Postdoctoral Researcher – Regional Ocean Modeling Job Vacancy in UAE Abdu Dhabi
New York University Abu Dhabi (NYUAD) is inviting applications for a postdoctoral research position in regional ocean modeling. This project aims to explore the variability of water exchange between the Arabian/Persian Gulf and the Sea of Oman, its sensitivity to global environmental changes, and its impact on regional marine biogeochemistry.
Job Location: Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
Job Industry: Higher Education & Research
Job Function: Research & Development
Salary: Competitive
Gender: Any
Key Responsibilities:
- Investigate variability in water exchange between the Gulf and the Sea of Oman and its impact on hydrography and biogeochemistry
- Examine the sensitivity of water exchange to climate change and human activities such as desalination
- Assess the impact of Gulf outflow on the Arabian Sea\'s biogeochemistry
- Utilize in-situ observations, high-resolution satellite data, and numerical simulations to address key research questions
- Develop and implement simulations using the Regional Ocean Modeling System (ROMS) at submesoscale-eddy resolving resolution
- Collaborate closely with researchers at the Mubadala Arabian Center for Climate and Environmental Sciences (MACCESS)
- Contribute to high-impact publications and present research findings at conferences
Required Skills and Experience:
Education:
- A PhD in geophysical fluid dynamics, oceanography, applied mathematics, or a related field
Experience:
- Strong background in ocean modeling and geophysical fluid dynamics
- Prior experience with ROMS or similar ocean circulation models is preferred
- Knowledge of marine biogeochemistry is desirable but not required
Skills:
- Proficiency in numerical modeling and computational techniques
- Strong analytical and problem-solving skills
- Ability to conduct independent research and contribute to collaborative projects
- Excellent scientific writing and communication abilities
- Demonstrated creativity and scientific maturity in shaping research directions
What We Offer:
- A two-year appointment with a six-month probation period (renewable based on performance)
- Highly competitive salary and housing allowance
- Research funding for travel, equipment, and publications
- Access to NYUAD’s advanced research facilities, including an HPC cluster with ~30,000 computing cores and 34 GPU nodes
- The opportunity to contribute to leading research in climate and environmental sciences
Application Process:
Interested candidates must submit the following materials via Interfolio (in PDF format):
- Cover letter
- Curriculum vitae
- Transcript of degree
- At least three letters of recommendation
- A statement of research accomplishments and interests, highlighting contributions to MACCESS
The position may start as early as September 2025, and applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis until filled.
For inquiries, please contact Prof. Francesco Paparella at francesco.paparella

About the Company
NYU Abu Dhabi (NYUAD) is a globally recognized research institution offering an integrated liberal arts and science education. As part of New York University’s global network, NYUAD fosters international collaboration and interdisciplinary research across diverse academic fields. Situated at the crossroads of the Arab world, NYUAD is dedicated to advancing knowledge and innovation, providing faculty and students with exceptional resources and opportunities for transformative research and scholarship.
UAE Nationals are encouraged to apply.