The Division of Science at NYU Abu Dhabi is home to a diverse, growing, and thriving community of world-class faculty, researchers, undergraduate and graduate students from around the world. It is committed to excellent teaching; advancing our understanding of nature and the universe, and harnessing multidisciplinary research to respond to local and global challenges.
By prioritizing innovation, collaboration, and a multidisciplinary pursuit of knowledge and discovery, our vision is pushing the boundaries of what is possible, fostering a vibrant and inclusive community of scholars who seek to address the most pressing challenges of our time.
NYU Abu Dhabi researchers have developed a groundbreaking nanoscale material that enhances fluorescence imaging during cryosurgery, enabling surgeons to precisely detect and remove cancer cells while preserving healthy tissue.
Our researchers have uncovered how genetic and lifestyle factors shape immune responses to malaria in West African children, revealing that the Fulani group has a more protective immune profile than the Mossi, offering new insights into disease susceptibility.
Renowned theoretical physicist Fernando Quevedo joined NYU Abu Dhabi to continue his lifelong pursuit of fundamental questions about the universe, inspired by the UAE’s bold investment in science and his commitment to mentoring the next generation of global researchers.
From an early fascination with bees and flowers in her backyard to a career in evolutionary biology, Amandine Cornille has dedicated her life to understanding the genetic diversity of fruit trees and their resilience to climate change. At NYUAD, Cornille is expanding her research to fig trees, embracing the rich cultural and ecological significance of these species in the Middle East.
From working on Steven Hawking's information paradox to researching the nature of the inner workings of black holes, Ahmed Almheiri spends much of his time peering into the unknown. As a theoretical physicist, the Assistant Professor of Physics says he has to intentionally question any truths he may expect to find – instead focusing on the discoveries he may uncover.
Associate Professor Azza Abouzied develops decision-making tools that help users make informed choices. From mitigating online disinformation to optimizing stock portfolios and aiding urban planning, Azza's work emphasizes the importance of data-driven insights without replacing human judgment.
Associate Professor Azam Gholami researches the movement of hair-like structures in algae, which could provide insights into human cell behavior and contribute to cancer research, with a focus on restoring cellular functions when they malfunction.
From childhood dreams of DNA research to a fascination with quantum chaos, Professor Mostafa Sabri’s path to mathematics was anything but predictable. He joined NYUAD in 2022, where he studies how small perturbations can lead to vastly different outcomes in physical systems.
