Research Assistant – Behavioral Social Science Job Vacancy in UAE Abdu Dhabi
The Center for Behavioral Institutional Design (C-BID) at New York University Abu Dhabi is seeking a research assistant to contribute to interdisciplinary studies on human behavioral diversity, empirical models of behavior, and the design of innovative policies for social welfare.
Job Location: Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
Job Industry: Higher Education and Research
Job Function: Research and Development
Salary: Competitive
Gender: Any
Key Responsibilities:
- Conduct research on human behavior, policy design, and institutional frameworks
- Collect, analyze, and interpret behavioral data using experimental, empirical, or theoretical methods
- Assist in developing and testing new research tools and methodologies
- Collaborate with a multidisciplinary team of researchers, including economists, political scientists, psychologists, and computer scientists
- Support research activities within one or more of C-BID’s key clusters, focusing on behavioral diversity and policy development
- Contribute to research publications and presentations
Required Skills and Experience
Education:
- Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Economics, Social and Behavioral Sciences, Mathematics, Physics, Computer Science, or a related field
Experience:
- Previous research experience in behavioral social science is desirable
- Strong analytical and problem-solving skills
- Experience with data collection, statistical analysis, and empirical research methods
Skills:
- Proficiency in programming languages such as Python, R, MATLAB, or Stata is preferred
- Strong communication and collaboration abilities
- Ability to work in an interdisciplinary research environment
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
- Curriculum vitae
- List of publications (if applicable)
- Up to three research reprints or transcripts
- Two letters of recommendation from academic experts in the applicant’s field
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.