UAE: Want to study space, stars? This university is now offering PhD

Programme with two interconnected tracks in Astrophysics and Space Systems to prepare students for industry and exploration

Read more...

Published: Wed 8 Jan 2025, 4:34 PM

Last updated: Wed 8 Jan 2025, 9:11 PM

A university in the UAE has introduced a pioneering PhD programme in Astrophysics and Space Systems.

This five-year programme, a first of its kind in the region, is fully based in Abu Dhabi and will be led by international scholars and researchers at NYU Abu Dhabi (NYUAD).

Participants can choose between two distinct tracks: Astrophysics, focusing on theoretical studies, or Space Systems, which emphasises engineering. Both tracks aim to equip students for careers in academia, the expanding space industry, and the field of space exploration.

Advertising
Advertising

Stay up to date with the latest news. Follow KT on WhatsApp Channels.

“As an astronaut, I have witnessed the transformative power of education and innovation in space science as catalysts for progress on Earth and beyond,” said Emirati astronaut Sultan Al Neyadi, who is also the UAE Minister of Youth. “This programme will create a vital talent pipeline to advance our national space strategy while inspiring future generations to push boundaries, explore new frontiers, and contribute to humanity's collective ambitions.”

Kicking off in the fall semester of 2025, the programme will access the broad range of expertise at NYU Abu Dhabi, training scientists and engineers needed to help design and analyse the data from future space missions.

“The launch of the Astrophysics and Space Systems PhD programme completes the chain for space education at all academic levels in the UAE,” said Salem Butti Al Qubaisi, Director General of the UAE Space Agency. “Space research and education are central to the UAE's vision for driving knowledge and fostering innovation. This PhD program represents a significant step forward in strengthening the UAE's position in the space sector.”

Senior members of the university noted that the establishment of this programme underscores the university’s unwavering commitment to advancing academic excellence and innovation in fields critical to the UAE and the future of humanity.

NYUAD Provost Arlie Petters, the chief academic officer, said, “By harnessing our world-class research facilities, interdisciplinary expertise, and collaborations with leading space agencies, we are preparing our students to lead in the burgeoning UAE space sector. This programme elevates NYUAD’s standing as a hub for groundbreaking research and education and aligns with our mission to cultivate talent that will drive the UAE’s ambitious vision for space exploration and technological leadership.”

Programme details

A distinct feature of the program is its robust research component, in which students will complete a three-year research project, culminating in a PhD thesis. Through coursework and research, students will learn how to devise, execute, and complete complex tasks.

Andrea V Macciò

Andrea V Macciò, Professor of Physics and Director of NYU Abu Dhabi’s Centre for Astrophysics and Space Science, who will head the programme, said, “This PhD programme represents a significant milestone for space research and education at NYU Abu Dhabi. Humanity’s fascination with the stars predates recorded history, and our recent advancements in exploring the cosmos have revolutionised global communication and environmental monitoring."

"These transformative technologies stem directly from breakthroughs in understanding phenomena ranging from subatomic particles to the largest galaxy clusters. Through this programme, we aim to cultivate the next generation of scientists and researchers, equipping them to lead the future of scientific space exploration.”

ALSO READ:

Published: Wed 8 Jan 2025, 4:34 PM

Last updated: Wed 8 Jan 2025, 9:11 PM

Recommended for you