Full Professor & AI Research and Innovation Institute Inaugural Executive Director - College of Computing

Grand Valley State University (GVSU) and the Van Andel Institute (VAI) invite applications for a Full Professor and Inaugural Executive Director to lead the newly established AI Research and Innovation Institute (AIRAI), a strategic partnership between GVSU’s College of Computing and the Van Andel Institute. The Executive Director will serve as the founding scientific and strategic leader of the AI Research and Innovation Institute, guiding its growth into a globally recognized center of excellence in artificial intelligence. The Full Professor position will be housed in GVSU’s College of Computing, with an adjunct appointment at the Van Andel Institute. Tenure may be offered at hire based on the candidate's qualifications. The Executive Director reports to the Dean of the GVSU College of Computing. The successful candidate will be an accomplished scholar and visionary leader with the ability to inspire researchers across disciplines, attract major investments, and build high-impact collaborations spanning academia, industry, healthcare, and government. We welcome candidates with deep expertise in machine learning (theory or applied), AI systems and infrastructure, computer vision, NLP or multimodal AI, data science and large-scale AI. We also seek candidates working at the intersection of AI and computational biology/bioinformatics, genomics, epigenomics, systems biology, clinical and/or translational research. Salary & Benefits:   Minimum 9-month academic year base salary of   $185,000 ,   commensurate   with experience   Additional compensation is available for summer responsibilities associated with serving as the Executive Director of the AI Research and Innovation Institute. Comprehensive benefits package   including medical, vision, dental, life insurance, generous employer retirement contributions, wellness   resources   and tuition waiver effective on date of hire.   Key Responsibilities Develop and execute a bold long-term vision for the institute Build internationally visible research programs in AI and AI-driven discovery Recruit and mentor world-class faculty, researchers, and doctoral students Position GVSU and VAI as global leaders in AI research and innovation Foster a culture of excellence, collaboration, entrepreneurship, and societal impact Advance the translation of AI discoveries into real-world solutions that improve human health and well-being Institute Leadership Define and execute an ambitious vision for a world-class AI research and innovation institute Lead a multidisciplinary research enterprise spanning AI, computing, and life sciences Establish AIRAI as a nationally and internationally recognized center of excellence Shape institute strategy, governance, and long-term sustainability Cultivate a culture of scientific excellence, innovation, and inclusion Represent the institute globally through partnerships, conferences, and strategic initiatives Research Development Build externally funded research programs in Core AI (ML, systems, multimodal AI) and AI applications (biomedical, life sciences, health, and beyond) Secure funding from NSF, NIH (AI for biomedical research), industry and foundations Faculty & Team Building Recruit and develop exceptional talent across: Foundational AI AI systems and infrastructure AI + biomedical sciences AI + health AI + emerging domains Build a vibrant intellectual community that encourages: Scientific excellence Interdisciplinary collaboration Entrepreneurship and technology transfer Responsible and human-centered AI innovation Partnerships & Ecosystem Building Strengthen collaboration with Van Andel Institute Build partnerships with healthcare systems, biotech and pharmaceutical companies, and AI and technology organizations Required Qualifications and Education Ph.D. and 10+ years of experience leading research teams in AI or related areas Demonstrated interest in advancing AI research in biomedical, life sciences, or societal challenges Record of excellence consistent with appointment at the rank of Full Professor Strong research record in AI, machine learning, or related areas Demonstrated success in securing external funding Experience leading research initiatives or teams Preferred Qualifications Demonstrated success building or scaling research centers, institutes, or large collaborative initiatives Experience leading multidisciplinary teams across institutions or sectors Record of mentoring faculty, post-docs and graduate students toward research excellence Experience translating research into societal, or economic impact Evidence of national or international scientific leadership Vision for shaping the future of AI research and graduate education How to Apply:   Applicants should submit: Curriculum Vitae Statement of research Statement of leadership vision (AI Research and Innovation Institute + Ph.D. program) Complete contact information for 3 references The system will allow you to attach up to 5 documents electronically. If you have questions about the position or the posting, please contact  Alison Hodgson [email protected] .   If you need technical assistance, please contact Human Resources at   [email protected] .   Application Deadline:   Candidate review will begin the week of September 14, 2026 and continue until the position is filled. This   posting   may be closed at any time at the discretion of the University. About Grand Rapids and the Medical Mile Grand Rapids is rapidly establishing itself as a national center for healthcare innovation, life sciences, and advanced technologies. Anchored by the internationally recognized Medical Mile, the region hosts a unique concentration of research institutes, healthcare systems, entrepreneurs, and industry partners committed to accelerating scientific discovery and improving human health. This dynamic ecosystem creates exceptional opportuniti