Chair of Artificial Intelligence

The Department of Computer Science wishes to appoint a new leader at Professorial level (grade 10, full professor) in AI or a related research area.

Known for its interdisciplinary research in AI, Natural Language Processing, and interactive robotics, the Department of Computer Science is a key member of the prestigious Edinburgh Centre for Robotics and the Edinburgh ELLIS Unit. Our department consistently secures significant UK and international research funding. Joining us means becoming part of a vibrant team of researchers working at the intersection of AI, NLP, machine learning, and robotics, frequently tackling real-world challenges such as assistive technology, healthcare, and safe conversational interaction.

You will join the Department of Computer Science during an exciting period of growth. Our campus is home to the National Robotarium, a world-leading centre for Robotics and AI research and innovation. We have also expanded our doctoral training capabilities with the recent launch of the UKRI Centre for Doctoral Training (CDT) in Dependable and Deployable Artificial Intelligence for Robotics (a joint initiative with the University of Edinburgh). This complements our long-standing EPSRC CDT in Robotics and Autonomous Systems.

Building on our strong foundations, excellent REF 2021 results, and robust financial performance, Computer Science is strategically recruiting a full Professor to establish and lead a new research group. This pivotal role will focus on key research areas aligned with the School’s Strategic Themes and new Global Research Institutes (GRIs), directly addressing governmental and societal priorities.

We expect the successful candidate to take on an active role in the leadership of the Computer Science Department, to build long-term relationships with the Edinburgh Centre for Robotics and National Robotarium and/or other Global Research Institutes and Schools within the university.

Key Duties and Responsibilities 

We expect the successful candidate to:

• carry out and publish internationally excellent research in AI or related research areas;
• build a research group in their field by actively pursuing research funding through the submission of high-quality grant proposals;
• mentor more junior members of staff in their career development
• build relationships with Edinburgh Centre for Robotics and National Robotarium and/or other Global Research Institutes and Schools within the university
• further knowledge exchange activities;
• carry out such administrative and recruitment activities as may be required to achieve these aims;
• develop and deliver innovative teaching in computer science at undergraduate and postgraduate level, and work successfully in global teaching teams;
• be responsible to the Head of Department for performing the activities listed above in a way that will maintain and enhance the School’s reputation for excellence.

Education, Qualifications and Experience

To be considered for the role the candidate must have a PhD in computer science or an associated field, and a strong research track record at international level, demonstrated through publications, citations, external invitations and research funding. They must have experience or potential to be able to lead and mentor more junior staff. They must also have the relevant experience or potential to be able to successfully engage with and innovate in our undergraduate and postgraduate teaching programmes, including the supervision of PhD students. The Department has a strong collaborative ethos, and the successful candidate will have the aspiration to develop our world-class research activity and the drive and commitment to contribute to and develop our teaching programme.

Essential Criteria

E1. PhD in computer science or an associated field.

E2. Track-record of internationally-leading research with excellent publications in AI or a related research area.

E3. Potential, ambition and plans to obtain research funding.

E4. Skills to develop and teach a range of lecture courses in computer science, as well as supervise MSc dissertations.

E5. Good leadership, interpersonal and teamwork skills.

E6. Track record of successfully supervising PhD students.

E7. Track record of obtaining substantial research funding.

Desirable Criteria

D1. Experience of working with industrial partners.

D2. Potential to provide leadership in the development and implementation of research strategy within Computer Science and AI.

D3. Potential to provide leadership in the planning, organisation and development of learning and teaching activities in Computer Science and AI

D4. Track record of successful outreach activities

About our team

The School of Mathematical and Computer Sciences has an Athena SWAN Silver Award and is committed to an equality charter, which includes having a diverse and inclusive workforce, and to offering equality of opportunity to all. We encourage applications from under-represented groups, and we welcome requests for flexible working arrangements, and will endeavour to accommodate them whenever possible.

How to apply

Applications can be submitted up to midnight (UK time) on 23^rd of June 2025.

Interested applicants must submit via the Heriot-Watt on-line recruitment system: (1) a cover letter describing their interest and suitability for the post; (2) a full CV, including a list of publications; and  (3) a 2 page summary where they discuss their plans and ambitions for both research and teaching.

Informal enquiries may be made to: Prof. Jurriaan Hage, Head of Computer Science, j.hage@hw.ac.uk.

Use our total rewards calculator: www.hw.ac.uk/uk/about/work/total-rewards-calculator.htm to see the value of benefits provided by Heriot-Watt University.

About Heriot-Watt University

At Heriot-Watt we are passionate about our values and look to them to connect our people globally and to help us collaborate and celebrate our success through working together. Our research programmes can deliver real world impact which is achieved through the diversity of our international community and the recognition of creative talent that connects our global team.

Our flourishing community will give you the freedom to challenge and to bring your enterprising mind and to help our partners with solutions that can be applied now and in the future. Join us and Heriot Watt will provide you with a platform to thrive and work in a way that also helps you live your life in balance with well-being and inclusiveness at the heart of our global community.