Job Description

The Clinical Artificial Intelligence Lab at NYU Abu Dhabi seeks to improve patient care by developing new machine learning methodologies that tackle unique computational problems in healthcare applications. We use large real-world complex datasets, including data extracted from electronic health records and medical images, for applications pertaining to patient diagnostics and prognostics.

We are seeking a Postdoctoral Researcher to join the team and make significant contributions to the field. The researcher is expected to have (i) strong machine learning skills to improve model performance and robustness, and (ii) exemplary passion and motivation to pursue multidisciplinary research at the intersection of computing and healthcare. Methodologies of interest include:

• multi-modal learning,
• foundation models, including large language models,
• agentic AI,
• multi-agent AI systems,
• transfer learning,
• self-supervised learning,
• and federated learning.

The Postdoctoral Researcher will be primarily based at NYU Abu Dhabi. The researcher will report directly to Dr. Farah Shamout and work in close collaboration with other researchers, PhD students, and undergraduate research assistants. The researcher will engage with our regular collaborators across the NYU campuses and local medical institutions in the UAE.

Key Responsibilities

Research

• Support the supervisor in developing and implementing the research agenda;
• Conduct high-quality and innovative research primarily focused on ML methodology development for healthcare;
• Generate new high-impact ideas based on gaps and limitations of the state-of-the-art (SOTA);
• Design and implement experiments to compare proposed work with SOTA baselines;
• Publish research findings in high-impact journals and conferences;
• Communicate and present research findings at international academic gatherings;
• Create, maintain, and document high-quality research code for reproducibility;
• Maintain good practice in managing and accessing sensitive medical datasets;
• Assist the supervisor in the preparation of grant applications (as appropriate);
• And collaborate with scientists within the NYU Global Network and in Abu Dhabi.

Training & professional development*

• Attend trainings and workshops for career development;
• Mentor PhD students and undergraduate research assistants (as appropriate);
• Actively participate in events and committees at NYU Abu Dhabi, such as the Postdoctoral Council Steering Committee;
• Gain experience in applying for local research grants (subject to eligibility);
• And transition to independence to pursue a career of choosing following the appointment.

* The researcher will create a personalized training and development plan with the supervisor.

Minimum Qualifications

• Currently has or is in the process of completing a PhD, MD/PhD, DPhil or equivalent terminal degree from a recognized institution (no more than 5 years since completing the doctoral degree)
• Doctoral research in the area of machine learning and artificial intelligence
• Bachelor’s/ Master’s degree in computer science, mathematics, computer engineering, or relevant technical field
• First-author peer-reviewed published papers (or under review)
• Proficient programming experience in Python and libraries (e.g., Pytorch, TensorFlow) with several years of practice
• Experience in maintaining high-quality code on Github
• Experience in running and managing experiments using GPUs
• Ability to visualize experimental results and learning curves
• Effective inter-personal and team-building skills
• Self-motivated with an ability to work independently and in a team to get the work done
• Excellent communication skills (oral and written communication)
• Willingness to learn and confront new challenges

Preferred Qualifications

• Doctoral research conducted in the area of machine learning for healthcare and related topics
• Deep knowledge of multi-modal learning, transfer learning, foundation models, and self-supervised learning.
• Experience in dealing with large medical datasets (e.g., electronic health records data or medical images)
• Ability to use high performance computing cluster

For consideration, applicants need to submit a cover letter, curriculum vitae with full publication list, research statement (1-page), project proposal summary (1-page), a transcript or degree, and three letters of reference, all in PDF format. If you have any questions, please email Prof. Farah Shamout at farah.shamout@nyu.edu.

The terms of employment are very competitive and include housing and educational subsidies for children. Applications will be accepted immediately and candidates will be considered until the position is filled.

About NYU Abu Dhabi

https://nyuad.nyu.edu/en/
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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