Executive Director, Qatar Computing Research Institute (QCRI)

About Hamad Bin Khalifa University

Established in 2010 as part of the Qatar Foundation for Education, Science, and Community Development, Hamad Bin Khalifa University (HBKU) pursues Qatar’s vision of unlocking human potential through research and graduate studies. HBKU serves as a catalyst for transformative development both locally and globally.

About Qatar Computing Research Institute (QCRI)

QCRI, an integral institute of HBKU, is dedicated to advancing computer science and artificial intelligence research to support Qatar’s transition into a knowledge-based economy and to have a global technological impact. Founded in 2010, it encompasses several specialized research groups focusing on Arabic language technology, cybersecurity, artificial intelligence, and research engineering. Notably, QCRI leads Qatar’s AI sovereign initiative and developed an Arabic-centric multimodal AI model called Fanar. Its research outputs have also led to successful commercial ventures worldwide.

Position Overview

QCRI is seeking an Executive Director to provide visionary leadership in strategic research areas of computer science and AI. This senior role demands an uninterrupted proven record in computing research alongside awareness of emerging AI trends. The Executive Director will govern the institute’s strategic direction, foster a vibrant collaborative research environment, secure funding, and cultivate partnerships with academia, industry, government, and global tech organizations. Overseeing budget, recruitment, and mentoring activities also fall within this role.

Key Duties and Responsibilities

• Formulate and execute research strategies that align with HBKU’s mission, Qatar’s national priorities, and global scientific progress.
• Provide scientific and organizational leadership to drive QCRI’s research excellence.
• Lead interdisciplinary, mission-focused research programs addressing national and global challenges.
• Forge strategic partnerships with government bodies, industry leaders, academic institutions, and technology companies worldwide.
• Enhance QCRI’s international standing through research collaboration, leadership, and high-impact initiatives.
• Ensure research output translates into publications, innovative technologies, products, and policy contributions.
• Grow external funding sources and strategic investments for research sustainability and expansion.
• Champion collaboration across HBKU, Qatar Foundation, and external partners to maximize innovation impact.
• Recruit, nurture, and retain top-tier researchers and cultivate a culture of scientific excellence.
• Mentor early-career researchers and emerging leaders with a focus on developing local talent.

Required Qualifications and Experience

• A Ph.D. in Computer Science or a closely related discipline with a globally recognized research record and high scientific impact.
• Substantial leadership experience managing large-scale research programs and multidisciplinary teams.
• Demonstrated ability to lead innovation and technology development projects.
• Proven skills in building, motivating, and mentoring high-performing research groups.
• Strong knowledge of international and national policies, ethical standards related to computing, AI, and digital technology.
• Excellent communication and stakeholder engagement capabilities; Arabic language skills are advantageous.

Application Process

Applicants should submit a letter of interest highlighting their vision and qualifications (maximum two pages), an up-to-date CV, and contact information for five professional referees. Additional documentation may be requested subsequently. Applications are accepted on a rolling basis until the role is filled, and shortlisted candidates will be invited for interviews. The appointed candidate is expected to commence work in March 2027.

Compensation and Benefits

HBKU offers a competitive, tax-free salary package complemented by benefits such as accommodation allowance, paid annual leave, and medical insurance.

Equal Opportunity Statement

Hamad Bin Khalifa University promotes cultural and academic diversity and is committed to equal employment opportunities.