"Research Technician"

The Marine Microbiomics Lab at New York University Abu Dhabi seeks to appoint a Research Technician with a background in chemistry or materials science to work on a collaborative project funded by Emirates Biotech, which is constructing the largest poly(lactic acid) (PLA) production facility in the world in Abu Dhabi. This partnership aims to assess the abiotic and biotic degradation of PLA under UAE environmental conditions, relevant to sustainable plastics production and circular bioeconomy strategies.

The successful candidate will characterize PLA and related materials under laboratory and field experiments, using analytical and imaging techniques to study degradation pathways and kinetics. The role involves leading Phase 1 (abiotic lab simulations) and contributing to later phases (field incubations and microbial studies).

Qualifications:

• A Master’s degree in chemistry, materials science, or related field.
• Strong experience with analytical instruments such as GPC, SEM, FTIR, TGA, DSC, HPLC, and related techniques.
• Ability to prepare, process, and analyze polymer samples.
• Familiarity with experimental design, data analysis, and lab maintenance.
• Excellent organizational skills and ability to work in a multidisciplinary team.

Responsibilities:

• Conduct lab simulations of PLA degradation under controlled conditions.
• Characterize PLA properties using advanced instrumentation.
• Analyze degradation products and prepare datasets for modeling.
• Conduct field incubations in UAE environments.
• Assist with manuscript preparation, data management, and project reporting.

Researchers have access to state-of-the-art facilities at NYU Abu Dhabi. Terms include competitive employment, housing, and educational subsidies.

Application Process: Deadline is October 31, with start in early January 2026. Submit in PDF: cover letter, CV, three references, transcript, and a one-page research summary. For instructions, visit: http://nyuad.nyu.edu/about/careers/faculty-positions.html. For questions, contact Prof. Shady Amin at samin@nyu.edu.