Research Assistant – Film and Media (Kawader Fellowship)

About the role

NYU Abu Dhabi is seeking a full‑time Research Assistant Fellow in Film and Media under the Kawader program. The fellow will support two interdisciplinary film projects that explore music and cultural exchange along historic trade routes, while also developing an independent film project within the UAE.

Key responsibilities

• Assist in research, pre‑production, production, and data management for a documentary on music along the Silk Route.
• Support research for a new film examining circulation of people, material and culture across the Indian Ocean trade routes.
• Mentor and develop your own film project from proposal writing through production and exhibition.
• Help plan and execute dissemination activities, including participation in selected film festivals.

Required profile

• B.A. in Arts & Humanities with a major or minor in Film and New Media.
• Demonstrated experience in arts‑related research.
• Interest in Arab crossroads, Arab history, or related cultural studies is preferred.

Required skills

• Research methodology for arts and media projects.
• Data management for film production.
• Understanding of pre‑production, production, and post‑production workflows.

What we offer

• Full‑time paid position for up to three years.
• Mentorship by NYUAD faculty and professional development opportunities.
• Access to interdisciplinary, practice‑based research resources.
• Support for independent film development and exposure to international collaborators and festivals.