Post-Doctoral Associate in Social Science Research on Land Economics - NYU Abu Dhabi

About the Role

The Center for Interacting Urban Networks (CITIES) at New York University Abu Dhabi is inviting applications for a Post-Doctoral Associate position to contribute to the LANDMark project. This initiative focuses on diverse aspects of land economics including measurement of land prices, determinants of land value like public infrastructures, macroeconomic impacts of land as a fixed asset, alternative taxation approaches on land wealth, political economy relating to land, and conflicts involving land and fixed resources.

Research Themes

• Techniques for estimating land prices, especially imputation methods
• Assessing how public infrastructure such as transport, healthcare, and education affects land value
• Examining macroeconomic stability and volatility when land is treated as a non-produced, fixed asset
• Evaluating land wealth taxation alternatives to consumption and capital taxes
• Studying the political economy linked to land and its tax regimes
• Investigating the role of land and fixed resources in political conflicts

Candidate Profile

Candidates should hold a Ph.D. in economics or a related quantitative discipline awarded within the last five years. Those with a passion for interdisciplinary collaboration and experience in research related broadly to land topics — including housing, macroeconomics, labor, urban and spatial economics, political economy, or conflict — are encouraged to apply. Strong English communication and teamwork skills are essential.

Application Process

Applicants must provide a cover letter, CV, a detailed research statement describing potential projects and collaborators within CITIES, and references from 2 to 3 referees. The review of applications begins immediately and continues until the position is filled. The earliest appointment date is January 1, 2027.

About LANDMark

The LANDMark project, led by Professor Etienne Wasmer and funded for a six-year period (2027–2032), assembles a global team of researchers focused on land-related studies. Four postdoctoral researchers will form the core team. The project encourages collaborative intersections with economics, engineering, computer science, and political science fields. The appointee will be based in the Social Science Division alongside economics faculty and may have an affiliation with the CITIES center.

About CITIES

CITIES (Center for Interacting Urban Networks) is an interdisciplinary research hub at NYU Abu Dhabi dedicated to advancing urban science and applying innovative research for societal benefit. The center fosters collaborations among faculty from all NYUAD divisions and international partners, aiming to enhance human capital and contribute to sustainable urban development in Abu Dhabi and beyond.

About NYU Abu Dhabi

NYU Abu Dhabi is a leading liberal arts and research campus in the Middle East affiliated with a top-ranked global university. It offers an internationally diverse student body and integrates liberal arts with advanced research across multiple disciplines. NYUAD promotes a culture of inclusivity, mutual respect, academic excellence, and equal opportunity. It offers comprehensive benefits to research staff including relocation support, dependent education, health and wellness services, and family support.

Equal Opportunity and Additional Information

NYUAD is an equal-opportunity employer welcoming applications from qualified candidates worldwide, with encouragement for Emirati applicants consistent with UAE regulations. The university supports an inclusive environment free from discrimination and harassment. Sustainability initiatives aim for carbon neutrality by 2040.