Junior Research Scientist Center Brain and Health; CBH; Dr. David Melcher

Oct 14, 2026

The Perception and Active Cognition Laboratory in the Center for Brain & Health, New York University Abu Dhabi, seeks to recruit a junior research scientist to work on the mechanisms underlying cognitive and perceptual Speed of Processing.

The successful applicant will drive a fascinating project on the interactions between sleep, circadian rhythms, stress and Speed of Processing, in both healthy participants and in patients with Multiple Sclerosis (and potentially other health and mental health conditions). The Research Scientist will ensure the successful acquisition and analysis of experimental data, including behavioral and neuroimaging (EEG/MEG and/or MRI) data. These studies will be informed by computational modeling and will use cutting-edge data analysis methods.

The project will build on recent work from the Melcher lab on the neural mechanisms underlying individual and clinical differences in visual temporal resolution and in classic measures of Speed of Processing such as the SDMT, as well as recent studies from our lab showing an influence of mood and stress on these measures.

Applicants must have at least a Bachelor's degree in a field related to this project, or a Masters degree with less than 5 years of experience. Previous experience in similar research paradigms (behavioral and/or neuroimaging experiments with human participants) is required. Applicants with a strong background in coding (such as in Python or Matlab) are particularly encouraged to apply.

For consideration, applicants need to submit a cover letter, curriculum vitae with full publication list, statement of research interests, the name of three referees, and a transcript, all in PDF format. If you have any questions, please email Prof. Melcher cher.

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…