Executive Director - Qatar Computing Research Institute

Role overview

Hamad Bin Khalifa University is looking for an Executive Director to provide senior-level leadership for the Qatar Computing Research Institute (QCRI). The position calls for a leader with a strong, continuous, and active research background in computing, together with deep familiarity with fast-moving developments in artificial intelligence. The successful candidate will help shape QCRI’s research agenda, strengthen its innovation footprint, and expand its influence across Qatar and internationally.

This leadership role is responsible for guiding the institute’s strategic direction, encouraging a collaborative research culture, attracting a broad mix of funding, and building strong relationships with universities, research organizations, industry partners, and global technology firms. The role also includes oversight of budgeting, hiring, and mentoring activities.

Key responsibilities

The Executive Director is expected to define a compelling research vision that responds to global trends and aligns with opportunities in Qatar and the wider region.

• Create and execute a research roadmap that supports HBKU, Qatar Foundation, national priorities, and international scientific opportunities.
• Provide scientific and administrative leadership that advances QCRI’s mission and research quality.
• Guide interdisciplinary, mission-focused research efforts that tackle both national and worldwide challenges.
• Develop strategic collaborations with government, industry, academia, and leading global technology organizations.
• Enhance QCRI’s global standing through research leadership, partnerships, and major scientific initiatives.
• Increase the institute’s impact through publications, technologies, platforms, products, and contributions to policy and practical application.
• Attract external funding and strategic investment to support long-term research growth and sustainability.
• Encourage collaboration across HBKU, Qatar Foundation, and external stakeholders to maximize innovation outcomes.
• Recruit, nurture, and retain top research talent while promoting a high-performance environment.
• Support and mentor early-career researchers and emerging scientific leaders, with a strong focus on developing local talent.

Requirements

• A Ph.D. in Computer Science or a closely allied discipline, supported by an internationally respected record of research achievement and impact.
• Many years of progressive experience in research and technology development, including leadership of large programs and teams.
• Hands-on experience directing research, innovation, and technology development initiatives.
• Proven ability to lead, coach, and inspire multidisciplinary teams with strong performance expectations.
• Solid understanding of national and international policies, frameworks, and ethical issues affecting computing, AI, and digital technologies.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills, along with effective stakeholder engagement; Arabic language skills would be beneficial.

Additional information

This role is designed for a senior research leader who can combine scientific credibility with strategic vision, partnership building, and organizational leadership. The position places significant emphasis on research excellence, innovation, funding growth, and talent development.

No salary, stipend, or vacancy count was specified in the source information.

No start date, application deadline, or internship duration was provided.