KAUST Global Postdoctoral Fellowship

Position Description

King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST) is an international, graduate-level research university that seeks to drive discovery and innovation addressing both national and global challenges. Guided by four strategic research priorities - Economies of the future, Health & Wellness, Sustainable environment & Essential needs, Energy & Industrial Leadership - KAUST brings together world-class faculty, researchers, and state-of-the-art infrastructure to accelerate transformative solutions for society.

Launched in 2021, the KAUST Global Postdoctoral Fellowship Program supports outstanding early-career scientists and engineers from around the world. Fellows receive funding to pursue independent, cutting-edge research at KAUST for three years. Selection is based on exceptional scientific achievements and the submission of an innovative research proposal aligned with KAUST's strategic priorities and the Vision 2030 of Saudi Arabia. Innovation, interdisciplinary collaboration, and potential for real-world impact and commercialization are key elements of the evaluation.

About the fellowship

The KAUST Global Fellowship is designed to prepare emerging research leaders for independent careers in academia, industry, and beyond. It provides the resources and community to conduct and manage a three-year research project within KAUST's research ecosystem.

Global Postdoctoral Fellows have access to KAUST's exceptional research infrastructure, including one of the world's fastest supercomputers, a full suite of advanced imaging facilities, a class 100 cleanroom for nanofabrication, a seires of research vessels to explore the Red Sea, and extensive core laboratories and shared research platforms.

Other benefits include opportunities for interdisciplinary collaboration across KAUST's diverse research community, engagement in a vibrant international campus community with over 110 nationalities, tailored professional development opportunities in leadership, teaching, and mentoring, and a supportive environment dediacated to the wellbeing and career success of Fellows and their families.

What we offer

• 3 years fixed-term contract (evaluation at the end of Year 2)
• Annual stipend: USD 75,000
• Independent research budget: Up to USD 40,000 per year (discipline-dependent)
• Access to unparalleled laboratory and research facilities
• Comprehensive career and professional development opportunities
• Full benefits package, including medical insurance, housing (based on family status), schooling for up to 2 children, daycare subsidy for children under 4 years, relocation support and annual travel allowance

About KAUST

Located on the shores of the Red Sea in Saudi Arabia, King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST) is home to over 110 nationalities, creating a unique, diverse, and collaborative research environment. With internationally competitive salaries, generous research funding, and state-of-the-art facilities, KAUST attracts top faculty, scientists and engineers dedicated to addressing the world's most pressing scientific and technological challenges.

Why KAUST?

• Work with internationally renowned faculty and talented researchers
• Conduct research in one of the world's most advanced scientific environments
• Access exceptional funding and research facilities
• Collaborate with global academic and industrial partners
• Thrive in a supportive and inclusive international community
• Live and work on a beautiful, award-winning campus designed for balance and wellbeing
• KAUST is ranked in Times Higher Education Arab University Rankings 2023

How to Apply

Interested candidates should apply through the online application form available on the KAUST Global Fellowship Program website:

Online Info Sessions for Prospective Candidates

Join our upcoming online info session to learn more about the fellowship, eligibility, and application process. Details and registration are available on the program website.

Session 1

Date: Monday, September 22, 2025

Time: 12:00pm AST / 10:00 BST / 11:00 CEST / 17:00 SGT / 19:00 AEST / 05:00 EDT / 02:00 PDT

Register here (best suited to audiences in Europe, Africa, Asia, Oceania)

Session 2

Date: Monday, September 22, 2025

Time: 19:00 AST / 17:00 BST / 18:00 CEST / 00.00 (+1) SGT / 02:00 (+1) AEST / 12:00 EDT / 09:00 PDT

Register here (best suited to audiences in North/ Central/ South America and Europe)

Eligibility Requirements

• Ph.D. in a discipline related to KAUST's research priorities
• Up to 4 years of post-PhD experience (Ph.D. awarded after January 2022)
• Demonstrated strong communication skills and fluency in English
• Submission of an innovative research proposal aligned with KAUST priorities
• Support letter from a KAUST faculty host