Program Reviews

I was a VSPR intern at King Abdullah University of Science and Technology in Saudi Arabia in 2021. I was part of a project studying the role of the Envelope protein of SARS-CoV-2 as an ion-channelling viroporin in the Laboratory of Cellular Imaging and Energetics. This experience introduced me to new areas of research in neurobiology and electrophysiology and was very rewarding. Furthermore, the campus provided me with a truly welcoming environment. During my time there, I not only had the privilege of learning from an international audience and esteemed scientists, but I also had the opportunity to explore state-of-the-art technologies and facilities. Additionally, the experience was culturally enriching, thanks to the remarkable diversity of the community. I wholeheartedly recommend this experience to fellow students.

I highly recommend this experience in all aspects. Work facilities, friendly community, many activities to do in your free time, top-notch laboratories, and very good scientists to work with.

KAUST has the ability to find people all over the world who are passionate about their field of knowledge and I met some very good friends there. I was happy, those months passed quickly but I was able to discover new perspectives in the world of science and my internship at KAUST made me consider applying for a PhD. I hope to return soon.

Joining the VSRP has been a rewarding and enlightening experience that has broadened my academic horizons and enriched my understanding of the world of research.This program has offered me an opportunity to engage in meaningful research and immerse myself in a vibrant academic community. I have participated in academic research and managed to conduct my undergraduate project in an active research focused environment. Furthermore the training opportunities that are available are certainly unique, and worth exploring

The housing and amenities offered on campus are of the highest quality, and the community is vibrant. There is a plethora of on-site activities and events for a visitor to enjoy. Furthermore the social events organized by the VSRP coordinators are certainly worth participating in.

All in all, I wholeheartedly recommend joining the VSRP to all parties who are interested in learning in a research focused environment, and are passionate about their studies.

Coming to KAUST was my first time leaving North America and I am incredibly grateful for the friends, memories, and professional experience that it gave me. I got to participate in exciting research with state of the art technology and got certified in using new machinery-- skills that I have used since coming back to the states. In my free time, I got scuba dive certified and traveled to nearby towns with new friends. I saw this internship as a once in a lifetime experience for me and I wish I could've stayed longer!

KAUST as an university is amazing, great people, cool activities, science!!. And since the program is paid by the university one can focus on learning and enjoying the whole experience. But Saudi is a complicated country that can be hostile to certain groups, clearly my experience was different from my female colleagues.

The university is a closed entity from the rest of the country, feeling like an island of western culture in the east. Altough many of the workers are locals, but these tend to be more understanding of the different cultures mixing on campus.

The beach is nice!

The Visiting Students Research Program (VSRP) at King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST) is a unique opportunity for students who are willing to make an impact in the research community.
In particular, the program allows to enjoy the international environment, advanced facilities, and wide set of activities available inside and outside the campus.
I did my VSRP in 2019 and it was a crucial step to get to know the university and apply for the PhD program, which I completed in 2023.

Rating: ★★★★★

My internship at the King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST) was truly transformative. From the moment I arrived at the KAUST campus, I was struck by its beauty and modernity, creating an inspiring atmosphere for my internship.

One of the most outstanding aspects was the access to world-class mentors and researchers who expanded my knowledge and encouraged me to explore new ideas and conduct independent research.

The diverse community at KAUST, comprising fellow interns and researchers from around the world, broadened my horizons and enhanced my ability to work in diverse teams. Professional development opportunities also improved my skills and expanded my professional network.

KAUST's commitment to work-life balance allowed me to be productive while enjoying a fulfilling personal life, even when the whole world was struck with COVID-19 and this was more difficult than ever.

In conclusion, my KAUST internship offered me an exceptional research opportunity, mentorship, a diverse community, and holistic development. I wholeheartedly recommend KAUST to anyone seeking an enriching internship experience. It has set the gold standard for internships, and I will forever cherish the memories and lessons learned during my time here.

This experience have honestly been the best experience of my life so far. I came for an internship and this part of my life will never go away. Every time I think about KAUST, only I only have positive feelings and nice thought about that place. I really miss KAUST and this program has been very fruitful for me. I highly recommend any student that need some experience as a researcher before or after a PhD to do it. It helped me grow and develop some useful skills that I am still using now at during my PhD in Australia. Thank you! Really!

Students experience what it is like to research at a top-tier institute. Socialize with people around the world and learn new things about other cultures. Projects done in internships are indicative of everyday Ph.D. research, with the guidance of experienced professors. The campus is on the coastline, so many water-related activities exist. Buildings and facilities are all state-of-the-art for the field. The university is for graduate students and up, making the student population relatively smaller than other universities, even though the campus area is large. It mainly focuses on STEM-related fields, so check each professor's research area for a suitable match before applying. Consider the period you are coming to properly prepare for the weather (i.e., hotness).