Department of Data Science and Artificial Intelligence
Head of Department of Data Science and Artificial Intelligence
(Ref. 240308018)
The Department of Data Science and Artificial Intelligence (DSAI) is a multi-disciplinary department to be established with effect from 1 July 2024 and temporarily hosted under the Faculty of Engineering with a plan to transfer to a new Faculty to be established later. DSAI will be at the forefront of cutting-edge technology and innovation, driving forward the fields of Data Science (DS) and Artificial Intelligence (AI). The Department envisions to cultivate a comprehensive curriculum that encompasses key research pillars such as Big Data Analytics and Management, Machine Learning and Optimization, Deep Learning, Biometrics Processing, Natural Language Processing, Computer Vision and Graphics, and Bioinformatics. There will be around 25 academic or teaching staff, and 16 technical or administrative personnel in the Department.
The University is now inviting applications and nominations for the post of Head of Department of Data Science and Artificial Intelligence. The successful candidate will be appointed Chair Professor/Professor normally on regular terms of appointment (equivalent to tenured professorship), commensurate with his/her qualifications and experience, and will hold a concurrent headship appointment. The concurrent headship appointment is normally for an aggregate period of six years in two three-year terms of office. Other suitable candidate(s) from the search, if deemed appropriate by the University, may be appointed Chair Professor/Professor if not as Head of Department.
Job Functions
The position calls for a visionary academic leader with responsibilities of ensuring the smooth and successful operation and sustainable development of the Department. Reporting directly to the Dean of Faculty of Engineering, the appointee will be required to:
(a) provide effective leadership in the development of long-term strategies and plans of the Department, in alignment with the University’s Strategic Plan; and coach and empower subordinates so that they can accomplish planned objectives with world-class standards and in an effective and efficient manner;
(b) ensure high-quality teaching as well as holistic development of the students, and align the Department’s programmes with the needs of the community;
(c) facilitate the conduct of innovative and original research of high quality and impact, and promote and develop genuine interdisciplinary / departmental research with the optimal use of research funds;
(d) provide leadership in technology development, commercialisation and entrepreneurship initiatives to extend the impact of research outcomes of the University to the community;
(e) provide leadership in developing a strong network of partnership with leading tertiary institutions for opportunities and collaboration in education, research and knowledge transfer activities;
(f) enhance the local and international networks of partnerships and linkages with the community, particularly the professional, public and business sectors, so as to gain their support for the major strategic initiatives of the University;
(g) ensure effective internal communication that leads to a transparent decision-making process and promote the Department’s strengths and other services to all relevant stakeholders;
(h) ensure optimal deployment of human, financial and other resources in the Department;
(i) implement an effective mechanism to acquire donations and other forms of sponsorship to support the University’s pursuits and long-term development; and
(j) undertake other duties as assigned by the Dean of Faculty or the Central Management Team of the University from time to time.
Qualifications
Applicants should have:
(a) academic qualifications at the doctoral level in a relevant academic discipline, evidence of eminent scholarship and substantial relevant experience in a senior academic position, and relevant professional qualification and registration where appropriate;
(b) attainment of an academic rank of full professor or above at an internationally recognised university;
(c) a distinguished international reputation in research and scholarship, and demonstrated international leadership in any one or more of the specialist areas, namely (i) Machine Learning and Optimization; (ii) Big Data Analytics and Management; (iii) Computer Vision and Graphics; (iv) Biometrics Processing; (v) AI for Science; and (vi) AI for Healthcare;
(d) a strong record in attracting competitive research funding and working with industry;
(e) a demonstrated commitment to excellence in teaching;
(f) a global perspective, proven qualities of academic leadership and substantial administration / management experience, as well as the demonstrated ability of building up a strong team of faculty members with different research and cultural backgrounds;
(g) effective interpersonal communication and resources management skills, and excellent adaptability to changes and challenges;
(h) good knowledge of the higher educational environment in the local and global context; and
(i) a high standard of personal integrity.
Experience in fund-raising will be an additional advantage.
Conditions of Service
Terms of appointment and remuneration package are negotiable and highly competitive. For general information on terms and conditions for appointment of academic staff in the University, please visit the website at https://www.polyu.edu.hk/hro/docdrive/careers/doc/Prof.pdf.
Application and Nomination
The University invites applications and nominations for this appointment. Please submit an application by clicking the “Apply Now” button below. Candidature may also be recommended by nominations via email to the Chairman of the Search Committee for recruitment of Head of Department of Data Science and Artificial Intelligence at hrscdsai@polyu.edu.hk. General information about the University is available at https://www.polyu.edu.hk or from the Human Resources Office [Tel: (852) 2766 6562].
Consideration of applications and nominations will commence in mid-May 2024 until the position is filled.
Posting date: 8 March 2024