Generative AI at Victoria University of Wellington1 source

Victoria University of Wellington seeks a visionary leader as the Bob Dykes Chair in Generative Artificial Intelligence. This three-year fixed-term role involves creating an ecosystem of students, staff and start-ups to transform businesses. The successful applicant will spearhead discussions on generative AI's impact, assemble a multidisciplinary advisory group, and support research and development in this field. The role offers the chance to train postgraduate researchers and advance AI applications within New Zealand's business and governance sectors. Candidates should possess a PhD (desirable), a strong research record, teaching skills, and industry/academia experience. The University seeks someone to navigate the evolving tertiary sector and foster global advancements in AI, with applications closing on March 16, 2025.

• Leadership in Generative AI: The core focus is on leadership and vision in the field of generative AI. The successful candidate will be expected to be a "visionary leader" and "inject expertise and exceptional leadership" into the university. The posting emphasizes initiating and sustaining discussions about the use, impacts, and oversight of generative AI in New Zealand.
• Ecosystem Development: A significant objective is the creation of a dynamic ecosystem involving students, staff, and startups. This ecosystem is intended to "transform business nationally and internationally." The chair will be key in bringing these groups together.
• Research and Innovation: The role emphasizes the development of new IP and the training of postgraduate researchers in Generative AI. The successful candidate will support interdisciplinary research on how AI can improve New Zealand's business services and governance.
• Addressing Societal Impact: The role recognises the potential social disruption caused by AI, particularly concerning employment. The chair will support research to "manage the socially disruptive changes of AI, including the likely consequences on employment."
• Interdisciplinary Collaboration: The chair will be a member of both the Centre for Data Science and Artificial Intelligence and the School of Engineering and Computer Science, emphasizing the need for cross-disciplinary collaboration. They will also assemble "a multidisciplinary group of expert advisors from Government, University, industry, and user communities."
• Contribution to New Zealand's Advancement: A major goal is to position "Aotearoa [New Zealand]" at the "forefront of global advancements" in generative AI.

Key Responsibilities (Inferred):

• Providing leadership in generative AI research and development.
• Building and nurturing a collaborative ecosystem involving students, staff, and startups.
• Securing research funding and attracting talent.
• Mentoring and supervising postgraduate researchers.
• Engaging with government, industry, and user communities.
• Addressing the ethical and societal implications of AI.
• Contributing to the university's academic programmes.

Required Skills and Experience:

• A PhD in a relevant field is desirable.
• A strong record of research impact.
• Excellent teaching skills and a passion for inspiring students.
• Experience in both industry and academia.
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills.

Important Dates and Contact Information:

• Application Close Date: Sunday, 16 March 2025.

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See this Job on AcademicJobs.com

VUW Careers: Opportunities at Victoria University of Wellington - an AcademicJobs.com podcast

Victoria University of Wellington (VUW) is presented as a world-class institution committed to research, global impact, and a future-focused vision. This podcast highlights the university's supportive and inclusive culture, offering staff numerous benefits beyond salary, including professional development and work-life balance initiatives. AcademicJobs.com details VUW's employee benefits, mentioning health and wellbeing programmes. Finally, it provides a clear four-step guide on how to apply for job openings, encouraging prospective employees to explore available roles and submit tailored applications.

Globally Ranked and Research-Focused Institution:

• VUW is consistently ranked among the top 2% of universities globally and is renowned for its academic excellence and innovative research.
• "Founded in 1897, Victoria University of Wellington (VUW) has established itself as a world-class institution, consistently ranked among the top 2% of universities globally."
• The university is a "research powerhouse" driving breakthroughs in climate change, health sciences, AI, and indigenous studies. This suggests that research-oriented roles are highly valued and encouraged.

Emphasis on Workplace Culture and Values:

• VUW promotes a "dynamic, inclusive, and collaborative working environment."
• The institution values diversity and actively promotes equity through various initiatives (Māori and Pacific staff networks, gender equity programs, accessibility support).

Commitment to Employee Wellbeing and Work-Life Balance:

• VUW offers flexible working arrangements, wellness programs, and access to recreational facilities.
• There is a "strong focus on sustainability," aligning with contemporary employee expectations around corporate social responsibility.

Professional Development and Career Growth:

• VUW invests in employee growth through training programs, workshops, conferences, mentorship, and leadership training.
• "We invest in your growth with access to world-class training programs, workshops, and conferences."
• The institution also focuses on interdisciplinary collaboration which opens the door to new projects and partnerships.

