COVID-19: Looking to Science for Answers

As the COVID-19 pandemic continues to impact and influence research around the world, scientists at NYUAD have joined the global effort to find answers. Below are some of the research projects that our faculty, researchers, students, and staff have initiated and continue to pursue in the fight against the virus.

Research Projects

The Balance Between Reducing the Spread of COVID-19 and Economic Prosperity

A team of mathematicians and economists from NYUAD have developed a mathematical model that could offer a template for policy-makers.

Applications Open for Inaugual YouthTech Competition Developed in Response to COVID-19

The Abu Dhabi Department of Education and Knowledge has joined forces with startAD to launch the inaugural edition of the YouthTech Competition.

The Impact of COVID-19 on Research and Education

Instructor of Biology Mona Kalmouni talks about the global response to COVID-19, and specifically how learning can and does continue, despite the global education crisis.

Tackling COVID-19

Senior Research Scientist Hala Fahs explains what we know so far about COVID-19, why widespread testing is important, and what treatments and vaccinations are in the pipeline.

Global TIES for Children Relates Previous Learnings to Global Post-COVID School Reopening

As many schools around the world prepare to reopen in 2020 and beyond, this study provides critical insights that can help inform efforts to reintegrate children into schools after significant disruption and time away.

Students Support UAE in the Fight Against COVID-19

A group of students apply their skills in labs that are conducting COVID-19 tests on the UAE’s population.

NYU Abu Dhabi and Mubadala Healthcare Develop Reusable N-95 Mask

NYU Abu Dhabi is working with Mubadala Healthcare to create 3D printed N-95 masks that are better for the environment and provide the same level of protection for users.

2020 NYUAD International Hackathon Targets COVID-19

Health Hero Match, a website that connects medical workers with hospitals currently facing staffing shortages, won first place at the 2020 Annual NYUAD International Hackathon for Social Good in the Arab World.

Science in Fiction: Pandemics and Disease

Biologist and Film Maker Alexis Gambis shines a different light on the pandemic by showcasing works that weave the seemingly disparate worlds of cinema and science.

Coronavirus Concern, Turned into Action

Associate Professor of Mathematics Francesco Paparella is analyzing data on coronavirus to help predict various events, such as when the epidemic may reach its peak and the most effective policies at curbing its spread.

A Student's Capstone Project That Could Inform Government Policy on Coronavirus

Class of 2020 Graduate Anh Mai's Capstone research proposes a unique, two-phase, reactive solution to the issue of policy optimization during a pandemic.

Student Volunteers Partake in Assessment of COVID-19 Death Toll

Alberto Gandolfi, Professor of Practice in Mathematics, is working on a worldwide statistical analysis of COVID-19 mortality rates to more accurately depict the amount of deaths occurring from the disease.

Assessing the Mental Impact of COVID-19

Assistant Professor of Psychology Jocelyn J. Bélanger is working with 100 collaborators on five continents to identify psychological and cultural factors relevant to the spread of COVID-19 and its effect on societies.

In the News

UAE’s First N95 Respirator Manufacturing Facility Can Produce up to 90,000 Units Per Day

The facility, with an annual production capacity of 30 million units, has secured orders from UAE entities for the rest of the year.

Gulf Business | July 13, 2020

NYU Abu Dhabi Researchers Explore the Balance Needed to Flatten the Curve of COVID-19

A team of mathematicians and economists from NYU Abu Dhabi (NYUAD) examined how to balance the need to “flatten the curve” and reduce the spread of COVID-19 while trying to prevent economies from sustaining prolonged, severe, and potentially permanent damage.

Gulf News | June 24, 2020

Coronavirus: Two UAE Universities Develop 3D-Printed Reusable Face Masks and Shields

Researchers at UAE University in Al Ain and NYUAD are finalising the design of 3D-printed face masks and shields before large scale production begins in the country.

The National | June 22, 2020

How Behavioral Science Can Help Contain the Coronavirus

Assistant Professor of Psychology Jocelyn Belangér explains how his new global survey could help us understand why some people follow the rules for avoiding COVID-19 and others don’t.

Scientific American | May 11, 2020

Coronavirus: Increased Measures will Help UAE Flatten Curve

Assistant Professor of Biology Youssef Idaghdour explains how increased testing and social distancing will speed up the process of flattening the curve.

Gulf News | April 05, 2020