For 15 years, King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST) has been a driving force in empowering women in science, research, and innovation.
Since its founding in 2009, the university has nurtured female scientists, entrepreneurs, and leaders, equipping them with the knowledge and skills to make a global impact.
Today, many of these women hold key positions in academia, government, and business sectors, while others have launched tech startups, attracting investment and fostering innovation in Saudi Arabia.
Empowering Women in Science at KAUST
KAUST has strengthened its commitment to advancing science and technology through initiatives that support female talent and research excellence. Some of the key programs include:
KAUST Gifted Student Program (KGSP): A fully funded scholarship program that supports talented Saudi students, including 166 female scholars studying at top U.S. universities.
Ibn Rushd Postdoctoral Fellowship: A program designed to attract and train Saudi researchers abroad, preparing them for faculty roles within the Kingdom.
KAUST Entrepreneurship Center: A hub dedicated to nurturing innovative ideas and fostering a thriving innovation ecosystem in Saudi Arabia.
One of the university’s inspiring success stories is Professor Neveen Khashab, a leading scientist at KAUST. She has played a pivotal role in scientific breakthroughs, mentoring the next generation of female scientists, and supporting talented women in science, both Saudi and international.
Her work has contributed to turning scientific research into real-world solutions, training future leaders, and fostering ambitious ideas.