Full Time Research Assistant (Expected to undertake a PhD)

Uowdubai; Dubai; On-site; AED 100,000 - 130,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Visa and comprehensive medical insurance

25 working days annual leave

End-of-service benefits

Supportive work environment

Job summary

The University of Wollongong in Dubai (UOWD) is inviting applications for a Full Time Research Assistant. This position will support a funded Dubai RDI research project within the School of Engineering and requires candidates to be enrolled or willing to enroll in a Dubai-based PhD program.

Successful applicants will contribute to key research activities including life-cycle assessments and techno-economic analyses.

Benefits include medical insurance, annual leave, and an inclusive work environment.

Qualifications

• Minimum four-year Bachelor’s degree in Civil Engineering or related discipline, with a strong academic record.
• Demonstrated knowledge of construction materials and sustainability concepts.
• Strong analytical, modeling skills, with the ability to work independently.

Responsibilities

• Conduct life-cycle assessment (LCA) of engineered-wood products.
• Develop techno-economic blueprints for manufacturing facilities.
• Draft journal manuscripts and project documentation.

Skills

Analytical skills

Modeling skills

Problem-solving skills

English communication skills

Knowledge of construction materials

Experience in timber engineering

Experience with sustainability assessment

Experience in supply-chain analysis

Education

Bachelor’s degree or postgraduate degree in Civil Engineering

Job description

UOWD10708 - Full Time Research Assistant (Expected to undertake a PhD)

Business Unit

Job Family

Not Applicable

Department

Research and Graduate Studies

Contract Type

Limited Contract Full Time

Location

Dubai

About UOWD

The University of Wollongong in Dubai (UOWD) invites applications for a Research Assistant position to work on a funded Dubai RDI research project within the School of Engineering.

Applicants must intend to enrol, or be in the process of enrolling, in a Dubai based PhD program from the University of Wollongong (Australia), the Dubai Program. This is a University of Wollongong Australia program where students have supervisors in both the UAE and Australia, are can spend time both in the UAE and Australia during their studies.

As the underlying appointment as a Full Time Research Assistant is at the University of Wollongong in Dubai, it is anticipated that the research assistant will spend the majority of the project in Dubai.

This position is project-based and is linked directly to the approved scope, milestones, and funding conditions of the external grant. The research project (research question) is predefined by the funder (below). A scholarship for the PhD will be awarded to the successful applicant, an addition to a salary.

About the Research Project

The PhD research forms part of an externally funded project focused on the sustainability, techno-economic feasibility, and supply-chain development of novel engineered-wood products.

The successful candidate will contribute to research activities including life-cycle assessment (LCA), supply-chain modelling, techno-economic analysis, and the preparation of manuscripts and technical documentation, while completing a doctoral thesis aligned with the project objectives.

The PhD candidate will work under the supervision of the Principal Investigator, in collaboration with co-investigators and a postdoctoral researcher.

Key Responsibilities

• Conduct life-cycle assessment (LCA) of novel engineered-wood products.
• Develop a techno-economic blueprint for a future manufacturing facility.
• Integrate cost, carbon, and risk data into a multi-criteria decision and investment framework.
• Draft journal manuscripts, technical reports, and project documentation.
• Participate in project meetings, progress reporting, and research dissemination activities.
• Ensure compliance with research ethics, data governance, and funding requirements.

Candidate Profile

• A minimum four-year Bachelor’s degree or postgraduate degree in Civil Engineering or a closely related discipline, with a strong academic record.
• Demonstrated knowledge of construction materials, sustainability concepts, or engineering processes.
• Strong analytical, modelling, and problem-solving skills.
• Excellent written and spoken English communication skills.
• Ability to work independently while contributing effectively within a research team.
• Alignment with UOWD values: Passion, Courage, Integrity, Excellence, Collaboration, and Creativity.
• Experience in timber engineering or engineered-wood systems.
• Experience with sustainability assessment, supply-chain analysis, or techno-economic modelling.

To be eligible for appointment, candidates must:

• Be currently enrolled, or
• Have submitted an application for enrollment, or
• Be willing to enroll in a Dubai based PhD program from the University of Wollongong (Australia), the Dubai Program.

Applicants must provide evidence of their PhD application such as:

• Confirmation of submission email/receipt
• Formal correspondence with UOW Australia regarding PhD enrolment

Candidates who do not meet this requirement, following interview, will not be appointed.

Evidence of research capability (e.g. thesis, publications, technical reports, or academic projects).

Why Join UOWD?

Conduct doctoral research within a funded, high-impact engineering project.

Receive structured supervision and work alongside postdoctoral and academic researchers.

Be part of a globally recognised Australian university network.

Gain international research experience in Dubai while enrolled at UOW Australia.

Employee Benefits:

• Visa and comprehensive medical insurance for self
• 25 working days annual leave and public holidays
• End-of-service benefits and gratuity in line with UAE Labor Law and institutional policy
• Supportive and inclusive work environment

UOWD is an equal opportunity employer that attracts, develops, motivates, empowers, and retains a diverse workforce.