AI @ UVA

Call for Applications: Director, AI Research@UVA Initiative

Application Deadline: September 15, 2025, at 11:59 PM

Anticipated Start Date: Early October 2025 

Term Length: Two years, 20-40% FTE

The Provost’s Office invites applications from current faculty members to serve as the inaugural director of the AI Research@UVA initiative and Special Advisor to the Provost on AI Research. This leadership position reports jointly to the Executive Vice President & Provost and the Vice President for Research. The Director will help guide and grow UVA’s AI research strategy, community, and portfolio. Learn more about AI @ UVA.

Position Overview

We seek a current faculty member at the Associate or Full Professor level with demonstrated expertise in AI or AI-related research (including the development of fundamental AI technology, the application of AI tools to particular domains, or the study of AI’s effects on society). The successful candidate will provide visionary leadership, foster interdisciplinary collaboration, and engage both internal and external stakeholders to expand the reach and impact of UVA’s AI research. 

This university-wide role is a 12-month position and requires AI expertise, strong administrative skills, and a collaborative ethos to help build and shape the future of AI research at UVA.

Key Responsibilities and Opportunities

In this role, the director will have an opportunity to

  • Work with faculty members, deans, and other leaders to develop and articulate vision and strategy for AI-related research across Grounds.
  • Serve as an advisor to the Vice President for Research, the Provost, and the President on AI research strategy.
  • Convene and develop a vibrant AI research community across Grounds through events and programs.  
  • Foster interdisciplinary collaboration across the University by connecting faculty members, departments, and existing AI-related institutes and initiatives.
  • Provide guidance on new and existing university-wide AI programs, including AI Catalyst and the AI Commonwealth Chairs.
  • Help promote funding opportunities, grants, and other resources for AI-related research.
  • Collaborate with university communications staff to share UVA’s AI strengths, innovation, and impact with internal and external audiences.
  • Strengthen partnerships with external stakeholders, including industry, government, and other research institutions.
  • Ensure the University’s participation and leadership in shaping AI research and policy initiatives across the Commonwealth.

Qualifications

  • Current or incoming UVA faculty member at the Associate or Full Professor level
  • Demonstrated expertise in artificial intelligence or AI-related research
  • Strong organizational skills and leadership experience
  • The ability to communicate technical concepts effectively to diverse audiences
  • A collaborative spirit

Compensation and Effort

We will work with the selected candidate to ensure that the candidate has the necessary bandwidth and appropriate compensation for what is anticipated to be an 11 or 12-month 20-40% effort appointment. The specific amount of effort, compensation, and pay and mechanism(s) will depend on the individual who is selected and the current terms of their employment and may include a course buy out, summer salary, or an administrative supplement.  The provost’s office will consult with school leadership on these issues and the candidate’s dean must approve the final arrangement, which will be memorialized in an MOU. 

Application Process

To apply, please submit the following materials via email to Carolyn Leddy:

  • Cover Letter outlining your interest, vision for AI Research@UVA, and leadership experience
  • Curriculum Vitae

Deadline: September 15, 2025, at 11:59 PM

Start Date: Early October 2025 (anticipated)