Dean of Social Science | NYU Abu Dhabi Senior Position

Job Description

NYU Abu Dhabi seeks an accomplished scholar and visionary leader for the position of Dean of Social Science. This senior leadership role offers the opportunity to shape a top-ranked academic division at one of the world’s most selective universities.

Position Overview:
The Dean will provide strategic leadership for the Social Science Division, home to over 80 faculty members including Nobel Laureates and internationally recognized researchers. The position requires an academic leader with proven administrative experience and a distinguished scholarly record.

Division Highlights:

• 80+ full-time faculty across five departments
• Economics program ranks 4th in Asia in research output
• Political Science program ranks 6th globally
• Includes Nobel Laureate in Economics
• Undergraduate and graduate programs
• Global research collaborations spanning all continents

Key Responsibilities:

• Provide strategic academic leadership for the Social Science Division
• Recruit and retain world-class faculty across multiple disciplines
• Enhance interdisciplinary research and teaching initiatives
• Represent the division within NYU’s global network and international partnerships
• Foster community engagement in Abu Dhabi and the UAE
• Advance the division’s research impact and global visibility
• Collaborate with senior leadership across NYU’s global campuses

Qualifications and Requirements:

• PhD in Social Science discipline
• Distinguished scholarly record qualifying for tenured full Professor appointment
• Proven academic leadership experience
• International recognition in research and publication
• Ability to inspire and manage diverse faculty and staff
• Commitment to interdisciplinary collaboration
• Experience in global academic environments

Application Process:
NYUAD is supported by Perrett Laver executive search. Applications should include:

• Letter of interest addressing leadership priorities
• Current curriculum vitae

Timeline:
Search continues throughout 2025-2026 academic year
Expected start date no later than September 2027

Institutional Context:
NYU Abu Dhabi maintains 2.7% admission selectivity and has produced 24 Rhodes Scholars. The university hosts 370+ faculty including 4 Nobel Laureates and students from 120+ countries.