Executive Director

About HBKU:

Hamad Bin Khalifa University (HBKU), a member of Qatar Foundation for Education, Science, and Community Development (QF), was founded in 2010 to continue fulfilling QFs vision of unlocking human potential. HBKU is a homegrown research-intensive University, offering undergraduate and graduate degrees, that acts as a catalyst for positive transformation in Qatar and the region while having a global impact.

Doha is the home of Education City (https://www.qf.org.qa/education/higher-education), a dedicated campus devoted to research and education. In addition to HBKU, the Education City campus hosts other academic institutions, including Weill Cornell Medicine-Qatar, Carnegie Mellon University, Virginia Commonwealth University, Northwestern University, and Georgetown University. Education City has significantly contributed to the development of post-secondary education and cultural growth in Qatar.

About the Qatar Computing Research Institute

The Qatar Computing Research Institute (QCRI) at Hamad Bin Khalifa University (HBKU) focuses on research in computer science and artificial intelligence with the aim of supporting the transition of Qatar to a knowledge-based economy and having a global impact in select computing research areas.

Founded in 2010, QCRI has rapidly developed into a globally recognized research authority in various domains, including Arabic Natural Language Processing and Generation, Cybersecurity, Health Informatics, and Social Computing. Most recently, QCRI is known for spearheading Qatars AI sovereign initiative, including the in-house development of Fanar, a leading Arabic-centric Multimodal AI model. Several research projects from QCRI have evolved into successful commercial ventures with global footprints. Underpinning the applied mission of QCRI is strong foundational research in artificial intelligence, data management systems, cybersecurity, and bioinformatics. Currently, the institute has four groups with a strong cross-collaboration history:

• Arabic Language Technology (ALT).
• Cybersecurity (CS)
• Qatar Center for Artificial Intelligence (QCAI)
• Research Engineering (RE)

Position:

QCRI is seeking an Executive Director to provide strategic and visionary leadership in high-priority areas of computer science and artificial intelligence. Preference will be given to candidates with a clear, uninterrupted, and active research track record in computing-related disciplines, along with a strong awareness of emerging developments in AI. The Executive Director is responsible for advancing QCRIs research excellence, innovation, and global impact. This includes setting the institutes strategic research direction, fostering a dynamic and collaborative research environment, securing diverse funding sources, and strengthening partnerships with leading universities, research centers, industry partners, and global technology companies. The Executive Director oversees the institutes budget, recruitment, and mentorship activities.

Job Description:

• The Executive Director should articulate a clear and compelling vision that leverages emerging global trends while capitalizing on strategic opportunities in Qatar and the broader region. The Executive Director is expected to:
• Develop and implement a research strategy aligned with HBKU, Qatar Foundation, national priorities, and global scientific opportunities.
• Provide scientific and organizational leadership to advance QCRIs mission and research excellence.
• Lead interdisciplinary, mission-driven research programs that address national and global challenges.
• Build strategic partnerships with industry, government, academia, and leading global technology organizations.
• Strengthen QCRIs international reputation through scientific leadership, collaborations, and major research initiatives.
• Drive research impact through publications, technologies, platforms, products, and contributions to policy and practice.
• Expand external funding and strategic investments to support research growth and sustainability.
• Promote and lead collaboration across HBKU, Qatar Foundation, and external partners to maximize research and innovation impact.
• Recruit, develop, and retain outstanding researchers and promote a high-performance research culture.
• Mentor and support the development of early-career researchers and emerging scientific leaders, with particular emphasis on building local research talent.

Minimum Knowledge, Skills & Experience:

• Ph.D. in Computer Science or a closely related field, with an internationally recognized record of research excellence and scientific impact. Extensive progressive experience in research and technology development and in overseeing large-scale programs and teams. Demonstrated experience in leading and managing research, innovation, and technology development projects. Proven ability to build, lead, mentor, and motivate high-performing multidisciplinary research teams. Strong understanding of national and international frameworks, policies, and ethical considerations related to computing, artificial intelligence, and digital technologies.
• Excellent communication and stakeholder engagement skills; proficiency in Arabic is an advantage.

How to Apply:

The application packet must include:

• A letter of interest (2 pages or shorter) describing the applicants vision and professional experience regarding the described qualifications.
• Current curriculum vitae.
• Five professional references with email and telephone numbers (references will not be contacted without prior authorization from the applicant)

Additional information may be requested upon receipt of the application. Applications will be accepted until the position is filled.

Please send queries and application materials for Internal: HBKU Carrer Website

For external postings,

Science Careers: https://jobs.sciencecareers.org/

Chronicle: https://www.chronicle.com/

Higher Ed Jobs: https://www.higheredjobs.com/

Deadline:

Applications will be reviewed immediately and continue on a rolling basis until the position is filled. Shortlisted candidates will be contacted for interviews.

Applications are accepted immediately for review. The successful candidate must be ready to start in March 2027.

Remuneration:

HBKU offers an attractive compensation package that includes a tax-free salary and additional benefits such as an accommodation allowance, annual paid leave, and medical insurance.

Hamad Bin Khalifa University is an equal opportunity educator and employer. We are committed to maintaining culturally and academically diverse staff of the highest caliber.

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