AI/Data Science Pillar Lead Search
The Northwestern Network for Collaborative Intelligence (NNCI) invites nominations and applications for leadership roles in its three strategic pillars: Research, Education, and Infrastructure.
The pillar leads will play a pivotal role in shaping and implementing Northwestern’s strategy for advancing data science and artificial intelligence (AI) research, education, and collaboration. We seek individuals who bring varied perspectives and a strong commitment to interdisciplinary engagement across schools, departments, and research units.
Selected pillar leads will receive a yearly stipend and will collaborate closely with the NNCI co-directors to shape and guide NNCI’s inaugural initiatives.
About the Pillars
Each NNCI pillar supports a core dimension of Northwestern’s data science and AI ecosystem, advancing the University’s mission to lead in discovery, education, and innovation across disciplines.
Research
Catalyzing visionary, multidisciplinary projects that define the next frontiers of data science and AI. The research pillar lead will help identify and shape groundbreaking initiatives that position Northwestern as a global leader in DS/AI scholarship. Through engagement with researchers and scholars across schools and domains, they will cultivate a vibrant research community while collaborating with NNCI co-directors to secure funding and establish strategic partnerships with industry, government, and peer institutions.
Education
Designing and advancing transformative learning opportunities that prepare students and professionals to thrive in a data-driven world. The education pillar lead will play a key role in developing and expanding multidisciplinary DS/AI educational programs — including new certificates, executive education initiatives, and academic minors and majors — in collaboration with school and institutional leaders. Working with NNCI co-directors, they will also help attract resources and partnerships to sustain and grow these visionary educational efforts.
Infrastructure
Building and maintaining the technological foundation that empowers Northwestern’s data science and AI enterprise. The infrastructure pillar lead will ensure that faculty, staff, and students across disciplines have access to the cutting-edge hardware, software, data resources, and expert support needed to pursue high-impact research and education. Their work will strengthen Northwestern’s shared infrastructure and promote broad access to tools that enable discovery, innovation, and collaboration at scale.
Eligibility
NNCI pillar leads will be drawn primarily from Northwestern’s tenured faculty, though instructional faculty and staff leaders with relevant expertise are also encouraged to apply. Candidates should have at least five years of experience relevant to the pillar area and a demonstrated record of collegiality and collaboration.
Procedure for Candidacy
Applications, nominations, and inquiries are invited and can be submitted to NNCI@northwestern.edu. Nominations must be submitted by Nov. 17, 2025.
Applications should include a CV and letter of interest. Priority consideration will be given to applications received by Dec. 5, 2025.