KAIST InnoCORE Postdoctoral Researcher Recruitment 2026 in South Korea

Applications are now open for the KAIST InnoCORE Research Center Postdoctoral Researcher Recruitment (Track 1). This fully funded program offers excellent opportunities for outstanding early-career researchers to work in cutting-edge science and technology fields at KAIST, one of South Korea’s top research universities.

Selected candidates receive a competitive salary, multi-year contracts, strong research support, and access to world-class facilities and international networks. The recruitment runs on a rolling basis until all positions are filled, with an expected start date from May 2026.  You can check out BS, MS, PhD and postdoc positions here.

Key Details:

• Degree Level: Postdoctoral Researcher
• Host Country: South Korea
• Host Institution: KAIST (Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology)
• Application Deadline: Rolling basis until positions are filled
• Application Fee: None
• Open to: all Nationalities

What This Scholarship Offers

• A competitive annual salary of about KRW 90 million
• Initial contract until December 2026, renewable annually up to a total of 5 years
• Direct employment by KAIST with full-time postdoctoral researcher status
• Access to state-of-the-art research facilities, equipment, and infrastructure
• Opportunities for international collaboration and research exchange
• Multi-mentoring support from leading professors and global partners
• Career development support, including pathways to faculty positions, industry roles, or startups
• A vibrant research environment with strong industry and academic networks

Also Check: OIST Visiting Scholars Program 2027 in Japan (Fully Funded)

Eligibility Criteria

Basic Qualifications

• Must be within 5 years of PhD completion
• Exceptional candidates beyond 5 years may be considered after rigorous internal review

International Applicants

• Must qualify for an E-3 visa (PhD holders or expected graduates are eligible)

General Requirements

• No age or gender restrictions
• Must be eligible for overseas travel
• Korean males must have completed or been exempt from mandatory military service
• Must not have any disqualification under KAIST regulations

Preferred Qualifications

• PhD from or research experience at top overseas universities
• Recent international research experience
• Foreign nationals and international scholars are strongly encouraged to apply

Also Check: British Academy Postdoctoral Fellowship 2026-2027

Programs Available:

The following research centers are recruiting postdoctoral researchers:

• Photonic Artificial Intelligence COmputing REsearch Center (PICORE)
• Regenerative Medical Research Institute (reMRI) for Aging-related Diseases
• T-RAX: Transformative Railway with AX
• 5D AI Robotics Initiative (5D AI-RI)
• Artificial Cell Initiative
• POwer-autonomous Subsea Engineering for Intelligent Data-center Operating Networks (POSEIDON)
• Sustainable Materials Institute for Post-AI Era (SMI-PAI)
• AI Meta-Scientist

Also Check: FIAS Fellowship Programme 2027/2028 in France

How to Apply:

1. Submit your Expression of Interest through the official online form (Check Link Below)
2. Complete the internal review process by the relevant Research Center
3. If shortlisted, submit additional documents including CV, Research Statement, and Recommendation Letters
4. Attend 1–2 rounds of interviews
5. Final selection and appointment follow KAIST procedures

Note: Recruitment is on a rolling basis. Early submission is strongly recommended as positions may close without prior notice.

Contact Information:

• Email: [email protected]
• Telephone: 042-350-2932

This is a fantastic opportunity for motivated researchers seeking fully funded postdoctoral positions in South Korea. Apply now to join KAIST’s innovative research ecosystem.

Also Check: Technical University of Denmark PhD and Postdoc Scholarships 2026 (Fully Funded)