Community mourns NYUAD post-doc researcher after fatal car accident

Dr Xiangyu Wang, a post-doctoral researcher at New York University Abu Dhabi, passed away in a car accident in the city of Abu Dhabi at the end of September. The university community is deeply saddened by his loss. Wang had been a doctoral student in Professor Kemal Celik's laboratory at the Advanced Materials and Building Efficiency Research Laboratory (Amber Lab) for eight years before moving on to a postdoctoral position within NYUAD's Shores Centre.

There, his research concentrated on sustainable development challenges in desert environments. Colleagues recall Wang not only for his intellectual prowess but also for his generous nature and unwavering support for his peers. Prof Celik, who mentored Wang, praised him as a "quietly brilliant" and "endlessly generous" colleague who always lifted the entire lab with his warmth and positivity.

University leaders Fabio Piano and Marta Losada also expressed their grief, highlighting Wang's international outlook, exceptional potential, and commitment to addressing both local and global issues. They described him as an exceptionally talented early-career researcher who was tirelessly pursuing advancements in sustainable and innovative construction technologies.

In response to Wang's passing, fellow researchers and community members are planning a memorial service to honor his life and contributions.