Research Scientist - Nonlinear Mechanics

New York University; Al Ruways Industrial City; On-site; AED 26,000 - 38,000; Full time

Job summary

NewYork University Abu Dhabi seeks an experienced Research Scientist to conduct original research and publish high-quality findings in the Laboratory of Applied Nonlinear Dynamics. The role focuses on nonlinear mechanics, applied dynamics, and data-driven modeling, with emphasis on both computational and experimental work.

The ideal candidate will design experiments, develop numerical models, and contribute to proposals while mentoring students and supporting lab operations.

Qualifications

• PhD in Mechanical Engineering or closely related discipline
• Minimum five years of relevant research experience
• Extensive record of research publications in recognized journals or conferences

Responsibilities

• Conduct independent computational and experimental research in nonlinear mechanics and applied dynamics.
• Develop mathematical and numerical models describing nonlinear structural and mechanical behavior.
• Design experiments to investigate vibration, instability, wave transmission, energy transfer, and coupled systems.
• Apply machine learning techniques to model identification, response prediction, and data analysis.
• Prepare manuscripts for publication and present research outcomes at conferences.

Skills

Nonlinear mechanics

Applied nonlinear dynamics

Computational mechanics

Experimental mechanics

Machine learning

Data-driven modeling

Scientific programming

Finite element analysis

Dynamic system identification

Education

PhD in Mechanical Engineering or related discipline

Job description

Research Scientist – Nonlinear Mechanics
Location: Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
Industry: Higher Education
Function: Research
Experience: Minimum 5 years of relevant research experience
Job Type: Full time

Overview

NewYork University Abu Dhabi is seeking an experienced scientist to conduct original research, publish high‑quality findings, support funding proposals, and contribute to the daily activities of the Laboratory of Applied Nonlinear Dynamics.

Salary

26000-38000 (estimated, please confirm with employer)

Key Responsibilities

• Conduct independent computational and experimental research in nonlinear mechanics and applied dynamics.
• Develop mathematical and numerical models describing nonlinear structural and mechanical behavior.
• Design experiments to investigate vibration, instability, wave transmission, energy transfer, and coupled physical systems.
• Study wave propagation in conventional structures, advanced materials, and mechanical metamaterials.
• Investigate fluid‑structure interactions under steady, transient, oscillatory, or nonlinear loading conditions.
• Apply machine learning techniques to model identification, response prediction, optimization, and experimental data analysis.
• Build, calibrate, and validate computational models using laboratory measurements and published benchmarks.
• Design experimental setups, select instrumentation, and define reliable data‑acquisition procedures.
• Process and interpret sensor, simulation, and experimental datasets using appropriate analytical methods.
• Compare theoretical, computational, and laboratory findings to establish defensible scientific conclusions.
• Identify new research questions and propose creative approaches for investigating complex nonlinear phenomena.
• Prepare manuscripts for publication in respected peer‑reviewed journals and conference proceedings.
• Present research outcomes at academic conferences, technical meetings, workshops, and sponsor briefings.
• Assist faculty with research proposals, technical narratives, preliminary results, budgets, and funding submissions.
• Maintain reproducible research code, laboratory records, datasets, equipment documentation, and operating procedures.
• Support the daily operation of the laboratory, including equipment coordination, safety compliance, and research scheduling.
• Collaborate with faculty members, research scientists, postdoctoral associates, students, technicians, and external partners.
• Mentor junior researchers and students in modeling, experimentation, data interpretation, and scientific writing when required.

Ideal Profile

• PhD in Mechanical Engineering or a closely related engineering discipline.
• Minimum five years of relevant research experience.
• Extensive record of research publications in recognized journals, conference proceedings, or comparable scientific outlets.
• Demonstrated experience in both computational and experimental nonlinear mechanics.
• Strong foundation in dynamics, vibrations, solid mechanics, applied mathematics, or computational engineering.
• Expertise in machine learning, wave propagation, metamaterials, or fluid‑structure interactions is highly desirable.
• Ability to design and execute technically demanding experiments independently.
• Experience developing and validating numerical or analytical models against physical measurements.
• Strong scientific creativity with the ability to formulate original research problems.
• Excellent written and spoken English communication skills.
• Ability to prepare high‑quality manuscripts, research presentations, and funding proposals.
• Capacity to communicate technical findings clearly to academic and sponsor audiences.
• Strong organizational skills with careful attention to research quality, safety, and documentation.
• Ability to contribute effectively within multidisciplinary and multicultural research teams.
• Emirati candidates are encouraged to apply.

Skills Set

• Nonlinear mechanics
• Applied nonlinear dynamics
• Computational mechanics
• Experimental mechanics
• Structural dynamics
• Nonlinear vibrations
• Wave propagation
• Mechanical metamaterials
• Fluid‑structure interaction
• Machine learning
• Data‑driven modeling
• Numerical simulation
• Mathematical modeling
• Model calibration
• Model validation
• Experimental design
• Instrumentation
• Data acquisition
• Signal processing
• Sensor data analysis
• Scientific programming
• Finite element analysis
• Dynamic system identification
• Uncertainty analysis
• Research publication
• Grant proposal development
• Technical presentations
• Laboratory operations
• Research mentoring
• Multidisciplinary collaboration

Why Join Us

This position offers the opportunity to conduct advanced research in a laboratory dedicated to complex mechanical systems and nonlinear phenomena. The successful candidate will combine modeling, experimentation, and machine learning while contributing to research with applications across structures, materials, energy systems, aerospace engineering, and emerging mechanical technologies. NewYork University Abu Dhabi provides access to advanced research infrastructure, international academic networks, and multidisciplinary collaborators. Research staff may also benefit from relocation support, educational assistance for eligible dependents, health and wellness services, professional development, and support for ambitious publication and funding activities.