Post-doctoral Associate – Thermal and Mechanical Materials Research Job Vacancy in UAE Abdu Dhabi
The Division of Science at New York University Abu Dhabi invites applications for a fully funded Post-doctoral Associate position focused on thermal and mechanical characterization of smart materials. This research-intensive opportunity is ideal for candidates with a strong background in materials science, physics, mechanical engineering, or chemistry, and a passion for working at the intersection of experimental and modeling research.
Job Location: Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
Job Industry: Higher Education / Scientific Research
Job Function: Materials Science & 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 Smart Materials Research Do?
This role is based in the Smart Materials Lab (Naumov group) and focuses on exploring the effects of temperature on the mechanical behavior of advanced materials. The associate will prepare and test new materials, using experimental and modeling techniques to assess surface and bulk thermal and mechanical properties. You’ll contribute to high-impact research in solid-state physics, chemistry, and engineering, and support group activities including seminars, reports, and mentorship.
What Are the Key Responsibilities?
- Conduct experiments on smart materials to study thermal and mechanical behavior
- Use analytical techniques to characterize material properties
- Perform data processing, analysis, and visualization
- Prepare research findings for scientific publications and conferences
- Collaborate with NYUAD’s Core Technology Platforms for technical training
- Submit regular biweekly research updates and participate in lab seminars
- Mentor undergraduate and intern researchers in the lab
- Support modeling work related to material deformation and response to heat
What Skills Are Required for a Post-doctoral Role in Abu Dhabi?
Education:
- PhD in Mechanical Engineering, Solid-State Physics, Chemistry, or Materials Science
Experience:
- Proven expertise in experimental and/or modeling work related to materials characterization
- Prior work with surface and bulk analysis of solids, including thermal or mechanical testing
- A strong publication record in relevant fields of engineering or science is preferred
Skills:
- Proficiency with lab instrumentation and techniques for material property testing
- Familiarity with modeling tools and software used in thermal-mechanical analysis
- Strong scientific writing, communication, and teamwork skills
- Ability to train junior researchers and collaborate within interdisciplinary teams
What Benefits Come with This Position?
- Fully funded, tax-free salary with housing and education support
- Two-year initial appointment with potential renewal based on performance
- Access to advanced research facilities and technical platforms
- Support for international conference participation and professional development
- Integration into a diverse and collaborative global research network
- Dynamic living and academic environment in Abu Dhabi
About the Company
NYU Abu Dhabi (NYUAD) is a leading research university within the global NYU network, offering an intellectually rich and culturally diverse academic environment. The Smart Materials Lab, led by Prof. Panče Naumov, pioneers innovation in responsive materials and their real-world applications across science and engineering.
As part of NYUAD, researchers benefit from a vibrant ecosystem designed to foster interdisciplinary collaborations and meaningful scientific contributions.
Interested applicants must submit a cover letter, CV with full publication list, statement of research interests, and three reference letters in PDF format through the official application portal. For questions, contact Prof. Panče Naumov at pn21
