Postdoctoral Startup Fellowship Program

Postdoctoral Startup Fellowship Program



Overview:

KFUPM’s Postdoctoral Startup Fellowship Program is a groundbreaking initiative designed to attract and empower exceptional postdoctoral researchers who are at the forefront of innovation. This unique program specifically targets PhD graduates who have already founded, or are actively developing, new startup ventures with high potential.

Recognizing the critical link between cutting-edge research and successful commercialization, this fellowship offers a comprehensive ecosystem of support. It provides more than just a traditional academic appointment; it offers a dual pathway that seamlessly integrates rigorous academic research with the practical demands of entrepreneurial development.

Fellows will benefit from KFUPM's world-class R&D infrastructure and Dharan Techno Valley’s (DTV) innovation ecosystem.

Eligibility Requirements:

To apply for the Fellowship, applicants must meet the following criteria:

  • Completed a PhD in science, engineering or business within the last three years (exceptional circumstances may be considered)
  • Applicants must hold a Ph.D. from a reputable university
  • Existing early stage hard-tech startup or actively developing a new venture demonstrated through a well-defined business plan
  • Excellent academic and research record
  • Pass a two-stage evaluation process conducted by Dhahran Techno Valley and the relevant research center.
  • Secure research support from a KFUPM relevant research center.
Program Benefits:

  • USD 48,000 annual salary
  • USD 32,000 in milestone-based startup equity funding. Funding will be a milestone-based budget, disbursed into tranches according to the progress of the startup.
  • Housing allowance equivalent to 3 months’ salary
  • Campus medical services
  • Opportunity for follow-on investment
  • Access to specialized infrastructure
  • Startup incubation and access to KFUPM/DTV innovation ecosystem
  • Other benefits & resources
Program Duration:

The postdoctoral startup fellowship is typically offered for 24 months, with a possible extension up to 48 months. The effective duration is subject to contractual terms, program joining date, and KFUPM's annual contract renewal policy.

Commitment and Expectations:

Postdoc startup fellows are expected to manage their time equally between a designated research center and DTV’s venture builder.

Postdoc startup fellows are encouraged to leverage their research expertise in advancing their startups and are also encouraged to collaborate with other KFUPM researchers to support their venture development effort.

Application and Selection Process

Applicants are required to complete an online application form which will be assessed for eligibility and alignment with the program. Eligible candidates will need to submit proof of their academic standing and accomplishments, as well as an investor-style pitch articulating their proposed business or product concept with explaining how the Fellowship will catalyze their commercialization success.

Both DTV and KFUPM will conduct a comprehensive evaluation during this stage to ensure complete alignment with the university’s research, innovation and commercialization goals.

 

Coming Soon
Contact Information

For more inquiry about the program, contact us via the email psf@kfupm.edu.sa