KAUST, a graduate research university on Saudi Arabia’s Red Sea coast, runs this three-year fellowship for early-career researchers who bring their own project.
Fellows design and lead independent research in water, food, health, energy, AI or the Red Sea, mentored by a KAUST faculty host and using the campus core labs. Selection runs in two stages: an open concept note, then a full proposal by invitation.
Benefits & funding
- Stipend of US$75,000 a year (US$6,250 a month)
- Research allowance of up to US$40,000 a year (FAQ); the Fellowship page says up to $40,000 for the research proposal
- Medical insurance, free campus housing, schooling for up to three children, daycare subsidy, relocation allowance and annual travel assistance
- Three-year term with a formal evaluation in year two; no renewal beyond three years
Eligibility
- Open to all nationalities; selected fellows must meet Saudi Arabia’s requirements for resident status and a work visa
- PhD awarded within four calendar years (for Call 2027, in January 2023 or later); PhD candidates may apply if they finish before the fellowship starts
- Documented parental leave or military/civil service can extend the four-year limit
- Must move to KAUST and work there full time, with no other primary employment
- KAUST alumni (MSc, PhD) and postdocs affiliated with KAUST for more than 12 months at the full-proposal deadline are not eligible
- One proposal per cycle; unsuccessful applicants may reapply once
Can you apply?
Here's who can apply
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Application process
- 1Submit a concept note through the online form, 1 September–1 October; name one to three potential KAUST hosts (the Stage 1 guidelines say up to two). No host letter is needed yet.
- 2Two reference letters are due by 1 October, uploaded with the form or emailed by the referees.
- 3Applicants whose named faculty agree to host are invited to submit a full proposal by 15 January.
- 4Shortlisted applicants have virtual interviews.
Program timeline
Concept notes (Call 2027, closed)
Sep 1, 2026 – Oct 1, 2026
Full proposal deadline (invited applicants)
Jan 15, 2027
Reviews and virtual interviews
2027-02 – 2027-05
Results and nomination of fellows
2027-06