Associate Research Scientist

InsideHigherEd; Abu Dhabi; On-site; AED 180,000 - 240,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading research institution in Abu Dhabi seeks an Associate Research Scientist specializing in geotechnical engineering. The role involves designing and analyzing centrifuge experiments, integrating numerical models, and collaborating within a multidisciplinary team. Candidates should have a PhD in Geotechnical Engineering, at least three years of relevant experience, and proficiency in CAD tools, particularly SolidWorks. The position offers a competitive salary and various benefits, including medical insurance and educational subsidies.

Benefits

Competitive salary

Medical insurance

Housing allowance

Annual home-leave travel

Educational subsidies for children

Qualifications

• PhD in Geotechnical Engineering or related field focusing on centrifuge experimental testing or numerical modeling.
• At least three years of relevant professional experience beyond PhD.
• Background in artificial intelligence applications in geotechnics is a plus.

Responsibilities

• Design, implement, and analyze centrifuge experiments.
• Integrate findings with numerical models for validation.
• Develop innovative experimental apparatus using SolidWorks.
• Disseminate results through high-quality publications.
• Collaborate with multidisciplinary teams.

Skills

Centrifuge experimental testing

Numerical modeling and simulation

CAD Proficiency

Artificial intelligence in geotechnics

Education

PhD in Geotechnical Engineering or related field

Tools

SolidWorks

Job description

About the Position

The Center for Sand Hazards and Opportunities in Resilience, Energy, and Sustainability (SHORES) and the Division of Engineering (Civil & Urban Engineering) seeks an Associate Research Scientist to work on a broader field of geotechnical engineering.

Required Qualifications

• A PhD in Geotechnical Engineering or related field with focus on one or more of the following: centrifuge experimental testing (design, execution and data interpretation); numerical modeling and simulation to complement physical experiments.
• (Preferred) Proficiency in CAD and modeling tools such as SolidWorks for experimental design and apparatus development.
• At least three years of relevant professional experience, not including the years spent obtaining the terminal degree.
• Additional background in artificial intelligence applications in geotechnics, geoenvironmental engineering, geohazards risk assessment or energy geotechnics will be considered an asset.

Research Project

The successful candidate will lead a research project focused on advancing the design, testing, and analysis of resilient and sustainable geotechnical systems using centrifuge modeling. The work will bridge advanced experimental testing with complementary numerical simulation to generate insights for infrastructure and energy applications.

Responsibilities

• Design, implement and analyze centrifuge experiments.
• Integrate findings with numerical models for validation and deeper interpretation.
• Develop innovative experimental apparatus (SolidWorks proficiency is a plus).
• Disseminate results through high-quality publications in reputable journals.
• Collaborate in a multidisciplinary team of faculty, postdocs and students.

Benefits

Highly competitive salary, medical insurance, housing allowance, annual home-leave travel, and educational subsidies for children as well as other benefits.

How to Apply

Applicants need to submit a cover letter, curriculum vitae with full publication list, transcript of degree, statement of research interests and contact information for at least two references, all in PDF format.

Contact

Email Dr. Tarek Abdoun at [e-mail].

Equal‑Opportunity Statement

NYU Abu Dhabi is an equal‑opportunity employer. We welcome applications from all qualified candidates and seek individuals who will contribute to our vibrant, multidisciplinary research and teaching community.