Research Assistant – Arts and Creative Practices Job Vacancy in UAE Abdu Dhabi
The Arts and Humanities Division at New York University Abu Dhabi is seeking a research assistant to support the artistic and academic initiatives of Professor Joanna Settle, Associate Dean of Arts and Creative Practices and Arts Professor of Theater.
Job Location: Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
Job Industry: Higher Education and Research
Job Function: Arts, Creative Practices, and Research
Salary: Competitive
Gender: Any
Key Responsibilities:
- Assist in the development and coordination of creative and research projects related to performance, visual arts, and curation
- Contribute to research planning, grant applications, and project development
- Support Professor Settle’s classes and gain insight into arts pedagogy
- Oversee and collaborate with undergraduate and graduate research assistants
- Conduct research (library, online, and material-based) on relevant artistic topics
- Manage scheduling, correspondence, and logistical coordination for projects
- Attend biennials, creative convenings, and arts-related events as required
- Maintain Professor Settle’s inter-project and institutional calendar
- Contribute to artistic projects through independent and collaborative work
Required Skills and Experience
Education:
- BA or BFA in an arts practice field or equivalent experience
Experience:
- Demonstrated experience as a visual or performance artist
- Strong ability to contribute to collaborative artistic work
- Familiarity with Mac computers, Microsoft Excel, and Word
- Previous participation in highly selective fellowships is a plus
- Experience in live performance is an advantage
Deliverables:
- Artist talk (45-minute presentation with 15-minute Q&A)
- Development of artistic works independently or in collaboration with Professor Settle
What We Offer:
- Highly competitive salary and housing allowance
- Research funding for travel, computing, and publications
- Educational subsidies for children
- Access to NYUAD’s world-class research facilities and collaborative environment
Application Process
Interested applicants must submit the following materials in PDF format via Interfolio:
- Statement of interest
- Portfolio of artistic work from the last two years
- Curriculum vitae
- Transcript of degree(s)
- Two references at the time of application
This position is part of the NYUAD Kawader program. For more details, eligibility requirements, and FAQs, please visit the Kawader Research Assistantship Program webpage.
For inquiries, please contact nyuad.kawader

About the Company
NYU Abu Dhabi is a globally recognized research university 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. Located at the crossroads of the Arab world, NYUAD is committed 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.