowance: $75,000 USD per year
- Deadline: 15 January 2026
- Program Start: Approximately 30 August 2026 (anticipated)
- Research Funding: $20,000–$40,000 USD research support (varies by project)
- Benefits: Living allowance, travel support, health insurance, visa assistance, research grant
- Application Mode: Online
- Eligible Applicants: Researchers from all countries
Scholarship Benefits
The KAUST Global Fellowship Program offers comprehensive support to enable researchers to focus on impactful scientific projects:
- Fellows receive a yearly living allowance of $75,000 USD to cover personal expenses.
- A research grant ranging from $20,000 to $40,000 USD is provided, depending on the project’s requirements.
- Health insurance is included to ensure access to medical care.
- Travel funding is available for research collaborations and conferences.
- Visa and relocation assistance help ease the transition to Saudi Arabia.
- Researchers gain access to state-of-the-art laboratories and facilities for their work.
- Professional mentorship and development opportunities support career growth and skill enhancement.
Eligibility Criteria
To qualify for the KAUST Global Fellowship Program 2026, applicants must:
- Hold a PhD awarded within the last four years or expect to complete it before the fellowship begins.
- Identify a KAUST Host Principal Investigator (PI) willing to mentor and support the proposed research.
- Secure two referees to support the application.
- Apply through the official online portal (incomplete or late submissions are not considered).
Application Timeline
- Application Opens: 1 July 2025
- Application Deadline: 15 January 2026
- Program Start: Around 30 August 2026 (as indicated in the available snapshot)
- Application Mode: Online submission through the official portal
Required Documents
Applicants must prepare the following documents to include with their online application:
- Academic transcripts and degree certificates
- Essay or project statement
- Passport ID copy
- Recommendation letters (2)
