CDS Chair in AI

Endowed Chair in Artificial Intelligence (2026-2027)

Boston University (BU) seeks to hire an endowed chair in its Faculty of Computing & Data Sciences (CDS) with specific focus on Artificial Intelligence (AI). We are seeking candidates of exceptional scholarship with a proven record of high-impact research at the nexus of the foundational, methodological, and use-inspired dimensions of AI. The successful candidate will be appointed with tenure in CDS with opportunities for joint appointments in other BU academic units as appropriate. This position is envisioned as an anchor to provide significant guidance and leadership in recruiting a cluster of faculty members working on AI in CDS as well as in other cognate departments at BU over the next few years.

Senior scholars with an established research record anchored in the foundational, methodological, or use-inspired dimensions of data science, machine learning, and AI are encouraged to apply. Of particular interest are scholars pursuing research in supervised, unsupervised, and reinforcement machine learning methods and platforms of broad applicability, such as deep neural networks, federated learning, transfer learning, natural language processing, and large language models, as well as scholars exploring the connections between AI and other disciplines or pursuing research that address unique challenges in domains beyond computing, such as scientific machine learning, cognitive neuroscience, explainable AI, sociotechnical systems, and human computer interaction.

Research on the foundations, methodologies, and inspired use of AI is pervasive at BU. Given BU’s strategic investment in CDS as a catalyst for “research that matters” to society, the successful candidate will have excellent opportunities for real-world impact by collaborating with stakeholders in a rich array of academic and research units at BU, not only in the cognate disciplines of Computer Science, Electrical & Computer Engineering, Mathematics & Statistics, and Information Systems, but also in arts & sciences, engineering, and professional disciplines, including health, business, education, communication, and Law.  The successful candidate will also contribute to development of undergraduate and graduate curricula, degree programs, and specializations.

Interested candidates are welcome to reach out with any questions about this opportunity to the Associate Provost for Computing & Data Sciences, Azer Bestavros (cds-ap@bu.edu).

Note: Expressions of interest and/or applications for the position will be kept strictly confidential, and no letters of reference will be required until a decision to interview is reached.

Since its founding in 1839, Boston University has embraced a mission of openness and access, becoming one of the first universities in the nation to welcome all students of ability regardless of race, gender, or creed. That tradition shapes our enduring commitment to academic freedom, free inquiry, and the robust exchange of ideas. Please visit https://www.bu.edu/values/ to learn more about our shared values.

We seek scholars who will contribute to our community of teachers and researchers through excellence in innovative scholarship, engaged teaching, and participation in the intellectual life of the University. Boston University provides an environment where faculty and students work together across disciplines, perspectives, and experiences to advance knowledge and address society’s most pressing challenges.

The salary of the finalist selected for this role will be set based on a variety of factors, including but not limited to departmental budgets, qualifications, experience, education, licenses, specialty, training and internal pay comparison. The expected salary range for this position is $220,000 to $300,000. This noted hiring range represents the University's good faith and reasonable estimate of the range of possible compensation at the time of posting. 

Boston University is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, gender, age, national origin, ethnicity, disability, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law or identified in the University’s Notice of Non-Discrimination. Retaliation is also prohibited. We are a VEVRAA Federal Contractor.  Under Massachusetts law, we may not require or administer a lie detector test as a condition of employment or continued employment.

Boston University, consistent with the AAU’s Principles on Preventing Sexual Harassment, conducts background checks for final candidates for certain faculty and staff positions. As part of this process, we ask current and past employers of the last seven years whether there has been a substantiated finding of sexual misconduct under their policies. To move forward, final candidates must complete and sign an “Authorization to Release Information” form after receiving an offer to enable this background check.