KAUST Global Fellowship Program in Saudi Arabia (Fully Funded)

The KAUST Global Fellowship Program (Call 2027) is a prestigious, merit-based fully funded research fellowship that empowers outstanding early-career scientists and engineers to pursue independent, fellow-led research. Hosted at King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST) in Thuwal, Saudi Arabia, this three-year research fellowship in Saudi Arabia offers a rare opportunity for early-career researchers seeking fully funded postdoctoral fellowships in the Middle East.

The KAUST Global Fellowship provides world-class research facilities, generous living stipends, and dedicated funding to address critical global challenges across science and engineering disciplines. For researchers comparing fully funded fellowships for scientists and engineers or independent research fellowships abroad, this program stands out for its strong emphasis on fellow-led autonomy and substantial institutional support. Applicants relocating to Saudi Arabia should also review work visa and health insurance requirements, as compliant coverage is typically required before enrollment.

Backed by generous financial support and cutting-edge research infrastructure, the KAUST Global Fellowship Program 2027 remains one of the most competitive fully funded fellowships in the Middle East, offering early-career scientists a genuine pathway to lead independent research with global impact.

Fellowship Overview & Fast Facts

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Comprehensive Benefits & Coverage

Global Fellows receive exceptional financial security and family support:

Competitive Personal Allowance: Annual living stipend of $75,000 USD.

Research Project Budget: Up to $40,000 USD in dedicated funding for experimental costs, software, and tools.

On-Campus Housing: Fully covered, modern accommodation on the KAUST campus.

Family & Education Support: Schooling allowances for up to 3 children.

Healthcare & Insurance: Full comprehensive medical and dental insurance coverage.

Travel & Relocation: Airfare assistance to/from Saudi Arabia and relocation support.

Professional Growth: Enrollment in leadership development programs, Harvard HE Teaching Certification, and mentorship structures.

Core Strategic Research Missions

Proposed research concepts must align with one or more of KAUST’s six primary strategic missions:

1. Water: Advanced desalination, water reuse, and hydrology.
2. Food: Sustainable agriculture, aridland farming, and food security.
3. Health: Bio-engineering, disease prevention, and precision medicine.
4. Energy: Clean energy transitions, solar power, and carbon capture.
5. Artificial Intelligence (AI): Machine learning, data analytics, and intelligent systems.
6. The Red Sea: Marine conservation, oceanography, and coastal ecosystems.

> Academic Division Alignment: Projects must fit within KAUST’s academic divisions: BESE (Biological & Environmental Science), CEMSE (Computer, Electrical & Mathematical Science), PSE (Physical Science & Engineering), or BioMed (Biomedical Sciences).

Also Check: Japan (JSPS) International Fellowships in Japan (Fully Funded)

Eligibility Criteria

PhD Award Date: Must have earned a PhD degree after January 2023 (inclusive) or be on track to complete the PhD before the fellowship start date.

Nationality: Open to candidates of all nationalities worldwide. (Applications from qualified female candidates are strongly encouraged).

Relocation: Must be willing to reside on campus in Thuwal, Saudi Arabia for the 3-year term.

Host Alignment: Identify 1 to 3 KAUST faculty members whose ongoing research aligns with your proposed work.

Saudi Visa Requirements: Must satisfy residency and visa clearance standards for the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.

Required Application Documents

Stage 1: Concept Note (Deadline: October 1, 2026)

• Curriculum Vitae (CV): Maximum 4 pages, including full publication list.
• Selected Publications: PDF attachments of up to 2 key research publications.
• Concept Note Form: Completed official 2027 Concept Note template.
• Reference Letters: Two academic letters of recommendation submitted via the application system.

Stage 2: Full Research Proposal (Deadline: January 15, 2027)

(Only submitted if invited following Stage 1 faculty review)

• Full Research Proposal: Detailed project framework using the Call 2027 template.
• Host PI Expression of Support: Formal support endorsement from an eligible KAUST faculty member.

Also Check: 45 Link to Master, PhD Scholarships, Research Grants & Fellowships

Selection Timeline (Call 2027)

┌──────────────────────────────────────────────────────────┐
│ Stage 1: Concept Note Submission                         │
│ Portal Window: September 1 – October 1, 2026             │
└────────────────────────────┬─────────────────────────────┘
                             │
                             ▼
┌──────────────────────────────────────────────────────────┐
│ Stage 2: Faculty Match & Full Proposal (By Invitation)   │
│ Submission Period: November 15, 2026 – January 15, 2027  │
└────────────────────────────┬─────────────────────────────┘
                             │
                             ▼
┌──────────────────────────────────────────────────────────┐
│ Stage 3: Technical Reviews & Virtual Panel Interviews    │
│ Evaluation Window: February – May 2027                   │
└────────────────────────────┬─────────────────────────────┘
                             │
                             ▼
┌──────────────────────────────────────────────────────────┐
│ Final Nomination & Offer Announcements                   │
│ Announcement Window: June 2027                           │
└───────────────────────────────────

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Also Check: The Joint Japan/World Bank Scholarship 2027 (Fully Funded)