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:

1. 1- 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.
2. 2- 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.
3. 3- 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.
4. 4- 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.
5. 5- 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.
6. 6- 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.
7. 7- 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.
8. 8- 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.