Deadline: January 15, 2023.

The KAUST Global Fellowship Program supports outstanding emerging research leaders and scientists from around the world to build their path towards a fully independent career. The program inspires the young generation of scientists and engineers to explore and address global challenges and opportunities for the benefit of humanity. The program is merit based, targeting excellent postdocs with  breakthrough ideas to complement, support, contribute and advance the major research initiatives of KAUST. In our ‘research-first’  environment, Global Fellows have full access to key research tools, equipment, unparalleled facilities, and expertise surrounded by a  strong community of excellence.

ELIGIBILITY CRITERIA

For an applicant to be eligible for this Fellowship:

• Must be within four years of earning their Ph.D. or have a maximum of four years of post-Ph.D. research experience with a justified career break (see Guide for Applicants or the FAQs);
• Must expect to complete their Ph.D. prior to the start of their Fellowship;
• Must be ready to move in KAUST to undertake their proposed three-year research project*;
• Must have a KAUST faculty member agreeing to host the applicant and support their independent research under this Fellowship, if successful. Applicants will need to include supportive evidence in regard to this agreement between them and the KAUST PI (e.g. Host PI support letter or email confirmation)

People of all nationalities are welcome to apply. They encourage female applications for a better gender balance in science.

*Candidates need to satisfy all Kingdom of Saudi Arabia requirements to obtain resident status.

For a proposal to be eligible under this Fellowship, it should:

• Focus in one or more of the KAUST five Research Pillars: Water, Energy, the Environment, Food & Health, and the Digital domain 
  
• Have a 3-year duration
• Follow the budget and financial guidelines of the call
• Use the templates provided

KAUST Global Fellowship Program is supporting research in line with the programs of KAUST academic divisions; Biological and Environmental Science and Engineering (BESE), Computer, Electrical and Mathematical Science and Engineering (CEMSE), and Physical Science and Engineering (PSE).

BENEFITS

1. Three years of funding: Each proposal receives an independent annual research budget of up to $45,000, along with a yearly living stipend of $75,000 plus benefits including medical insurance, accommodation, schooling, relocation, and travel allowances to focus on your independent research on a full-time basis.
2. Research Facilities: Easy access to research tools, equipment, unparalleled laboratory facilities and expertise working with your host Faculty Primary Investigator (PI) at KAUST. KAUST offers adequate support and opportunities to create impact through your research, whether it leads to a potential new discovery, invention, influential results and/or publications.
3. Personal & Professional Development: Unlimited access to a variety of Learning & Development programs including KAUST Mentoring Program, Harvard Higher Education Teaching Certificate, and Leadership Programs/ Certificates. The Global Fellowship seminar shall also contribute to your personal & professional development with thematic sessions, VIP speakers, workshops, networking opportunities, and shared learning from the other fellows and alumni.
4. Pursuing independed Research: This is a unique opportunity to embark on a new journey, shape your future career trajectory and pursue your dream of being recognized for your research impact and excellence. The program helps you transition towards a competitive independent research career and build your own future career path.
5. A sense of community: KAUST is more than a university, we are a community! We are part of your Fellowship journey in a supportive intellectual environment that enhances your scientific endeavors, personal and professional development. They offer networking opportunities for your career success and an overall culture of innovation, scientific rigor, and workplace joy.
6. A global network: KAUST facilitates the introduction and networking between the KAUST research community and a global set of external organizations operating in academia, industry, government agencies, funding bodies and other external partners towards the development of successful partnerships.

APPLICATION DOCUMENTS

The following documents must be uploaded and submitted with the online application form:

• Most recent CV (max 4 pages)
• Research proposal (template)
• Two publications (links or attachments)
• KAUST Host PI letter (template)
• Two reference letters to be received from referees via email

OFFICIAL LINK