Research Associate jobs in United Arab Emirates

The Center for Astrophysics and Space Science (CASS) at NYUAD is looking to appoint new independent fellows working in one (or more) of the following center's research fields

• Extrasolar Planets
• Galactic Astrophysics (including compact objects)
• Extragalactic Astrophysics and Cosmology
• Astroparticle Physics (Dark Matter searches, gamma-ray spectroscopy, gravitational waves)

The center currently consists of eight faculty members and more than 25 researchers and PhD students.

The Center possesses the unique possibility to investigate fundamental questions in astrophysics, astroparticle physics, and planetary physics from several points of view, with the expertise of its members ranging from collecting and analyzing state-of-the-art data on the nature of the visible and invisible matter in the Universe, to detailed theoretical and numerical studies from planets to galaxies, and linking them together cohesively.

We expect successful applicants to work towards improving the collaborations and connections among the different areas. We invite applicants to visit our website to learn more about current research projects at CASS.

The center fellows will have access to a 70,000-core Infiniband Cluster (Jubail) dedicated to the science division, several GPU-based clusters at NYUAD, and other supercomputer facilities through the CASS network. NYUAD also has guaranteed observing time on the Green Bank Telescope, the Very Long Baseline Array, and Las Cumbres Observatory, and is a participant in SDSS-V.

Applicants should have a PhD in astronomy, astrophysics, physics, or a closely related field. The appointment will be for an initial period of two years with a likely extension to a total of three years. CASS fellows will have dedicated funds for traveling, computing, publications, etc.

The preferred starting date is Fall of 2026.

Applicants need to submit a cover letter, curriculum vitae, publication list, and a brief (ideally 2-3 pages) statement of research interests, transcript and three letters of recommendation. Applicants are strongly encouraged to outline in their research statement how they plan to help create connections between the different research areas of the CASS.

Applications received before November 30, 2025, will receive full consideration, positions will stay open until filled. If you have any questions, please e-mail Prof. Andrea V. Macci (Center director) maccio@nyu.edu

The terms of employment include a very competitive salary, housing allowance, medical insurance, educational subsidies for children, and other benefits. Please note that the UAE does not levy income tax.

nyuad.nyu.edu/en/

NYU Abu Dhabi is the first comprehensive liberal arts and research campus in the Middle East to be operated abroad by a major American research university. Times Higher Education ranks NYU among the top 30 universities in the world, making NYU Abu Dhabi the highest-ranked university in the UAE and MENA region. NYU Abu Dhabi has integrated a highly selective undergraduate curriculum across the disciplines with a world center for advanced research and scholarship. The university enables its students in the sciences, engineering, social sciences, humanities, and arts to succeed in an increasingly interdependent world and advance cooperation and progress on humanity s shared challenges. NYU Abu Dhabi s high-achieving students have come from over 120 countries and speak over 100 languages. Together, NYU's campuses in New York, Abu Dhabi, and Shanghai form the backbone of a unique global university, giving faculty and students opportunities to experience varied learning environments and immersion in other cultures at one or more of the numerous study-abroad sites NYU maintains on six continents.

NYUAD is committed to upholding a culture of non-discrimination, anti-harassment, dignity, and mutual respect; providing equal access and opportunity; and fostering academic excellence in learning, research, and teaching.