Entrepreneurial Talent Cultivation
We nurture world-class entrepreneurial talent within KFUPM and the Dhahran area through fellowships, challenges, and training programs designed to equip participants with the mindset and skills to launch and grow ventures.
Postdoctoral Startup Fellowship Program
Translate your research into an investable venture!
Dhahran Techno Valley (DTV) has partnered with King Fahd University of Petroleum & Minerals (KFUPM) to create a unique Postdoctoral Startup Fellowship Program designed for exceptional PhD graduates who have already founded, or are actively developing, high-potential ventures.
This is more than a typical academic fellowship. The program offers a dual pathway that seamlessly merges advanced research with hands-on venture building and entrepreneurial development. Fellows will tap into KFUPM's state-of-the-art R&D infrastructure and the robust innovation ecosystem of Dharan Techno Valley, giving the resources and support a startup needs to thrive.
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 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.
Program Benefits:
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USD 48,000 annual salary (no income tax)
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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.
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Housing allowance equivalent to 3 months’ salary
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Campus medical services
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Opportunity for follow-on investment
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Access to specialized infrastructure
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Startup incubation and access to KFUPM/DTV innovation ecosystem
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Other benefits & resources
Commitment
& 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
Student Founder Fellowship, Venture Craft Challenge, and more.
Get Involved
Are you a founder, researcher, or startup team ready to scale your idea?
Apply now or contact us at ventures@dtvc.com.sa to explore opportunities.