Application Open:
Full-Time
Job Purpose:
The Project Manager at MBZUAI is responsible for leading and overseeing the execution of complex research and development projects focused on advancing artificial intelligence technologies. This role involves fostering engagement within the research community, aligning project initiatives with MBZUAI’s strategic objectives, and ensuring seamless collaboration among cross-functional teams.
The Project Manager will be responsible for the end-to-end management of research and development projects, from planning and resource allocation to monitoring progress and addressing any arising issues. They will work closely with principal investigators, AI scientists, and engineering teams to define project scope, establish timelines, and allocate resources effectively. Additionally, the Project Manager will serve as the primary point of contact for internal and external stakeholders, facilitating communication and coordination to ensure successful project delivery.
Crucial to this role is the ability to anticipate and mitigate risks, manage budgets, and maintain project schedules to ensure that research and development initiatives are completed on time, within budget, and in alignment with MBZUAI’s strategic vision. The Project Manager will also be responsible for implementing robust project management methodologies and best practices to drive efficiency, quality, and continuous improvement in the research and development processes.
Ultimately, the Project Manager will play a pivotal role in advancing MBZUAI’s mission of promoting groundbreaking AI research and fostering collaborative partnerships within the AI research and development ecosystem.
Key Responsibilities:
- Strategic Planning
- Contribute to the development and implementation of research strategies that align with MBZUAI’s goals and priorities, enhancing the university’s leadership in AI research and innovation.
- Participate in the formulation of research and development plans, identifying key focus areas and aligning AI research activities with institutional objectives.
- AI Research Project Management
- Plan, execute, and oversee the completion of AI research and development projects, including setting project goals, developing comprehensive project plans, coordinating cross-functional team activities, and ensuring projects are delivered on time, within scope, budget, and quality standards.
- Effectively allocate resources, monitor project progress, and implement corrective measures to achieve the desired research outcomes.
- Partnership Development and Stakeholder Engagement
- Foster strong relationships and collaboration with internal stakeholders, such as AI researchers, domain experts, and technical teams, as well as external partners, including industry, academia, and funding bodies.
- Communicate project updates, seek feedback, and ensure the needs and expectations of all stakeholders are met throughout the project lifecycle.
- Communication and Reporting
- The Project Manager will be responsible for clear and effective communication throughout the project lifecycle.
- Preparing and presenting detailed project reports, providing regular updates to stakeholders, and facilitating open and transparent communication within the project team.
- Budget Management
- Work closely with the finance department to develop project budgets, monitor expenditures, and ensure financial efficiency throughout the AI research and development projects.
- Risk Management
- Identify potential risks that could impact the AI research projects and develop robust risk mitigation strategies to ensure the projects stay on track.
- Implement comprehensive risk management processes and contingency plans to address any arising challenges.
- Quality Assurance
- Ensure all AI research projects adhere to the highest standards of quality, ethics, and compliance, including the implementation of quality control processes, monitoring of project outcomes, and timely corrective actions.
- Other Duties
- Carry out all other duties as reasonably directed by the Line Manager, to support the department and MBZUAI’s objectives.
Academic Qualification:
- Master’s degree in a relevant field, such as Computer Science, Artificial Intelligence, Machine Learning, Data Science, Information Technology, Engineering (Electrical, Computer, or Software), or Operations Research.
Professional Experience:
- Minimum of 12 years of hands-on experience in project management, research development, or academic administration.
- Professional certifications such as Project Management Professional (PMP) or Agile Project Management.
- Preference for candidates with prior experience in managing or participating in AI-focused research and development projects.
- Understanding of AI research methodologies, tools, and best practices.
- The candidate should have a good understanding of AI and machine learning principles, algorithms, and applications.
- Familiarity with AI/ML development tools, frameworks, and programming languages.
- Strong business acumen and the ability to understand the strategic priorities of the organization.
- Proven expertise in successfully steering research projects, securing funding, and cultivating partnerships within a research-intensive environment.
- Excellent communication, interpersonal, and stakeholder management skills.
Preferred:
- Master’s degree in a relevant field, such as Computer Science, Artificial Intelligence, Machine Learning, Data Science, Information Technology, Engineering (Electrical, Computer, or Software), or Operations Research.
- Background in distinguished research-based universities or institutions renowned for their research prowess and innovation.
- Strong publication track record, research portfolio, and involvement in research grant applications in collaboration with external stakeholders.
