Associate Research Scientist

Description

The Mubadala Arabian Center for Climate and Environmental Sciences (Mubadala ACCESS), New York University Abu Dhabi, seeks to recruit an Associate Research Scientist to support a major NYU Abu Dhabi-OceanX initiative focused on advancing coral reef monitoring, applied research and regional capacity building across Southeast Asia, with particular emphasis on Malaysia.

The successful applicant will play a central role in coordinating and implementing a multi-year coral reef monitoring and training program across Southeast Asia. The Associate Research Scientist will contribute to the design, coordination, and delivery of annual field missions aboard the RV OceanXplorer, support the implementation of standardized reef monitoring protocols, and deliver hands-on training programs for regional partners. The position includes supporting pre and post mission workshops, strengthening stakeholder engagement, and contributing to the development of regional scientific networks.

The Associate Research Scientist will also assist in organizing an annual Southeast Asia learning exchange hosted at NYU Abu Dhabi, supporting agenda development, training sessions in reef monitoring and data analysis, and coordination with university administrative units. A key component of the role involves contributing to the organization and management of data and metadata systems associated with Southeast Asian reef monitoring activities conducted in partnership with OceanX. The candidate will support standardized data workflows, quality control, documentation, and the development of open-access products tailored to researchers, decision-makers, NGOs, and public audiences.

The role further includes supporting reporting, communications, and stakeholder coordination across NYUAD, OceanX, Dalio Philanthropies, and regional partners. The Associate Research Scientist will contribute to progress updates, annual reports, stakeholder briefings, and public-facing communication materials in collaboration with NYUAD and OceanX Communications teams. The position is based in Abu Dhabi, UAE, with regular travel to Southeast Asia during mission and training periods.

Qualifications

Applicants must hold a PhD in Marine Biology, Marine Science, Coral Reef Ecology, or a closely related field, with at least 3 years of relevant experience in their field (not including the years obtaining the PhD or equivalent terminal degree). Candidates must have demonstrated experience in coral reef monitoring programs in Southeast Asia, ideally in Malaysia, and hold SCUBA certification at a minimum of PADI Advanced Open Water (or equivalent). Experience delivering training or capacity-building programs, engaging with regional partners or government agencies, and contributing to peer-reviewed publications is required. Fluency in English is essential, and fluency in Malay/Bahasa Melayu is considered a strong asset. Preferred qualifications include advanced diving certification, training in ecological monitoring protocols, and experience with GIS, data management platforms, or applied reef assessment frameworks.

How to Apply

For consideration, applicants need to submit a cover letter, curriculum vitae with full publication list, statement of research interests, a transcript or degree, and three letters of reference, all in PDF format. If you have any questions, please email Kelly Bradham at Kelly.bradham@nyu.edu.