Offer Description
The Mubadala Arabian Center for Climate and Environmental Sciences (Mubadala ACCESS) at New York University Abu Dhabi (NYUAD) is seeking a Junior Research Scientist – Research Aquarist to support our rapidly growing experimental ecophysiology team working on coral and fish responses to environmental stress. Applicants with experience operating and maintaining research aquaria and an interest in marine experimental research are encouraged to apply. Terms of employment include competitive salary…
and benefits.
The successful candidate will work under the supervision of Prof. John Burt, head of the NYUAD Marine Biology Lab and Director of Mubadala ACCESS. The candidate will join a diverse and interdisciplinary research environment spanning coral and fish ecophysiology, marine ecology, genomics, molecular biology, and environmental science. NYUAD is currently expanding its experimental aquarium and mesocosm systems to support a growing team of experimental researchers, and the aquarist will serve a core function in supporting this research.
Responsibilities of the position include operating and managing experimental research aquaria across a range of sizes; maintaining closed and other aquarium systems; managing lighting, air and mixed-gas supply, heaters, chillers, and environmental control systems; undertaking plumbing, tank and sump design, maintenance, and troubleshooting; managing life-support systems and disease control for aquatic organisms; and supporting the collection and logging of aquarium-based research data.
Candidates should have demonstrated experience running, maintaining, and modifying aquaria, including closed and other systems, as well as experience with environmental controls, plumbing, tank and sump design, and Apex Neptune Systems. A valid driver's license is required. A Bachelor's degree in Biology, Marine Biology, or a related field is preferred, with a Master's degree with less than 5 years. Additional preferred experience includes boat-based or diving-based fieldwork, research or academic aquarium systems, coral spawning and/or larval fish husbandry, coral reef restoration or nurseries, and SCUBA diving certification.
To be considered, all applicants must submit a cover letter, curriculum vitae, transcript of degree/copy of highest degree, and a research statement, all in PDF format. At least 2 contact references/recommendation letters, will be requested from shortlisted candidates.
Applications will be accepted immediately and candidates will be considered until 01 September 2026. If you have any questions, please reach out to Kelly Bradham at kelly.bradham@nyu.edu.
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.
NYUAD is committed to upholding a culture of non-discrimination, anti-harassment, dignity, and mutual respect; providing equal access and opportunity; and fostering academic excellence in learning, research, and teaching.
Students are drawn from among the world’s best. They are bright, intellectually passionate, and committed to building a campus environment anchored in mutual respect, understanding, and care. The NYUAD undergraduate student body has garnered an impressive record of scholarships, graduate-school admissions, and other global honors. Graduate education is an area of growth for the University; the current graduate student population of over 100 students is expected to expand in the next decade as doctoral programs are developed.
Working for NYUAD
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. This starts with a generous relocation allowance; educational assistance for your dependents; access to health and wellness services; and more. 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.
Visit our website for more information on benefits for you and your dependents.
NYUAD is an equal-opportunity employer. We welcome applications from all qualified candidates and seek individuals who will contribute to the excellence and vibrancy of our academic community.
Applications are welcome from all qualified candidates. In line with UAE regulations, Emirati candidates are encouraged to apply.
NYUAD values belonging and respect; such principles are fundamental to the university’s commitment to excellence. NYUAD is an equal-opportunity employer. We welcome applications from all qualified candidates and seek individuals who will contribute to our vibrant, multidisciplinary research and teaching community. Multidisciplinary research and exceptional teaching in a global campus community are hallmarks of the University’s mission.