Bob Dykes Chair of Advanced AI

Te Herenga Waka—Victoria University of Wellington, one of Aotearoa New Zealand’s most prestigious and research-intensive universities, invites applications and nominations for the Bob Dykes Chair in Advanced Artificial Intelligence. This is an exciting opportunity for a visionary leader and an Advanced AI expert to lead at the forefront of AI innovation, research, and policy at a time of national momentum and global transformation.

Generously supported by alumnus, finance and technology expert Bob Dykes, this first-of-its-kind endowed Chair represents a bold investment in the future of Generative and Advanced AI. Reporting to the Tumuaki - Head of School, the successful candidate will join Te Kura Mātai Pūkaha, Pūrorohiko - the School of Engineering and Computer Science, home to New Zealand’s first undergraduate major and master’s degree in AI, and will play a central role in shaping the University’s growing AI ecosystem.

This appointment comes at a pivotal moment, coinciding with the launch of New Zealand’s first national AI Strategy  and a surge in government investment in science, innovation, and technology of up to $1.2B in annual funding . Within three years, the Chair is expected to lead cutting-edge research in Advanced, particularly Generative AI, with real-world impact. The Chair will mentor the next generation of AI researchers and innovators, foster a vibrant ecosystem of students, staff, startups, and industry partners to drive innovation and commercial impact. The Chair will also help shape New Zealand’s national dialogue and policy on AI, ensuring that the country’s approach to AI development is ethical, inclusive, and globally informed. Working closely with leaders in the School of Engineering and Computer Science and Te Whiri Kawe - the Centre for Data Science and Artificial Intelligence, the Chair will facilitate interdisciplinary research for social and economic impact, strengthen institutional connectivity across the  AI initiatives, and position both the University and New Zealand as global leaders in the responsible development of AI technologies.

This is more than an academic role - it’s a strategic leadership opportunity to advance New Zealand’s capacity in AI. The ideal candidate will bring an outstanding scholarly record in Generative and other forms of Advanced AI, experience in both academia and industry, a passion for inspiring students, a talent for interdisciplinary engagement, and a bold, collaborative vision for AI’s role in shaping a better future.

Victoria University of Wellington has retained Isaacson, Miller, a national executive search firm, to assist in this search. Screening of complete applications will begin immediately and continue until the position is filled. Please submit all inquiries, nominations, referrals, and applications below. 

Julie Filizetti is leading this search with Phuong Ta and Gabi Harrington.