Bob Dykes Chair: Generative AI at Victoria University of Wellington - an AcademicJobs.com podcast

Victoria University of Wellington seeks a visionary leader as the Bob Dykes Chair in Generative Artificial Intelligence. This three-year fixed-term role involves creating an ecosystem of students, staff and start-ups to transform businesses. The successful applicant will spearhead discussions on generative AI's impact, assemble a multidisciplinary advisory group, and support research and development in this field. The role offers the chance to train postgraduate researchers and advance AI applications within New Zealand's business and governance sectors. Candidates should possess a PhD (desirable), a strong research record, teaching skills, and industry/academia experience. The University seeks someone to navigate the evolving tertiary sector and foster global advancements in AI, with applications closing on March 16, 2025.

Find this job right here.Leadership in Generative AI: The core focus is on leadership and vision in the field of generative AI. The successful candidate will be expected to be a "visionary leader" and "inject expertise and exceptional leadership" into the university. The posting emphasizes initiating and sustaining discussions about the use, impacts, and oversight of generative AI in New Zealand.

Ecosystem Development: A significant objective is the creation of a dynamic ecosystem involving students, staff, and startups. This ecosystem is intended to "transform business nationally and internationally." The chair will be key in bringing these groups together.

Research and Innovation: The role emphasizes the development of new IP and the training of postgraduate researchers in Generative AI. The successful candidate will support interdisciplinary research on how AI can improve New Zealand's business services and governance.

Addressing Societal Impact: The role recognises the potential social disruption caused by AI, particularly concerning employment. The chair will support research to "manage the socially disruptive changes of AI, including the likely consequences on employment."

Interdisciplinary Collaboration: The chair will be a member of both the Centre for Data Science and Artificial Intelligence and the School of Engineering and Computer Science, emphasizing the need for cross-disciplinary collaboration.

Contribution to New Zealand's Advancement: A major goal is to position "Aotearoa [New Zealand]" at the "forefront of global advancements" in generative AI.

Key Responsibilities (Inferred):

• Providing leadership in generative AI research and development.
• Building and nurturing a collaborative ecosystem involving students, staff, and startups.
• Securing research funding and attracting talent.
• Mentoring and supervising postgraduate researchers.
• Engaging with government, industry, and user communities.
• Addressing the ethical and societal implications of AI.
• Contributing to the university's academic programmes.

Required Skills and Experience:

• A PhD in a relevant field is desirable.
• A strong record of research impact.
• Excellent teaching skills and a passion for inspiring students.
• Experience in both industry and academia.
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills.

Important Dates and Contact Information:

• Application Close Date: Sunday, 16 March 2025.
• Contact: Professor Mengjie Zhang (mengjie.zhang@vuw.ac.nz).

Conclusion:

The Bob Dykes Chair in Generative Artificial Intelligence is a significant opportunity to shape the future of AI research, development, and application in New Zealand. The role requires a visionary leader with a strong research background, excellent communication skills, and a passion for fostering collaboration between academia, industry, and government. The focus on ethical considerations and societal impact highlights the importance of responsible AI development.