Professor of AI in Learning

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About the Role
The Open University is seeking to recruit a Professor in Artificial Intelligence (AI) in Learning to join the Institute of Educational Technology (IET).

This is an exciting opportunity for an established academic to lead the development and growth of AI in the world-leading IET at the OU. IET is a global leader in the field of pedagogy, known for advancing open and distance learning globally. Since IET was established in 1970 we have been central to The Open University’s mission to be the world leader in researching, innovating and delivering supported, open and distance learning. Since then, we have contributed to research across many significant developments within education, driving understanding of how innovative technology can support learning, teaching and assessment.

As a senior colleague, you will play a significant role in enhancing and developing the strong research culture within IET, the Faculty of Wellbeing, Education and Language Studies (WELS), and OU more broadly. You will continue to advance your own research while building and further strengthening the thriving research programme of AI, learning analytics and design within IET. You will lead this research programme for which IET has a thriving community of colleagues who engage in AI, learning analytics and design research and contribute to understanding how students and educators learn, looking to REF2029 and the research environment beyond.  We are looking for someone who has an established track record in publications and research and knowledge exchange income, including grant capture, who can further build the research programme. Someone who will lead, develop, and work with established Professors and colleagues within IET and across the OU.

Through your own achievements and your supportive leadership, you will contribute to the IET’s increased success in obtaining external funding, produce high quality research outputs, ensure the impact of IET’s research, and undertake external engagement activities. You will also contribute to the recruitment and support of research students and will take a key role in mentoring new and career-early staff and helping more established colleagues develop their careers. In addition, you will also support the Associate Director of Research and Knowledge Exchange, Associate Director of Quality Enhancement and Innovation, and Associate Director, Curriculum in developing new AI applications, teaching materials, evaluations and impact studies approved by the University.

You will have an active and compelling research agenda that engages with contemporary developments in AI in education and/or learning. You will have an established international research reputation and an impressive record of publications with a commitment to the dissemination of research to stakeholders and beneficiaries beyond academia. You will have a significant record of success in securing external funding income. Your excellent leadership record will include demonstrable achievements in assisting the development of more junior colleagues. You will be able to lead and contribute to the development of quality enhancement and curriculum projects.