Grant opportunity
KAUST Global Fellowship Program for Early Career Researchers 2027
KAUST will open its two-stage global postdoctoral fellowship competition for ambitious science and engineering researchers on 1 September 2026.
- Funder
- King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST)
- Stage 1 applications open 1 September and close 1 October 2026
- Stage 1 applications open 1 September and close 1 October 2026: Oct 1, 2026
- Award
- USD 75,000 annual stipend, up to USD 40,000 research funding, accommodation and benefits for up to three years
- Applicant
- Outstanding early-career postdoctoral researchers worldwide with an independent research idea aligned with KAUST research priorities and a suitable KAUST host principal investigator.
- Discipline
- Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics
- Region
- Global / Saudi Arabia
- Posted
- Aug 10, 2026
Call summary
Overview
The KAUST Global Fellowship helps emerging research leaders pursue independent, high-impact work using KAUST facilities and mentorship. Projects should address major scientific and societal challenges while complementing the university's research missions.
Who can apply
Applicants should be early-career researchers with a strong doctoral record, a compelling independent proposal and a host match at KAUST. The controlling application guidelines specify PhD timing, mobility and conflict-of-interest rules.
What it supports
- Independent science and engineering research
- KAUST mentorship and access to advanced facilities
- Research aligned with KAUST missions and Saudi Vision 2030
Funding and duration
- USD 75,000 yearly living stipend.
- Up to USD 40,000 in dedicated research funding plus medical insurance, on-campus housing, relocation, annual travel and eligible family support.
Stage 1 applications open 1 September and close 1 October 2026
Stage 1 applications open 1 September and close 1 October 2026: Oct 1, 2026
How to apply
Prepare a concept note and identify a relevant KAUST host before the Stage 1 window. Shortlisted applicants submit a full proposal during Stage 2 from 15 November to 15 January.
Call details
Source-based overview
The KAUST Global Fellowship is a three-year research-first programme for postdoctoral scientists and engineers with ideas that can develop into independent research careers. Fellows receive substantial research resources, institutional mentorship and a comprehensive relocation and living package.
Eligibility
Applicants should be early-career researchers with a strong doctoral record, a compelling independent proposal and a host match at KAUST. The controlling application guidelines specify PhD timing, mobility and conflict-of-interest rules.
Funding and benefits
USD 75,000 yearly living stipend.
Up to USD 40,000 in dedicated research funding plus medical insurance, on-campus housing, relocation, annual travel and eligible family support.
Themes and supported activities
Independent science and engineering research
KAUST mentorship and access to advanced facilities
Research aligned with KAUST missions and Saudi Vision 2030
Deadline and timeline
Stage 1 applications open 1 September and close 1 October 2026: Stage 1 applications open 1 September and close 1 October 2026: Oct 1, 2026.
Applicants should confirm the exact deadline time, time zone, required documents, portal steps and any institutional approvals on the official call page before submitting.
How to apply
Prepare a concept note and identify a relevant KAUST host before the Stage 1 window. Shortlisted applicants submit a full proposal during Stage 2 from 15 November to 15 January.
Before applying, check eligibility rules, budgets, attachments, page limits, partner requirements, cost-share conditions and whether the opportunity uses an expression of interest, full proposal, registration or nomination stage.