Academic ConnectChair in Generative Artificial Intelligence - VUW Executive Job
About the Role and Institution Te Herenga Waka - Victoria University of Wellington (VUW), New Zealand’s leading research university, is seeking a visionary leader for the Bob Dykes Chair in Generative Artificial Intelligence. This prestigious three-year, fixed-term role is designed to drive innovation and leadership in Generative AI, fostering collaboration among students, staff, and startups to transform businesses both nationally and globally. As part of the Te Whiri Kawe - Centre for Data Science and Artificial Intelligence and the School of Engineering and Computer Science, you will lead groundbreaking research, mentor postgraduate students, and shape the future of AI applications in business and governance. Candidate Requirements and Benefits The ideal candidate will hold a PhD in a relevant field, demonstrate a strong research impact, and possess exceptional teaching and leadership skills. Experience in both academia and industry is essential, along with a passion for inspiring students and advancing AI innovation. Located in Wellington, New Zealand, this role offers the chance to work in a dynamic, interdisciplinary environment at the forefront of global AI advancements. Discover more about this exciting opportunity below.
- Are you a visionary leader in the field of Generative Artificial Intelligence?
- Do you have a passion for advancing New Zealand's capacity in AI?
- Have you got an interest in this three-year, fixed-term role?
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Kōrero mō te tūranga - About the role
Te Herenga Waka - Victoria University of Wellington is currently seeking applications for the Bob Dykes Chair of Generative Artificial Intelligence to create a lightning rod for talent by bringing together students, staff, and startups, which will be part of an ecosystem that will transform business nationally and internationally.
The successful applicant will be appointed to inject expertise and exceptional leadership into a pioneering role with terms of employment to be negotiated based on experience and expertise. The appointee will be an effective and supportive member of Te Whiri Kawe - Centre for Data Science and Artificial Intelligence and Te Kura Mātai Pūkaha, Pūrorohiko - School of Engineering and Computer Science, and report to the Tumuaki - Head of School.
You will lead, initiate, and sustain effective discussions about generative AI use, impacts, and oversight in New Zealand, and assemble a multidisciplinary group of expert advisors from Government, University, industry, and user communities. This is a fantastic opportunity to be a leader who supports the development of new IP and trains a cohort of excellent postgraduate researchers in Generative AI, while also supporting interdisciplinary research on ways to deploy AI to improve New Zealand’s business services and governance and manage the socially disruptive changes of AI, including the likely consequences on employment.
Ō pūmanawa - About you
The successful applicant will have the following:
- PhD in relevant field is desirable
- A strong record of research impact
- Excellent teaching skills and a passion for inspiring students
- Experience in industry and academia, demonstrating a deep understanding of the field
- Strong interpersonal and communication skills
Ētahi kōrero hai āwhina i a koe - Why you should join our team
The University is transforming as the tertiary sector embraces and responds to challenges, including reorganisation of the sector and the research funding environment. This is a unique opportunity to involve students, staff, and startups, to create a dynamic ecosystem that transforms businesses across the globe, while exploring innovative generative AI applications to ensure Aotearoa is positioned at the forefront of global advancements.
Role description - Click here to see further information, including salary information.
Close date for vacancy: Sunday, 16 March 2025.
Contact details for vacancy
If you have any questions regarding this role, please get in touch with Professor Mengjie Zhang (mengjie.zhang@vuw.ac.nz).
There are many benefits to working at Te Herenga Waka - Victoria University of Wellington, including being part of New Zealand's top research University.
Click "apply" and follow the process to enter your contact details, answer pre-screening questions, then you will need to attach a resume and cover letter along with any supporting documents.
Applicants who do not have residency or citizenship and require a visa to work at the University must clearly indicate their visa status in their application and understand that if they do not have a current, relevant visa, they will need to secure this independently.
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