Accepting applications Fully Funded

KAUST Global Fellowship Program 2027 in Saudi Arabia | Fully Funded

Last updated Jul 4, 2026

Deadline

2026-10-01

Country

Saudi Arabia

Level

postdoc

Organization

King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST)

Field

water, energy, environment, food and health, digital domain

Funding

fully funded

Overview

The KAUST Global Fellowship Program in Saudi Arabia is a fully-funded postdoctoral fellowship designed for brilliant emerging research leaders from around the world. It supports innovative research aligned with KAUST's five key pillars: water, energy, environment, food and health, and the digital domain. The program aims to foster career development, provide international exposure, and allow scholars to contribute to impactful research over a 3-year duration.

Coverage

This is a fully-funded fellowship. Benefits include an annual stipend of USD 75,000, independent research funding of approximately USD 45,000 per year, free access to KAUST’s world-class laboratories and research facilities, free on-campus accommodation, a dedicated office and working facilities, mentorship from leading international faculty, access to leadership development programs, comprehensive medical insurance, travel and relocation allowance, and childcare and schooling support for eligible fellows.

Eligibility

Ethiopian students are eligible as the program is open to brilliant emerging research leaders from around the world and international students. Applicants must have earned a Ph.D. within the last four calendar years (for the 2027 call, the Ph.D. must have been awarded after January 2023, inclusive). The fellowship is specifically for postdoctoral researchers to commence a 3-year research project. Candidates must have 4 years of research experience if their Ph.D. was awarded more than 4 years ago. The proposed research project should address critical global challenges related to KAUST's five pillars. Candidates must also meet the residential requirements of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.

Requirements

Required documents include a KAUST Host PI Letter (if applicable), three research proposals, two publications, two reference letters, a Curriculum Vitae (CV)/Resume, and a valid passport.

How to apply

The application process is two-staged. Stage 1 (Concept Note) requires candidates to register through an email account. Applicants must provide personal information (name, address, country), academic qualification details (degree, institute, specialization, completion date), and details of their current or recent position. All required documents, including the KAUST Host PI Letter, research proposals, publications, reference letters, CV, and passport, must be uploaded. Applicants also need to provide details for two referees and one preferred KAUST faculty member. After completing all necessary fields, the registration request must be submitted. Stage 2 (Full Proposal) is by invitation only for selected candidates.

Notes

The program is merit-based and targets diverse research ideas within the specified pillars. Selected individuals will have free access to world-class facilities and resources.

Source & Verification

Host organization: King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST)

Original source: ScholarshipsCorner

Official application page: https://kgfp.kaust.edu.sa/

Verify the deadline, eligibility, and document list on the official website before applying.

How to Apply

1

Read the full requirements

Visit the official application page and read all eligibility criteria carefully before investing time in the application.
2

Gather your documents

Collect transcripts, certificates, and references. Official copies may require apostille — start this process early.
3

Request recommendation letters

Contact your referees at least 4–6 weeks before the deadline. Brief them on the scholarship and your goals.
4

Write your motivation letter

Be specific about your goals, why you chose this program, and your plan to contribute to Ethiopia after completing your studies.
5

Proofread and submit early

Submit at least 3–5 days before the deadline. Technical issues are common — never submit on the last day.