Research Assistant, Laboratory for Computer-Human Intelligence

Role overview

New York University Abu Dhabi’s Laboratory for Computer-Human Intelligence, part of the Division of Engineering, is looking for a driven Research Assistant to contribute to advanced work in machine learning, artificial intelligence, and data science using human-generated signals such as text, audio, and physiology.

The role sits within research projects led by Principal Investigator Tuka Alhanai. The work may include building algorithms to estimate cognitive outcomes, exploring population-level health and well-being patterns, and turning complex research data into clear, meaningful outputs. The ideal candidate is curious, proactive, and willing to build the skills needed to grow into a strong researcher.

Key responsibilities

• Create data intake and organization pipelines suited to different data sources so the information can be processed efficiently.
• Work with multimodal signals such as audio, text, images, movement, and physiological data, including cleaning noisy inputs and reducing them to usable features.
• Apply machine learning methods to identify patterns and predict outcomes of interest.
• Build visual representations such as plots, charts, and web-based dynamic or static graphics to communicate findings to technical and non-technical audiences.
• Maintain strong documentation across code repositories, comments, README files, research papers, and project websites so the work remains reproducible and accessible.
• Contribute to research output with the aim of targeting top-100 publications in respected conferences and journals.
• Solve practical technical issues creatively and think through the next best steps in ongoing research work.
• Share findings, reasoning, and conclusions clearly with executive-level stakeholders and technical collaborators.

Technical background

The role calls for experience building end-to-end applications that combine databases, algorithms, and visualization, as well as handling one or more signal types and working with machine learning models such as regression and neural networks. Familiarity with bash, SQL, Python, HTML, JavaScript, TensorFlow or PyTorch, and git-based version control is expected. Experience preparing peer-reviewed scientific papers is also important.

Candidate profile

Applicants should be self-motivated, interested in current machine learning ideas and research tools, and genuinely curious about how observable behavior and signals can be formalized into scientific insight. A strong eye for detail and a commitment to quality are highly valued.

Education and application details

A Bachelor’s degree is required, with a Master’s degree preferred, in Computer Science or a related field such as Mathematics, Physics, Engineering, or Economics.

Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis until the position is filled, and candidates who successfully pass review may be appointed immediately. All materials must be submitted in PDF format and should include a cover letter, CV, transcript of degree, and two recommendation letters.

Program and inclusion information

This role is part of the NYUAD Kawader program, a three-year, individually tailored research fellowship designed to help outstanding graduates gain experience in a high-level academic research setting. The program offers two pathways for Emirati graduates who are considering either graduate study or a research career.

UAE nationals are encouraged to apply. For questions about the role or program, candidates may contact nyuad.kawader@nyu.edu and should allow up to 5 working days for a reply because of high email volume.

Equal opportunity and sustainability

NYU is an equal opportunity employer and provides fair treatment in hiring regardless of protected characteristics under applicable law. NYU also states a sustainability commitment to become one of the greenest urban campuses in the country and to be carbon neutral by 2040.