Junior Research Scientist (AI-Blockchain Project)

Description

The Center for Technology, Economics, and Development (CTED) at New York University Abu Dhabi (NYUAD) invites applications from individuals to be appointed as a Junior Research Scientist (AI-Blockchain Project) for a one-year period, with the possibility of renewal conditional on excellent performance.

The Junior Research Scientist (AI-Blockchain Research) will support advanced, quantitatively intensive research at CTED with a primary focus on artificial intelligence, machine learning, mathematical modeling, and computational analysis. The Junior Research Scientist will play a central role in supporting research design, algorithmic development, data analysis, and coding tasks across CTED’s interdisciplinary projects. Working under the direction of the Principal Investigator (PI), Dr. Yaw Nyarko, and Co-Principal Investigator (Co-PI), Dr. Raša Karapandža, the Junior Research Scientist will contribute to AI-driven and blockchain-enabled research related to commodities markets and economic development. The role requires strong foundations in mathematics and computer science, including statistical learning, optimization, simulation, and algorithmic reasoning. The successful candidate will use programming and computational tools (including Python, MATLAB, and related libraries) to develop, test, and evaluate machine learning models; review, proofread, and execute formal mathematical proofs; implement optimization and simulation-based methods; and analyze large and complex datasets. Responsibilities include supporting experimental and field-based research, preparing literature reviews, translating complex AI and mathematical findings into clear written outputs, and contributing to research reports, concept notes, and academic publications.

Candidates must hold a Master’s degree in Computer Science, Data Science, Mathematics or a related field (e.g., Economics with a strong mathematics background). and have less than five years of relevant research experience; or hold a Bachelor’s degree in a relevant field with any level of research experience. Applicants must have extensive coding experience, and preferably, applicants will have experience conducting field research in emerging countries and working on randomized controlled trials (RCTs). Applicants with experience working in programming languages such as Python, JavaScript, and/or MATLAB, a strong interest in economic and quantitative research and the willingness to learn about the blockchain, are encouraged to apply. Experience in web development, blockchain, commodities markets, and technology and economic development will be considered a plus. The successful candidate will work in a multidisciplinary environment, working autonomously, but as a team member under the direction of the Principal Investigator.

The terms of employment are very competitive. Applications will be accepted immediately, and candidates will be considered until the position is filled. For consideration, applicants need to submit a cover letter, curriculum vitae/resume, transcript of degree, and one academic writing sample, and 2 recommendation letters, all in PDF format. If you have any questions, please email amp330@nyu.edu.