If you are a highly motivated postdoctoral researcher with a vision to solve global challenges through advanced scientific research, the KAUST Global Fellowship Program 2026 presents a remarkable opportunity. This scholarship is hosted by King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST) in Saudi Arabia.
This prestigious and fully funded fellowship is designed to support early-career researchers in their pursuit of innovative and impactful research. KAUST is a leading graduate research university, is recognized for its commitment to excellence in science and technology.
The fellowship program not only offers financial support but also provides access to state-of-the-art laboratories, mentorship from top global scientists, and an intellectually stimulating research environment.
It is an ideal platform for researchers who want to expand their academic and professional horizons while working on solutions to some of the world’s most pressing issues.
Whether your research focuses on sustainable energy, environmental preservation, digital transformation, or global health, the KAUST Global Fellowship offers the infrastructure, funding, and network to take your work to the next level.
Students can fill the online application form before the deadline January 15, 2026.
In this article, we shared every minute details related to the KAUST Global Fellowship 2026. Read the full article to know everything related to this scholarship.
About the KAUST Global Fellowship Program 2026
The KAUST Global Fellowship (KGFP) is a three-year, fully funded postdoctoral research program aimed at nurturing the next generation of scientific leaders. It is a merit-based fellowship that welcomes scholars from all over the world to conduct cutting-edge research aligned with KAUST’s five core pillars:
- Water
- Energy
- Environment
- Food and Health
- Digital Domain
Here is the important details related to the scholarship:
| Program Name | KAUST Global Fellowship Program 2026 |
| Host Country | Saudi Arabia |
| Host Institution | King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST) |
| Program Type | Fully Funded Postdoctoral Fellowship |
| Duration | 3 Years |
| Annual Stipend | $75,000 USD |
| Application Deadline | January 15, 2026 |
| Official Website | https://www.kaust.edu.sa |
Objectives of the Fellowship
The program is designed to:
- Support the career growth of exceptional early-career researchers.
- Facilitate access to KAUST’s world-class research infrastructure.
- Promote interdisciplinary and international collaboration.
- Provide practical, hands-on experience in a high-impact research setting.
- Contribute to meaningful scientific outcomes that benefit society.
Benefits of the KAUST Global Fellowship 2026
Selected fellows will receive comprehensive support, including:
- An annual stipend of $75,000 USD.
- An independent annual research budget of $45,000.
- Full access to KAUST laboratories and research facilities.
- On-campus living accommodations.
- Office space and working facilities at KAUST.
- Opportunities to participate in mentorship and leadership development programs.
- Medical insurance coverage.
- Travel and relocation allowance.
- Support for childcare and schooling, making it a family-friendly program.
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Eligibility Criteria
To apply for the KAUST Global Fellowship Program 2026, candidates must meet the following requirements:
- Hold a PhD awarded within the last 4 years or have at least 4 years of postdoctoral research experience.
- Propose a research project aligned with one or more of the KAUST’s five strategic pillars.
- Meet the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia’s residency requirements for foreign researchers.
- Demonstrate a strong track record of research excellence and leadership potential.
Required Documents
Applicants must submit the following documents as part of their application:
- KAUST Host PI (Principal Investigator) Letter.
- Three research proposals outlining the scope and impact of your planned work.
- Two recent publications.
- Two reference letters.
- Updated Curriculum Vitae (CV) or resume.
- A valid passport with sufficient validity for travel and residency.
Application Process
Follow these steps to apply for the KAUST program 2026:
- Register online using a valid email address.
- Confirm your registration through the verification email.
- Complete the online application form, including:
- Personal details (name, nationality, address, religion, etc.)
- Academic background (degree name, institution, specialization, date completed)
- Employment history (job title, organization, employment dates)
- Details of two best publications
- Name of one KAUST faculty member (host) and other preferences
- Names and contact information of two referees
- Upload all required documents.
- Submit the completed application before the deadline.
Once your application is submitted, it will be reviewed, and if shortlisted, you will be contacted by a KAUST faculty member for the next steps.
Application Deadline
The deadline to apply for the KAUST Global Fellowship 2026 is:
January 15, 2026
Early submission is encouraged to ensure adequate time for document review and reference letters.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1. Who can apply for the KAUST Global Fellowship?
The fellowship is open to international postdoctoral researchers from any country who meet the eligibility criteria.
Q2. Can I apply if I obtained my PhD more than 4 years ago?
No. Applicants must have earned their PhD within the last 4 years or have 4 years of equivalent research experience.
Q3. Is the fellowship family-friendly?
Yes. The fellowship includes support for childcare and schooling, in addition to accommodation and relocation assistance.
Q4. Do I need to contact a KAUST faculty member before applying?
You are required to list at least one KAUST faculty member as a potential host in your application.
Q5. Will my travel expenses be covered?
Yes. The fellowship provides a travel and relocation allowance for selected fellows.
Q6. Can I apply if my research is interdisciplinary?
Absolutely. KAUST encourages interdisciplinary research, especially projects that align with its five main pillars.