Research Appointments, Biological Sciences – MBZUAI

Job Description

Biological and Life Sciences Division – Research Appointment Positions, MBZUAI

Location: Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates | Institution: Mohamed bin Zayed University of Artificial Intelligence (MBZUAI) | Division: Biological & Life Sciences | Open Date: July 9, 2026

About the Role

The Biological and Life Sciences Division at MBZUAI in Abu Dhabi is at the forefront of research at the intersection of Genomics, Multi-Omics, Personalized Medicine, Precision Therapeutics, Epidemiology, and Artificial Intelligence (AI). A key initiative within the division is the Human Phenotype Project, a groundbreaking, large-scale longitudinal cohort and biobank designed to identify novel molecular markers with diagnostic, prognostic, and therapeutic value. This project involves deep profiling of participants through comprehensive data collection on medical history, lifestyle and nutritional habits, vitals, anthropometrics, blood tests, continuous glucose and sleep monitoring, and multi-omic molecular profiling, including genetics, transcriptomics, microbiomics, metabolomics, and immune system markers. The division leverages this data and advanced AI, medical, and computational models to generate insights into disease mechanisms, identifying novel biomarkers and developing state-of-the-art predictive models for disease onset and progression. These models are translated into personalized prevention strategies and innovative therapeutic interventions.

Research Areas of Interest

Research areas include, but are not limited to:

• Computational and Systems Biology
• Medical and Health Informatics
• Personalized Medicine
• Foundation AI Models
• Agentic and robotic workflow management systems
• Multi-omics and Integrative Data Analysis
• Population-level Cohort and EHR Analysis
• Epidemiology
• Pandemics
• Biomedical Imaging

The Biological and Life Sciences Division is recruiting for its interdisciplinary team of researchers to advance work on projects such as the Human Phenotype Project and Emirati Genome Project data.

Key Responsibilities

• Conduct high-quality research in the field of AI, focusing on multi-omics data analysis and fusion for precision medicine
• Design and implement innovative AI algorithms and models to solve complex problems
• Collaborate with team members and contribute to ongoing research projects
• Analyze and interpret research data, and present findings to both technical and non-technical audiences
• Write and publish research papers in high-impact peer-reviewed journals and conferences
• Present research at national and international conferences and meetings
• Collaborate with various research groups across the world
• Stay up to date with the latest advancements and trends in the field
• Help supervise PhD and MSc students and Research Engineers, as needed
• Contribute to the development and maintenance of the lab’s AI research infrastructure
• Participate in grant writing and organizational activities
• Participate in educational and outreach activities

Qualifications

This position requires a Ph.D. in Computer Science, Mathematics, Physics, Bioinformatics, or a related quantitative field, along with:

• Strong background and expertise in data science, bioinformatics, network science, artificial intelligence, machine learning, deep learning, or related areas
• Solid understanding of AI algorithms, models, and frameworks
• Proficiency in programming languages commonly used in bioinformatics and AI research (e.g., Python, TensorFlow, PyTorch, Nextflow)
• Record of publications in top-tier conferences or journals in bioinformatics, AI, or related fields
• Strong problem-solving and analytical skills
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills in English
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a team environment
• Demonstrated ability to manage and prioritize multiple tasks and projects

About MBZUAI

Mohamed bin Zayed University of Artificial Intelligence (MBZUAI) is a world-leading university dedicated to advancing AI as a global force for good. The UAE’s visionary leaders established MBZUAI to educate and develop top talent, conduct advanced research, foster an innovation ecosystem, and act as a strategic think tank for the public and private sectors. The University attracts world-class thinkers and doers in computer science, AI, bioscience, humanities, and beyond. Its groundbreaking academic research initiatives are working on developing future solutions that will impact the world and change the way we imagine things.

Why Join MBZUAI?

• Top-Tier Compensation: Competitive salaries aligned with leading global academic institutions
• Exceptional Benefits: Comprehensive health & life insurance, and relocation support for international hires
• Life in Abu Dhabi: One of the world’s safest cities, with year-round sunshine, rich culture, and modern amenities
• Industry & Government Collaborations: Work with top AI researchers, leading tech firms, and policymakers

Application Instructions

To apply for this position, please submit the following:

• Cover Letter
• Curriculum Vitae (including a list of publications, dates when all degrees were completed, including BSc, MSc, and PhD, the areas/subjects in which degrees were completed, e.g., Computer Science, and the names of the supervisors of these)
• Transcripts of all Higher Education degrees/certificates
• Statement of teaching interests, experience, and philosophy
• Name and contact details for three referees (referees will be contacted during the recruitment process to upload their reference letter via Interfolio)

Application Process

This institution is using Interfolio’s Faculty Search to conduct this search. Applicants to this position receive a free Dossier account and can send all application materials, including confidential letters of recommendation, free of charge.

How to Apply

Interested candidates can apply now via Interfolio.

See more MBZUAI jobs, browse academic jobs in the United Arab Emirates, or explore more Healthcare & Medicine jobs.

Job Summary