Post-doctoral Associate – Materials for Petroleum Applications Job Vacancy in UAE Abdu Dhabi
New York University Abu Dhabi’s Smart Materials Lab (SML) and Center for Smart Engineering Materials (CSEM) are seeking a Post-doctoral Associate with a strong background in materials or chemical sciences related to the oil and gas industry. This opportunity is ideal for candidates with academic or industrial experience in chemical analysis, characterization, and engineering of petroleum-related materials.
Job Location: Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
Job Industry: Higher Education / Energy Research
Job Function: Chemical & Materials Engineering Research
Salary: Competitive with full benefits
Gender: Any
Candidate Nationality: Any
Candidate Current Location: Any
Job Type: Full-time
What Does a Post-doctoral Associate in Petroleum Materials Do?
This role involves conducting hands-on experimental research in materials chemistry with direct application to petroleum systems. The associate will use a range of analytical and characterization methods while also supporting training, supervision, and reporting within the lab. The position is part of NYUAD’s Kawader program and includes both applied and fundamental materials research for energy and engineering applications.
What Are the Key Responsibilities?
- Conduct chemical and physical characterization of organic and petroleum-related materials
- Perform analytical and spectroscopic testing using laboratory instrumentation
- Collaborate on research topics assigned by the group or center leadership
- Assist in writing reports, publishing research, and contributing to grant applications
- Attend and present in SML and CSEM group meetings
- Supervise and train students and junior researchers in lab techniques and equipment
- Maintain records of experimental results for presentations, publications, and sponsors
- Ensure safe and effective use of lab facilities and contribute to method development
What Skills Are Required for a Post-doctoral Researcher in Abu Dhabi?
Education:
- PhD in Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, Materials Science, or a related field
Experience:
- Academic or industrial experience in oil and gas chemistry or material characterization
- Familiarity with spectroscopy, microscopy, mechanical testing, and physicochemical analysis
- Previous work with petroleum materials, polymers, or composites is advantageous
- Experience in research supervision or lab management is preferred
Skills:
- Hands-on ability to operate lab instruments for analytical testing
- Strong organizational and data reporting skills
- Ability to train others in laboratory and characterization techniques
- Excellent communication and collaboration skills within research teams
What Benefits Come with This Position?
- Competitive tax-free salary and benefits package
- Housing allowance and education subsidies if eligible
- Research support and training through the Kawader program
- Access to NYUAD’s advanced labs and core technology platforms
- Collaboration within a multidisciplinary, global academic environment
- Professional development and potential for career progression
About the Company
NYU Abu Dhabi is a leading international research university committed to academic excellence and innovation. The Smart Materials Lab and CSEM are interdisciplinary hubs focused on the development and application of next-generation materials for energy, environmental, and industrial uses.
As part of the Kawader Research Assistantship Program, this position offers a structured pathway for recent PhD graduates to gain advanced research experience and career-building opportunities in a globally competitive environment.
To apply, submit your statement of research interests, CV, full publication list, degree transcript, and three letters of recommendation in PDF format via the official portal. For more details, visit the NYUAD Kawader webpage or contact nyuad.kawader
