You have an incredible chance to join the 2026 cohort of the AUS Postdoctoral Fellowship Award at the American University of Sharjah (AUS), a unique opportunity designed for outstanding early-career researchers and creative professionals. This prestigious two-year fellowship supports you in pursuing independent, high-impact research across a wide range of disciplines, including sciences, humanities, social sciences, engineering, business, and creative arts. As part of AUS’s vibrant academic community in the UAE, you will contribute to interdisciplinary innovation while benefiting from mentorship, career development, and a supportive research environment.
This fellowship program aims to elevate AUS’s international reputation as a center of academic excellence and to foster scholarly leadership that addresses global and regional challenges. If you are a recent PhD graduate ready to make your mark, this program offers the platform to advance your career and research impact.
About the American University of Sharjah (AUS)
The American University of Sharjah is a prestigious institution recognized globally for its commitment to research excellence and academic innovation. AUS ranks among the top universities in the Middle East and maintains a strong international reputation for its research impact and vibrant interdisciplinary academic community.
The university’s mission emphasizes fostering innovation and collaboration across fields, providing world-class facilities and resources to support scholars. AUS’s commitment to excellence and inclusivity creates an ideal environment for postdoctoral fellows to thrive and contribute meaningfully to their fields.
AUS Postdoctoral Fellowship 2026 Overview
Detail | Information |
Name | AUS Postdoctoral Fellowship Award 2026 |
Offering Institution | American University of Sharjah |
Available Fields | Sciences, Humanities, Social Sciences, Engineering, Business, Creative Arts |
Language of Instruction | English |
Duration | 2 years (full-time) |
Application Deadline | 30 September 2025 |
Number of Positions | Multiple (discipline-diverse) |
Location | Sharjah, United Arab Emirates |
Funding | Fully funded (salary up to AED 20,000/month + benefits including health insurance, airfare, residency fees, annual leave, end-of-service indemnity) |
Eligibility Criteria
- You must hold a PhD or terminal degree awarded within the last three years.
- Demonstrated academic and research excellence with evidence of significant contributions.
- Open to applicants of all nationalities and genders, promoting diversity and inclusivity.
- Applicants who earned their PhD from AUS are ineligible.
- Your proposed research must align with AUS’s strategic priorities and address societal or global challenges.
- You have to 1st secure a commitment from an AUS faculty member, who is willing to act as your supervisor during the fellowship.
Benefits of the AUS Postdoctoral Fellowship
- A competitive salary up to AED 20,000 per month (approx. USD 5,400). You’ll also be getting additional benefits such as health insurance and airfare.
- Housing may be provided free of charge for single fellows, subject to availability.
- Full-time, two-year appointment with annual leave and end-of-service benefits.
- Opportunity to teach one course per academic year (optional).
- Access to world-class research infrastructure and facilities.
- Dedicated faculty mentorship to support your professional and research development.
- Career-enhancing workshops on grant writing, leadership, and teaching skills.
- Being part of a prestigious fellowship cohort that enhances your professional profile and networking opportunities.
- Applicants must deliver a seminar to the AUS community, fostering knowledge sharing and collaborative engagement.
How to Apply for the AUS Postdoctoral Fellowship Award 2026
- Submit your application by 30 September 2025 through the official application portal: Apply Here.
- Prepare the following documents in PDF format:
• Full research proposal (max 3 pages).
• Curriculum Vitae or Creative Resume.
• Letters of support from your AUS faculty supervisor(s).
• Two letters of recommendation. - Ensure your application aligns with all requirements detailed in the application form.
- Contact potential AUS faculty supervisors and secure their commitment before applying. Faculty profiles can be viewed here: AUS Faculty Hub.
Eligible Programs & Fields of Study
The fellowship welcomes applicants working in:
• Business, Science, and Engineering fields focused on innovative solutions to global and regional challenges.
• Social Sciences and Humanities addressing pressing societal, cultural, or historical issues.
• Creative Arts professionals with research-informed and critically engaged work.
Comparison with Similar Fellowships
Scholarship/Fellowship | Institution | Fields Covered | Duration | Funding | Location | Deadline |
AUS Postdoctoral Fellowship 2026 | American University of Sharjah | Sciences, Humanities, Engineering, Business, Creative Arts | 2 years | Salary + benefits | Sharjah, UAE | 30 Sept 2025 |
KAUST Postdoctoral Fellowship | King Abdullah University of Science & Technology | Science & Engineering | 1-3 years | Fully funded | Saudi Arabia | Varies |
NYU Abu Dhabi Postdoctoral Fellowship | New York University Abu Dhabi | Multidisciplinary | 1-2 years | Salary + benefits | Abu Dhabi, UAE | Varies |
FAQs about AUS Postdoctoral Fellowship 2026
- Can I apply if I earned my PhD more than 3 years ago?
No, eligibility requires the degree to be awarded within the last three years. - Is the fellowship open to international applicants?
Yes, applicants of all nationalities are welcome. - Do I need to have a faculty supervisor before applying?
Yes, securing a commitment from an AUS faculty member is mandatory. - Is teaching required during the fellowship?
Teaching up to one course per year is optional. - Are housing accommodations provided?
Housing may be provided free for single fellows depending on availability. - What documents are needed for the application?
Application form, research proposal, CV, letters of support, and two recommendation letters in PDF format. - When will successful candidates be notified?
Award notifications are expected by 7 December 2025. - Is health insurance included?
Yes, this benefit is also a part of overall package. - Can creative professionals apply?
Yes, this fellowship encourages professionals in creative arts with research-based work to apply. - Where can I find more details about AUS research priorities?
Visit AUS Research for strategic priorities and focus areas.
Important Dates & Reminders
Event | Date |
Call for Applications Released | 22 July 2025 |
Application Deadline | 30 September 2025 |
Application Evaluation | 1 Oct – 30 Nov 2025 |
Award Notifications | 7 December 2025 |
Fellowship Start Date | By 15 April 2026 |
Additional Requirements
- Applicants must align their proposed projects with AUS’s strategic research goals.
- PhD graduates from AUS are not eligible for this fellowship.
Don’t miss this exceptional opportunity to join the 2026 AUS Postdoctoral Fellowship cohort. Apply now before the 30 September 2025 deadline and take the next step in your academic career with one of the Middle East’s leading universities. APPLY NOW.
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