Postdoctoral Researcher – Urban Systems & Uncertainty Job Vacancy in UAE Abdu Dhabi
Step into an exciting research role at NYU Abu Dhabi’s Center for Interacting Urban Networks (CITIES), where we are hiring a Postdoctoral Researcher focused on urban systems, decision-making, and uncertainty modeling. This is a unique opportunity to drive cutting-edge computational research that connects theory with real-world urban applications.
Job Location: Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
Job Industry: Higher Education / Research
Job Function: Research & Development
Salary: Negotiable
Gender: Any
Candidate Nationality: Any
Candidate Current Location: Any
Job Type: Full-time
What Does a Postdoctoral Researcher in Urban Systems Do?
This position focuses on conducting advanced research related to uncertainty in urban decision-making processes. Candidates with a background in risk analysis, robust optimization, probabilistic modeling, deep learning for systems, or decision-making under uncertainty are highly encouraged to apply. The goal is to develop both foundational and applied systems capable of managing incomplete or uncertain data in complex urban environments.
You’ll also work closely with researchers focused on Mobility, Fairness, and other interdisciplinary topics to explore synergies across CITIES\' research themes.
What Are the Key Responsibilities?
- Lead and conduct independent research aligned with CITIES\' Uncertainty theme
- Develop computational systems for uncertain data and decision-making in urban contexts
- Collaborate across themes such as Mobility and Fairness within the center
- Translate theoretical models into real-world urban applications
- Prepare high-quality research outputs, including publications and project proposals
- Mentor students and assist in academic collaborations across NYUAD departments
- Engage with academic, industrial, and governmental stakeholders as needed
What Skills Are Needed for a Postdoctoral Researcher in Abu Dhabi?
Education:
- PhD in Computer Science, Urban Science, Data Science, Operations Research, or related fields
Experience:
- Research experience in areas such as uncertainty modeling, robust optimization, probabilistic systems, or risk analytics
- Proven track record of high-quality publications or a dissertation aligned with the research themes
- Ability to lead or co-lead collaborative research projects
- Experience applying foundational research to real-world systems is a plus
Skills:
- Strong analytical and programming capabilities
- Excellent communication and collaboration skills
- Familiarity with urban decision systems and data handling tools
- Capability to design and lead new research initiatives
What Perks and Benefits Are Offered?
- Competitive tax-free salary and benefits package
- World-class research infrastructure and funding support
- Opportunity to collaborate within the global NYU network
- Vibrant campus community and lifestyle in Abu Dhabi
- Support for professional development and academic travel
About the Company
New York University Abu Dhabi (NYUAD) is a globally recognized institution offering a rigorous research environment and liberal arts education. The Center for Interacting Urban Networks (CITIES) is one of NYUAD’s premier research hubs, driving impactful interdisciplinary studies across systems like mobility, sustainability, and social fairness.
CITIES is committed to shaping real-world solutions for the urban future by combining academic insight with practical value. Researchers are supported by NYUAD’s world-class faculty, facilities, and its globally integrated network.
Apply now to be part of NYUAD’s mission to innovate urban living. For questions, contact: nyuad.cities

Please submit a cover letter, CV, research statement (with project ideas and potential collaborators), and referee contact details. Evaluations begin immediately and continue until the position is filled. Earliest start date is December 1, 2024.