Research Assistant – Voice Studies & Cultural Anthropolinguistics

About the role

NYU Abu Dhabi is seeking a Kawader Research Assistant Fellow to support two inter‑connected book projects in Voice Studies and Cultural Anthropolinguistics. The role combines theoretical research, fieldwork across the Arab world, and contribution to the establishment of a new Voice Studies & Epistemological Research Centre.

Key responsibilities

• Conduct archival and literature reviews on Antonin Artaud, glossolalia, sound studies and Middle Eastern vocal traditions.
• Assist in planning, executing and documenting ethnographic fieldwork, including participant recruitment and audio recording.
• Collaborate on drafting and potentially co‑authoring a scholarly book chapter.
• Manage administrative workflows with co‑editors, publishers and contributing authors.
• Support institutional tasks related to the new research centre.

Required profile

• Graduate degree in Arts or Humanities (or related Master’s).
• Fluency in English and Arabic (classical or relevant dialects).
• Experience with qualitative research methods, ethnography or oral‑history interviewing.
• Willingness to travel internationally, including a four‑month residency in Canada.

Required skills

• Proficiency with high‑quality field recording equipment.
• Basic audio editing and archiving using Audacity or Adobe Audition.

What we offer

• Full‑time paid research position for up to three years.
• Mentorship by NYUAD faculty and professional development opportunities.
• Potential co‑authorship of a book chapter.
• Support for a four‑month visiting fellowship at the University of Victoria, Canada.
• Involvement in establishing a new research centre in the UAE.