Employee Benefits Beyond Salary:

• A range of benefits include, discounts on campus facilities, cultural engagement, and volunteer and community engagement.
• "At Victoria University of Wellington (VUW), we believe in supporting our staff holistically, offering a range of benefits that go beyond salary to enhance your professional growth, personal wellbeing, and work-life balance."

Location and Campus Environment:

• The campus is situated in Wellington, New Zealand's vibrant capital city, and boasts a blend of natural beauty and urban energy.
• The environment inspires creativity and productivity with "modern, state-of-the-art facilities to tranquil green spaces."
• "Nestled in the heart of Wellington, New Zealand’s vibrant capital city, our campus offers a stunning blend of natural beauty and urban energy."

Straightforward Application Process:

• The application process is transparent and managed through the VUW careers website.
• The document outlines the steps involved, from exploring job opportunities to submitting the application and staying connected.
• "Joining Victoria University of Wellington (VUW) means becoming part of a world-class institution that values innovation, diversity, and excellence. If you’re ready to take the next step in your career, we make the application process straightforward and transparent."

• VUW is a balanced perspective would require further investigation from external sources such as employee reviews and independent reporting.

• The emphasis on addressing global challenges and contributing to a better world appeals to candidates seeking purpose-driven employment.

Find VUW jobs at AcademicJobs.com

New Zealand University Jobs - an AcademicJobs..com Podcast

This AcademicJobs..com ⁠Podcast explores New Zealand university job opportunities, academic jobs and university higher education staff roles. It features listings for various positions across multiple universities, including professorships, research roles, and administrative jobs. The AcademicJobs..com ⁠Podcast also promotes its "Academic Connect" platform for networking and job searching. Information on all New Zealand universities is provided, highlighting their specialisations and rankings. The overall aim is to connect job seekers with academic opportunities throughout the country.

NZ Uni Jobs Categories: The website clearly indicates a range of academic and administrative roles are available, suggesting a diverse job market within New Zealand's universities. Specific roles highlighted include:

• Adjunct Professor Jobs
• Research Jobs
• Professor Jobs
• Lecturer Jobs
• Administration Jobs
• Executive
• HR Jobs
• PhD Jobs
• Staff/Admin This demonstrates that opportunities are not limited to teaching or research roles, but also extend to management and support positions.

1. Key Universities in New Zealand: The website lists eight major universities in New Zealand, emphasizing their presence in the academic job market. These institutions, listed with links include:

• Massey University
• AUT University (Auckland University of Technology)
• University of Auckland
• University of Waikato
• Victoria University of Wellington (VUW)
• University of Otago
• Lincoln University
• University of Canterbury This highlights the key institutions to focus on when pursuing a higher education career in the country.

NZ Universities List & Characteristics:

• Massey University: Described as a "public research university that offers a wide range of degrees including Aviation, veterinary medicine and nano science.”
• AUT University: Identified as the second largest university in New Zealand with "over 115 undergraduate programs.”
• University of Auckland: Highlighted as the “highest ranked university in NZ, known for its excellence in research, teaching and global engagement.”
• University of Waikato: Noted for its research impact in NZ and “degree programs across 100 subjects.”
• Victoria University of Wellington: Presented as “NZ's oldest and most prestigious tertiary institutions with a proud tradition of academic excellence.”
• University of Otago: Characterised as one of NZ’s oldest universities, providing a "research-led learning environment with a richly deserved reputation for excellence.”
• Lincoln University: Distinguished as a "uniquely specialised land-based university," emphasizing personalised attention and support for applied learning.
• University of Canterbury: Described as a public research university offering over "150 programmes in diverse disciplines.” These descriptions allow job seekers to target their applications to universities that align with their interests and qualifications.

NZ Job Search Resources: The website positions itself as a "top job platform for higher education recruitment in New Zealand", which is a useful resource for those interested in university jobs. They also promote "Academic Connect", described as "our exclusive referral platform," which aims to fast-track job searches by connecting professionals and providing tailored recommendations. These features aim to streamline the application process and suggest that networking is beneficial.

Higher Ed Jobs in New Zealand: Start your academic career in New Zealand today! Search NZ Uni job opportunities and apply to what suits you.

Find Your Next Career in NZ with Academic Jobs - your gateway to employment opportunities in NZ.

• "Explore top academic staff positions at leading universities across New Zealand” - Emphasizes the prestige of the institutions and positions being advertised.