The King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST) is inviting applications for the 2027 Microelectronics Winter Camp (MEWC), a fully funded six-week international research internship taking place from 4 January to 11 February 2027 at the KAUST campus in Saudi Arabia.
Designed for outstanding undergraduate, recent graduate, and master’s students, the program offers participants an opportunity to work on cutting-edge microelectronics research under the supervision of world-renowned faculty. The application deadline is 24 September 2026.
About the KAUST Microelectronics Winter Camp
The Microelectronics Winter Camp is an intensive research internship developed by KAUST’s Computer, Electrical and Mathematical Sciences and Engineering (CEMSE) division. The program aims to strengthen participants’ technical expertise while exposing them to innovative research environments and advanced engineering technologies.
Over six weeks, selected interns become active members of faculty-led research teams, contributing to projects that address real-world challenges in electronics, energy, healthcare, smart systems, and next-generation computing.
Beyond laboratory research, the internship combines technical workshops, professional development sessions, prototype design, and networking activities to create a comprehensive academic experience.
Internship Duration and Location
The 2027 edition of MEWC will run for six weeks according to the following schedule:
| Programme | Details |
|---|---|
| Host institution | King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST) |
| Location | KAUST Campus, Saudi Arabia |
| Duration | 6 weeks |
| Dates | 4 January – 11 February 2027 |
| Funding | Fully sponsored |
| Application deadline | 24 September 2026 |
What Participants Will Experience
MEWC is structured to provide both practical research experience and professional skills development. Interns work alongside leading researchers while gaining exposure to emerging technologies shaping the future of microelectronics.
Key activities include:
- Faculty-supervised research projects in advanced electronics
- Hands-on training in integrated circuit (IC) technologies
- Workshops on inkjet printing and 3D printing
- Research involving self-assembly and modern fabrication techniques
- Design and development of a functional gadget prototype
- Research communication and e-poster training
- Final e-poster competition
- Social, cultural, and networking events with the KAUST community
This multidisciplinary approach enables students to transform theoretical knowledge into practical engineering solutions.
Fully Funded Benefits
KAUST provides comprehensive financial and logistical support, allowing participants to focus entirely on their research experience.
Selected interns will receive:
- A stipend covering living expenses
- Free accommodation on the KAUST campus
- Visa and travel logistics support
- Access to world-class laboratories and research facilities
- Mentorship from internationally recognized faculty
- A certificate of successful completion
The fully funded package makes the internship accessible to talented students from around the world.
Research Areas and Faculty Mentors
Participants are matched with distinguished faculty members conducting pioneering research across electrical engineering, computer engineering, and computer science.
Hosting faculty include:
- Abdulrahman Alhamed
- Ahmed Eltawil
- Atif Shamim
- Nazek El-Atab
- Suhaib Fahmy
- Jian Weng
- Yating Wan
- Wedyan Babatain
- Xiaohang Li
Students collaborate directly with these researchers while contributing to innovative laboratory projects.
Examples of Previous Research Projects
Previous MEWC participants have worked on impactful interdisciplinary projects, including:
- Power comparison of wind turbine technologies
- EcoStream smart shower water conservation system
- 3D-printed carbon-based wearable sensors
- Laser-scribed graphene electrodes for dopamine detection
- AI-powered optimization using on-chip quantum dot lasers
These projects demonstrate the program’s emphasis on solving practical engineering and sustainability challenges through advanced microelectronics research.
Who Can Apply?
KAUST welcomes highly motivated applicants with strong academic records and an interest in research.
Eligible candidates include:
- Recent graduates in relevant disciplines
- Senior undergraduate students
- Current master’s students
- Students in electrical engineering, computer engineering, electronics, computer science, and closely related fields
Applicants must also meet the following requirements:
- Minimum cumulative GPA of 3.5/4.0
- Strong English language proficiency
- Demonstrated motivation for research and innovation
Required Application Documents
Applicants must submit a complete application package before the deadline. Required documents include:
- Updated curriculum vitae (CV)
- Official academic transcripts in English
- Passport copy for international applicants
- National ID for Saudi applicants
- Successful completion of interviews with KAUST faculty and administration
Incomplete applications may not be considered during the selection process.
Why Students Should Consider MEWC
The KAUST Microelectronics Winter Camp provides considerably more than a traditional internship. Participants gain experience in internationally recognized laboratories, build professional relationships with leading academics, and develop practical skills in emerging technologies that are highly valued across academia and industry.
The combination of fully funded support, advanced research facilities, intensive technical training, and mentorship makes MEWC one of the region’s most competitive winter research opportunities for aspiring engineers and technology researchers.
Students seeking graduate research experience, international exposure, and hands-on innovation in microelectronics are encouraged to submit their applications before 24 September 2026.
