Head of Research and Development (R&D) Unit

Head of Research and Development (R&D) Unit

The Italian Institute of Artificial Intelligence for Industry (AI4I) is seeking visionary, ambitious, and talented leaders to serve as the Founding Heads of its first set of R&D Units.

Application Deadline: Sunday, April 13, 11:59 PM CEST.

About AI4I and its R&D Units

AI4I is the newly established Italian institute dedicated to implementing the national strategy in Artificial Intelligence. It was founded by the Italian Government to drive transformative, application-oriented research in Artificial Intelligence, fostering innovation, industrial transformation, and sustainable growth.

The Institute is inviting applications for the position of Head of Research and Development (R&D) Unit.

Description of the Role

As the Head of an R&D Unit, adequately supported by the competent transversal structures/offices, you will establish and lead one of the Institute’s core research entities, positioning AI4I as a world-class AI research and development hub.

Responsibilities

• Strategic Leadership: Design cutting-edge AI R&D programs and solutions, meeting milestones, and achieving defined success metrics.
• Team Building: Lead a team of AI scientists, researchers, and engineers to execute advanced research and develop practical software or platforms.
• Revenue Generation: Secure external funding from private and public sources to support your unit’s growth.
• Interface Management: Translate partner/client requirements into actionable R&D initiatives.
• Project Management: Oversee multiple projects, establish schedules, and resolve bottlenecks to ensure seamless execution.
• AI Assets Development: Guide the creation of reusable frameworks, libraries, and APIs aligned with industry needs.
• Innovation and Collaboration: Monitor AI advancements, identify opportunities for impactful innovation, and collaborate with other R&D Units and partners.
• Outreach: Partner with marketing and business development teams to expand AI4I’s influence.

Qualifications

Candidates must possess a strong expertise in foundational AI methodologies and computational methods, applicable across various domains. Alternatively, they may have deep vertical expertise in applying AI methodologies within specific application domains (e.g., manufacturing, automotive, aerospace).

Minimum Qualifications

A master’s degree in engineering, physics, mathematics, computer science, or a related field is required, together with relevant expertise in areas related to Artificial Intelligence, such as:

• Foundational Models, Algorithmic Research
• Computer Vision
• Parallel & Distributed Computing
• Control and Optimization
• Human-Machine Interaction
• Software Development
• AI Agents

Key Success Metrics

Your performance will be evaluated against annual and multi-year KPIs, including:

• Strategic Impact: Develop a robust vision aligned with AI4I’s mission and drive high-impact projects.
• Project Execution: Deliver projects on time, within budget, and with measurable industrial outcomes.
• Innovation: Drive IP creation and adopt cutting-edge AI technologies.
• Revenue Growth: Secure external funding and build strong partnerships.
• Stakeholder Engagement: Deliver solutions that align with industry needs and add tangible value.

What we Offer

• Initial 3/5-year appointment, renewable or convertible to a permanent contract upon evaluation.
• Competitive international salary, with relocation packages for candidates moving from abroad or other Italian regions.
• Starting budget for team salaries and direct operational expenses.
• Access to state-of-the-art HPC resources featuring the latest AI accelerators.

Application Process

To apply, submit a single pdf file containing the following documents via the online application portal by April 13, 11:59 PM CEST:

• Strategic Plan(max. 5,000 words), including:
  • Proposed focus, structure, and strategy for your R&D Unit.
  • Outline of your revenue-generation plan in the first 3/5 years.
  • Main KPIs and yearly targets.
• Names and Contact Information of three referees, familiar with the applicant’s research accomplishments.

AI4I is committed to fostering a diverse, inclusive, and equitable workplace. Applications from underrepresented communities are strongly encouraged.

We eagerly anticipate applications from outstanding candidates ready to lead AI4I to new heights of innovation and impact.