Research Assistant – Emirates Mission to the Asteroid Belt (EMA)

About the role

NYU Abu Dhabi is seeking a Kawader Research Assistant Fellow to support the Emirates Mission to the Asteroid Belt (EMA), the UAE Space Agency’s flagship deep‑space mission running through 2035. The fellow will work within an international, multidisciplinary team, contributing to planetary research, data analysis, and mission‑operations activities.

Key responsibilities

• Conduct research and data analysis aligned with EMA’s scientific objectives.
• Develop and support laboratory experiments and numerical models related to asteroids and deep‑space environments.
• Assist with mission‑related operations, including coordination with UAE Space Agency partners and participation in team meetings.
• Prepare scientific writings, present at conferences, and engage in public outreach to promote UAE planetary science.

Required profile

• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Physics, Astronomy, Planetary Science, Geology, Engineering or a closely related field.
• Strong analytical abilities and capacity to work independently and in a multidisciplinary team.
• Demonstrated interest in planetary exploration and deep‑space missions.
• UAE nationals are encouraged to apply.

Required skills

• Data Analysis
• numerical modeling
• Scientific Writing
• Laboratory experiments

What we offer

• Full‑time paid research position for up to three years.
• Mentorship from internationally recognised NYUAD faculty.
• Professional development, academic training and exposure to active UAE Space Agency mission operations.
• Support for graduate school applications.