Associate Research Scientist in the Division of Science (AI-Blockchain) - Dr. Yaw Nyarko

About the Role

The Division of Social Science at New York University Abu Dhabi (NYUAD) invites applications for an Associate Research Scientist (AI-Blockchain) position for a one-year period, with the possibility of renewal conditional on excellent performance.

The Associate Research Scientist (AI-Blockchain) will support advanced, quantitatively intensive research at the Center for Technology, Economics, and Development (CTED) with a primary focus on artificial intelligence, machine learning, mathematical modeling, and computational analysis. Working under the direction of the Principal Investigator (PI), Dr. Yaw Nyarko, and Co-Principal Investigator (Co-PI), Dr. Raša Karapandža, you will contribute to AI-driven and blockchain-enabled research related to commodities markets and economic development.

Responsibilities

• Support research design, algorithmic development, data analysis, and coding tasks across CTED's interdisciplinary projects
• Develop, test, and evaluate machine learning models using programming and computational tools including Python, MATLAB, and related libraries
• Review, proofread, and execute formal mathematical proofs
• Implement optimization and simulation-based methods
• Analyze large and complex datasets
• Support experimental and field-based research
• Prepare literature reviews
• Translate complex AI and mathematical findings into clear written outputs
• Contribute to research reports, concept notes, and academic publications
• Work autonomously and as a team member under the direction of the Principal Investigator

Requirements

• Ph.D. in Computer Science, Data Science, Mathematics, or a related field (e.g., Economics with a strong mathematics background)
• Extensive coding experience
• Strong foundations in mathematics and computer science, including statistical learning, optimization, simulation, and algorithmic reasoning
• Proficiency in programming languages such as Python, JavaScript, and/or MATLAB
• Strong interest in economic and quantitative research
• Willingness to learn about blockchain technology

Nice to Have

• Experience conducting field research in emerging countries
• Experience working on randomized controlled trials (RCTs)
• Experience in web development
• Experience with blockchain
• Knowledge of commodities markets
• Background in technology and economic development

About NYU Abu Dhabi

NYU Abu Dhabi is the first comprehensive liberal arts and research campus in the Middle East to be operated abroad by a major American research university. Times Higher Education ranks NYU among the top 30 universities in the world, making NYU Abu Dhabi the highest-ranked university in the UAE and MENA region. NYU Abu Dhabi has integrated a highly selective undergraduate curriculum across the disciplines with a world center for advanced research and scholarship. The university enables its students in the sciences, engineering, social sciences, humanities, and arts to succeed in an increasingly interdependent world and advance cooperation and progress on humanity's shared challenges. NYU Abu Dhabi's high-achieving students have come from over 120 countries and speak over 100 languages. Together, NYU's campuses in New York, Abu Dhabi, and Shanghai form the backbone of a unique global university, giving faculty and students opportunities to experience varied learning environments and immersion in other cultures at one or more of the numerous study-abroad sites NYU maintains on six continents.

What We Offer

At NYUAD, we recognize that Abu Dhabi is more than where you work; it's your home. In order for research staff to thrive, we offer a comprehensive benefits package that includes a generous relocation allowance, educational assistance for your dependents, and access to health and wellness services. NYUAD is committed to research staff success throughout the academic trajectory, providing support for ambitious and world-class research projects and innovative, interactive teaching approaches. Support for dual-career families is a priority.