The DevLab is led by NYUAD faculty in economics, politics, social sciences, and more broadly computer science and the sciences. DevLab members share a deep experience conducting field work and research in Africa, Asia, the Gulf, and Latin America. The research topics explored by members of the lab include Agricultural and Commodities Markets, Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning, Communications and Web Access, Development Economics, Economic Growth, Experimental Economics, Food Security, Human Capital, Labor Markets, Political Economy of Development, Public Health, Research Methods, and Social Networks. The DevLab draws on cross-campus resources and collaborations with its partners NYU Africa House, the Center for Technology and Economic Development (CTED), and the Development Research Institute (DRI).
Since its founding in 2010, CTED has housed several research projects aiming to tackle a wide range of developmental problems across areas including: migration, commodities trading, artificial intelligence, GIS mapping, remittances, food and water, healthcare, financial access, energy, and education. CTED has research centers in Abu Dhabi (UAE), New York (USA), and Accra and Kumawu (Ghana).
and students conducting research in the areas of economic development, economic growth and macroeconomics, microfinance, analysis of the effectiveness of foreign aid, politics and political economy, and law and legal institutions. NYU Africa House regularly convenes high-level talks, seminars, and forums with African heads of state, ministers, and policymakers. Programs take place in New York City and in various African countries.