Executive Director Computing Research Institute

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 QCRI’s research excellence, innovation, and global impact.

This includes setting the institute’s 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 institute’s budget, recruitment, and mentorship activities.

• Develop and implement a research strategy aligned with HBKU, Qatar Foundation, national priorities, and global scientific opportunities.
• Provide scientific and organizational leadership to advance QCRI’s 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 QCRI’s 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.

• 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.