The SANAD lab at NYUAD is hiring a Junior Research Scientist to work with Dr. Sarah Nadi in the Division of Science (Computer Science Program) at New York University Abu Dhabi. The candidate will conduct research on programming languages and software engineering, develop open-source tools and resources, and work on publications related to their research.
The name SANAD (سند), meaning "support" in Arabic, is short for Software Analysis and Developer Support, reflecting the lab’s mission to assist developers as software systems become increasingly intricate. Specializing in program analysis and software analytics, the lab works on enhancing the precision and scalability of static analyses and mining insights from software repositories. Ongoing research projects include detecting API misuse, analyzing program performance, measuring energy consumption, detecting security vulnerabilities, supporting library migrations, and leveraging large language models (LLMs) for software engineering and static analysis tasks. More information can be found on https://sanadlab.org.
Key Responsibilities:
As a Junior Research Scientist, you will be involved in all aspects of our research, including conducting literature reviews, collecting and analyzing data, implementing tools, running experiments, and writing papers. This is an excellent opportunity to develop your research skills and your publication record, especially if you are considering pursuing a Master’s or PhD degree.
Position Details:
The candidate is expected to begin asap (e.g. October 2026) and the contract will be for 9-10 months.
Qualifications
Minimum Qualifications:
- Master’s degree with less than 5 years of research experience
- Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science (coursework/projects must include software engineering related topics)
- Excellent programming skills
- Strong software engineering skills including use of version control systems, continuous integration, testing
- Excellent communication skills (both written and verbal)
- Demonstrated ability to work as part of a team
Preferred Qualifications:
- Previous software engineering research experience
- Knowledge of use and/or development of generative AI, e.g., use of Large Language Models for certain (software engineering) tasks
- Previous software engineering paper submission or publication is a plus
Application Instructions
To be considered, all applicants must submit
- Cover letter
- Statement of interest in the position (1 page summarizing research accomplishments and research interests)
- Curriculum vitae (CV)
- Transcripts of all degrees
- Two letters of recommendation. For applicants with previous research experience, one of the reference letters must be from their previous research project/position supervisor.
If you have any questions, please email sarah.nadi@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.
Join NYU Abu Dhabi, an exceptional place for exceptional people.
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.
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