STEM Internships (Visiting Student Research Program)

From November 1st, 2024, to April 29th, 2025, I had the opportunity to conduct a research internship at King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST), where I worked in one of the leading laboratories in the field of membrane science. My research focused on pervaporative water desalination, specifically involving the fabrication of membranes via interfacial polymerization.

During the internship, I explored various fabrication methods to optimize membrane performance for desalination applications. This hands-on experience taught me not only advanced laboratory techniques but also the importance of critical thinking and patience, as some membranes yielded successful results while others did not. These outcomes pushed me to engage more deeply in literature review and analytical evaluation, enhancing my understanding of membrane materials and their behavior under different fabrication conditions.

Overall, this experience was extremely valuable for my academic and professional growth. Working in a top-tier research environment strengthened my passion for membrane technology and will significantly contribute to my future PhD applications and research trajectory.

My internship at KAUST was a truly rewarding experience. I had the opportunity to work closely with a highly reputable professor in his field and collaborate on projects with outstanding students who had already achieved significant success, including publications in respected conferences and journals. Beyond the academic aspect, the program organizes various trips that are a fantastic way to meet fellow interns, enjoy new experiences, and explore the local culture, which is both rich and fascinating. The campus itself is exceptional, offering excellent sports facilities for football, volleyball, tennis, a well-equipped gym, etc. All of these facilities are completely free to use. Accommodation is very comfortable, with each participant provided a private room equipped with everything needed. Additionally, the scholarship provides enough financial support to explore new activities, travel, and even save by the end of your stay. I highly recommend this program to anyone seeking both academic growth and a unique cultural experience.

When first I arrived here, I thought I would feel completely alone because I didn't know anything. I couldn't have been more wrong. This time has been so special for me. I am enjoying each day in the lab and having fun with my friends at the same time. I am learning a new language (some words) hahaha, trying new food, visiting new places and meeting new people. Thanks for the opportunity and the effort you are making to give us one of the best experiences in our lives. All my friends know about KAUST now.

I had the incredible opportunity to complete an internship at King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST), and it was one of the most enriching and inspiring experiences of my academic journey.

1. Research Work:
I joined the Prof Dr Rueping group under the supervision of Dr Renn, where I worked on the development of nanobody-based LFA for detecting Lyme disease. Access to state-of-the-art facilities and cutting-edge equipment allowed me to conduct high-level experiments and develop valuable technical skills. KAUST’s collaborative environment and emphasis on innovation provided the perfect setting for impactful research.

2. International Environment:
KAUST is a truly global community, bringing together researchers from diverse backgrounds. Interacting with peers and professors from around the world broadened my perspective.

3. Campus Life and Infrastructure:
The university’s campus is a modern, well-designed hub for both work and leisure. From high-tech labs and libraries to recreational facilities and scenic coastal views, KAUST offers an exceptional quality of life, which made my stay both productive and enjoyable.

Overall, this internship not only strengthened my technical and analytical skills but also motivated me to pursue further research in my field. I am deeply grateful to my supervisor, colleagues, and the KAUST community for their support and for providing such a dynamic and stimulating environment. I highly recommend KAUST to anyone seeking world-class research opportunities in a vibrant, international setting!

Regarding research experience, KAUST have top laboratories and facilities to which every student has access. There is a large amount of equipment that you can be trained to use on your own. And you don't have to worry about anything else because is already covered: housing, transportation, and allowance. On the other hand, as a VSRP student, you can participate in a lot of activities and trips covered by the institution, and get to know more about Saudi Arabia. Also, everything you could need is inside the campus

Kaust has been one of the best experiences in my life, I had the opportunity to meet amazing people and do passionate research with the best professor at the best facilities.

Everything was very organized and Il felt completely save. They assigned me great roomies in a comfortable house.

One of the most important things was that Saudi Arabia received me with the highest respect for my culture.

This is an experience worth living, I felt at home.
The stipend they give is more than enough to live comfortably

KAUST's internship program is absolutely incredible! It really is a university that cares about its students' education and well-being. The accommodation provided is wonderful, as is the infrastructure of the campus and laboratories. Saudi Arabia is a very beautiful and welcoming country. Campus security is extremely well organized. The medical insurance meets all the criteria.
I am enjoying my experience here much more than I imagined and I certainly plan to come back and recommend it to everyone!

An incredible opportunity to join a world-class research lab at KAUST and explore Saudi Arabia! The VSRP program offers amazing facilities, nice lab mentors, inspiring mentorship, and a cool-vibrant international community. I really highly recommend it to anyone seeking hands-on research experience, networking with people from around the globe, and participating in exciting cultural and outdoor activities in a stunning Red Sea setting. A truly unforgettable experience for all ages and backgrounds!