Ruwwad AI Scholars (RAIS) Postdoctoral Fellowship Program

About MBZUAI Mohamed bin Zayed University of Artificial Intelligence (MBZUAI) is a research-focused university in Abu Dhabi, and the first university dedicated entirely to the advancement of science through AI. The university empowers the next generation of AI leaders, driving innovation and impactful applications of AI through world-class education and interdisciplinary research.

About the Program The Office of Faculty Excellence and Postdoctoral Affairs (OFEPA) at MBZUAI invites applications for Cohort II of the Ruwwad AI Scholars (RAIS) program. Culturally rooted in the UAE's pioneering ethos (رواد, "Pioneers"), Ruwwad AI Scholars is a national capacity-building postdoctoral fellowship strengthening the UAE faculty pipeline in artificial intelligence and computational research.

RAIS advances Emirati talent by funding and supporting outstanding researchers in cutting-edge appointments at top research institutions globally. Through dual mentorship and international exposure, the program cultivates future leaders who bring global expertise and networks back to the UAE. Location : At a leading research university outside the UAE, selected by the fellow.

Fully funded and supported by MBZUAI. Duration : 24 months, beginning Fall 2027 (or as stipulated by host institution) Fellowship Benefits Competitive compensation and benefits package aligned with top-tier academic markets Significant opportunities for professional development and travel to major conferences Structured pathway toward tenure-track faculty consideration at MBZUAI Program Structure Fellows engage in full-time postdoctoral research under host PI supervision.

Fields of study include Biological and Life Sciences; Computing and Mathematical Sciences; Humanities, Social, and Management Sciences; and Natural and Physical Sciences. Applicants should demonstrate an AI or computational focus in their proposed research. Dual Mentorship: Host PI provides research guidance. MBZUAI OFEPA provides career development support.

Performance Evaluation: Quarterly reviews assess research output, independence, and institutional alignment. This postdoctoral program provides structured, mentored training designed to strengthen the fellow’s scholarly profile and competitiveness for future tenure-track faculty appointments. Through demonstrated research productivity, teaching development, and professional performance, the program aims to prepare exceptional scholars to transition successfully into academic roles at the university or at peer institutions, thereby strengthening the long-term academic pipeline.

UAE national PhD in STEM/Humanities/Social Sciences completed between Fall 2024 and Spring 2027 Verified host PI letter confirming research alignment and commitment to host

Interested candidates should submit the following documents: Curriculum Vitae Research Statement (max 3 pages) Personal Statement (max 2 pages) Transcript of degree(s)- Unofficial transcript is acceptable if official is pending Two letters of recommendation Host PI Confirmation of Interest (template provided) upon application Final Signatory and verified host PI letter Publications (optional, if available) Applications received by January 30, 2027 receive priority consideration.

Final application deadline is February 27, 2027. Shortlisted candidates will be asked to upload their final signed Host PI Endorsement Letter Contact Iman Farah, Program Manager: RAIS@mbzuai.ac.ae