Postdoctoral Research Associate - College of Arts and Sciences - International Studies

American University of Sharjah; Sharjah; On-site; AED 60,000 - 100,000; Full time

Job summary

An established academic institution is seeking a Postdoctoral Research Associate to support vital research on expatriate students in the UAE. This role offers a unique opportunity to engage in interdisciplinary studies focusing on migration and education, contributing to significant academic and policy discussions. The successful candidate will collaborate closely with the Principal Investigator, utilizing mixed-method research approaches to explore the experiences of expatriate university students. This position promises not only professional growth but also the chance to make a meaningful impact in the field of sociology and education.

Qualifications

• Demonstrated experience with mixed-method research design.
• Strong academic background in educational sociology and transnationalism.

Responsibilities

• Collaborate with the PI to design and conduct research activities.
• Assist in organizing in-depth interviews and survey development.

Skills

Mixed-method research design

Statistical software (SPSS, STATA)

Qualitative analysis tools (MAXQDA, NVivo)

Academic writing

Communication skills

Organizational skills

Education

Ph.D. in Sociology

Ph.D. in Education

Ph.D. in Migration Studies

Tools

SPSS

STATA

MAXQDA

NVivo

Job description

Position Summary

The Postdoctoral Research Associate will support ongoing research on expatriate students in the UAE. Working closely with the Principal Investigator (PI), Dr. Gokhan Savas, Associate Professor of Sociology, the Postdoctoral Associate will contribute to data collection, analysis, and coordination of research activities for the project focused on exploring the lived experiences and identity formation of expatriate university students in the UAE. This 12-month position, starting in mid-August 2025, offers a unique opportunity to engage in interdisciplinary research in transnationalism, migration, and education studies, with meaningful academic and policy relevance.

Job Responsibilities

• Collaborate with the PI and research team to design and conduct both qualitative and quantitative research activities.
• Assist in organizing and conducting in-depth interviews with expatriate university students, and contribute to survey development and administration.
• Utilize statistical software (e.g., SPSS or STATA) and qualitative analysis tools (e.g., MAXQDA or NVivo) for data analysis and interpretation.
• Support the writing of academic publications, policy briefs, and presentations for regional and international conferences.
• Help manage project timelines, documentation, and reporting processes.
• Contribute to the coordination of workshops and outreach activities with educational institutions in the UAE.
• Provide mentorship and research support to Graduate Research Assistants (GRAs) involved in the project.
  
  

Qualifications And Skills Required

• Ph.D. in Sociology, Education, Migration Studies, or a related field from an accredited institution.
• Strong academic background in educational sociology, transnationalism, identity studies, or expatriate/migrant communities.
• Demonstrated experience with mixed-method research design, including interviews, surveys, and data integration.
• Proficiency in using major statistical software packages and qualitative coding tools.
• Evidence of scholarly writing and peer-reviewed publications.
• Excellent communication and organizational skills, with the ability to work independently.
  
  

Preferred Qualifications And Skills

• Prior research experience related to expatriate communities, student mobility, or migration in the Gulf or broader MENA region.
• Experience mentoring students and managing field research logistics.
• Proven track record of scholarly publications in peer-reviewed journals.
  
  

How To Apply

• Interested applicants should fill out the form.
• AUS alumni are encouraged to apply. Applicants who do not meet specified requirements will not be shortlisted. Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.
• AUS is an equal opportunity employer. We adhere to a policy of making employment decisions without regard to race, color, age, gender, religion, national origin, disability or marital status. Opportunities for employment are based solely upon one’s qualifications.
• You are welcome to contact Dr. Gokhan Savas at [e-mail] with any questions about the position.