Research Associate, Data Scientist, Data Analyst

Overview

We are seeking a highly motivated Research Associate to support a funded interdisciplinary research project focused on the development and evaluation of an interactive digital platform that integrates geographic content, GIS technologies, and digital pedagogy to enhance Arabic language acquisition for non-native speakers. The project combines language education, geospatial analysis, and educational technology to contextualize Arabic learning within cultural and spatial narratives.

It applies mixed research methodologies, including GIS-based content development, learning analytics, quantitative evaluation, and qualitative user feedback, to assess the effectiveness of digital, place-based language learning tools within the UAE and broader international contexts.

• Conduct comprehensive literature reviews in Arabic language acquisition, digital pedagogy, GIS-based learning, and place-based education.
• Assist in the design and development of instructional content, including map-based learning modules, geographic narratives, and culturally contextualized language materials.
• Support the development and testing of the digital atlas, including coordination with technical tools and platforms used for interactive maps and multimedia content.
• Assist in data collection from learners and educators, including surveys, pre/post language assessments, platform analytics, and interviews.
• Perform quantitative data analysis related to learning outcomes, engagement metrics, and usability indicators.
• Support qualitative analysis, including coding and thematic analysis of learner and instructor feedback.
• Contribute to the evaluation of the platform’s effectiveness in improving Arabic vocabulary acquisition, reading comprehension, and cultural understanding.
• Assist in the preparation of research reports, technical documentation, and academic manuscripts for peer-reviewed journals and conferences.
• Maintain accurate records of research activities, datasets, and ethical documentation in compliance with institutional guidelines.
• Collaborate closely with the research team to ensure timely completion of project milestones and deliverables.
• Stay informed about advances in GIS applications in education, digital humanities, Arabic pedagogy, and educational technology.

• Master’s Degree: A master’s degree in a relevant field such as GIS, geography, geospatial sciences, educational technology, instructional design, applied linguistics, Arabic language education, data analytics, digital humanities, computer science, engineering, or a closely related discipline. Candidates who are close to completing their master’s degree may be considered, subject to academic performance and evidence of research engagement.
• Research
  
  Experience:
  
  Demonstrated ability to support academic research activities, including data collection, basic analysis, and documentation.
• Technical Literacy:
  Basic familiarity with digital tools, educational platforms, or GIS-related applications used in research or learning environments.

• Master’s Degree in GIS / geospatial analysis, geography, educational technology, Arabic language teaching, applied linguistics, digital learning, data science, or computer engineering.
• Research Experience in interdisciplinary projects involving language education, GIS, digital platforms, or educational technology.
• GIS & Digital Tools
  
  Experience:
  
  Hands-on experience with GIS software (e.g., ArcGIS, QGIS), interactive mapping tools, or story-mapping platforms.
• Data Analysis
  
  Skills:
  
  Experience with quantitative and qualitative data analysis, including learning analytics, surveys, or usability studies.
• Software
  
  Skills:
  
  Familiarity with tools such as SPSS, Python, R, NVivo, Atlas.ti, or comparable platforms used for educational and user-experience research.
• Academic Output:
  Evidence of scholarly writing, such as conference papers, journal articles, or research reports, is highly desirable.

• Interdisciplinary Research
  
  Skills:
  
  Ability to work across GIS, language education, and digital pedagogy, supporting both technical and educational components of the project.
• GIS & Spatial Thinking:
  Compet…