Research Assistant, Center for Interacting Urban Networks (CITIES) - Dr. Monica Menendez

Westfield State University; United Arab Emirates; On-site; AED 60,000 - 120,000; Full time

Job summary

Westfield State University is seeking a Research Assistant for the Center for Interacting Urban Networks in Abu Dhabi. This role involves supporting innovative urban research projects, developing digital tools, and engaging with various community stakeholders aimed at improving urban living. Outstanding programming, data analysis skills, and a Master's degree in Computer Science are essential for this dynamic position.

Qualifications

• Master's in Computer Science or Software Engineering is required.
• Strong programming skills in web and mobile development essential.
• Experience with IoT and data visualization necessary.

Responsibilities

• Enhance CITIES Digital Initiatives and build user interfaces.
• Conduct usability testing and coordinate with local stakeholders.
• Mentor undergraduate assistants and organize community events.

Skills

Programming in HTML

JavaScript

React

Data analysis

Visualization

Communication

Stakeholder engagement

Education

Master's degree in Computer Science

Tools

Python

R

Google Charts

WordPress

Job description

Description

Are you passionate about interdisciplinary research, digital innovation, and building technology that improves urban living? The Center for Interacting Urban Networks (CITIES) at NYU Abu Dhabi is seeking a motivated and skilled Research Assistant to help drive the next generation of urban research and community-focused innovation in the UAE.

About the Role

As a Research Assistant, you will support cutting-edge projects in urban science, computational social science, and usability research. You ll work closely with our team of Principal Investigators (PIs) to design and implement data-driven systems, conduct advanced analyses, and promote sustainable and equitable urban living through digital tools such as CITIESair and the CITIES Dashboard. You ll also play a key role in community outreach, engaging with stakeholders across academia, public institutions, and local communities.

What You ll Do

• Enhance and expand CITIES Digital Initiatives (CITIESair and CITIES Dashboard)
• Build user interfaces and web/mobile applications for academic research
• Conduct usability testing, data analysis, and visualization for interdisciplinary studies
• Coordinate with local and regional partners, including schools, government bodies, and NGOs
• Collaborate with other NYUAD research centers on projects related to sustainability and digitalization
• Mentor undergraduate student assistants and support research fellows
• Organize workshops, community events, and help publicize CITIES' research.

What We re Looking For

Required:

• Master s degree in Computer Science or Software Engineering
• Strong programming skills in web and mobile development (e.g., HTML, JavaScript, React)
• Experience with Internet-of-Things (IoT), especially air quality sensor networks
• Data analysis and visualization skills (Python, R, Google Charts, etc.)
• Familiarity with both qualitative and quantitative research methods
• Excellent communication and stakeholder engagement skills

Preferred:

• Training in smart cities or software-enabled sustainability
• Knowledge of WordPress and experience managing student assistants
• Background in community-focused research or civic tech

Why Join CITIES?

CITIES is an interdisciplinary research hub focused on addressing complex urban challenges in the UAE and beyond. By joining our team, you ll be part of a forward-thinking center that combines technology, science, and policy to create real-world impact.

To be considered, all applicants must submit a cover letter, curriculum vitae, transcript of degree, research statement (except for Research Assistant positions, and at least 2 letters of recommendation, all in PDF format.

About NYUAD:

NYU Abu Dhabi is a degree-granting research university with a fully integrated liberal arts and science undergraduate program in the Arts, Sciences, Social Sciences, Humanities, and Engineering. NYU Abu Dhabi, NYU New York, and NYU Shanghai, form the backbone of NYU s global network university, an interconnected network of portal campuses and academic centers across six continents that enable seamless international mobility of students and faculty in their pursuit of academic and scholarly activity. This global university represents a transformative shift in higher education, one in which the intellectual and creative endeavors of academia are shaped and examined through an international and multicultural perspective. As a major intellectual hub at the crossroads of the Arab world, NYUAD serves as a center for scholarly thought, advanced research, knowledge creation, and sharing, through its academic, research, and creative activities.

EOE/AA/Minorities/Females/Vet/Disabled/Sexual Orientation/Gender Identity Employer

UAE Nationals are encouraged to apply.