AI Research Scientist Digital Libraries at Virginia Tech in Blacksburg, VA.
Type: Full-Time
Posted: 02/26/2024
Category: Computer Science
Job Description:
Reporting to the Associate Dean and Executive Director for IT at Virginia Tech University Libraries, the AI Research Scientist will contribute to the advancement of library services through artificial intelligence. The incumbent will work primarily with the Digital Libraries and Preservation unit, providing AI solutions to enhance the arrangement, description, discovery, and preservation of digital content managed by the University Libraries. A significant aspect of the role will also involve contributing to library-wide programs and initiatives, accelerating the library’s adaptation to the evolving landscape of higher education and research influenced by AI.
This is an exciting opportunity to contribute significantly to the evolution of digital library services at Virginia Tech, using AI to enrich the management and access of academic information. The successful candidate must possess a solid academic foundation in digital library theory, natural language processing, human-computer interaction, and information retrieval. They will apply methodologies from machine learning, artificial intelligence, and deep learning to develop computational models, tools, and services, thereby enhancing the discovery and accessibility of knowledge in digital collections beyond conventional metadata and full-text search. In the course of their research, the AI Research Scientist may form close partnerships with VT academic departments and outside collaborators.
This is a 12-month, Continued Appointment track, faculty position at Virginia Tech University Libraries. It includes expectations of developing and pursuing an active research agenda and professional involvement, contributing to the advancement of the field and the university’s academic and research mission.
Responsibilities:
- Research and Innovation: Research to advance the application of AI in library services, focusing on improving the discovery and accessibility of knowledge in digital collections.
- Publish research findings in peer-reviewed journals and present at relevant conferences. Contribute to the broader academic and professional discourse on AI in digital libraries.
- Participate in and contribute to academic conferences, workshops, and seminars related to AI in libraries.
AI Solution Development and Implementation: - Design and implement AI solutions to enhance the arrangement, description, discovery, and preservation of digital content managed by the University Libraries.
- Develop computational models, tools, and services using machine learning, artificial intelligence, and deep learning techniques.
- Library- and University-wide AI Integration:
- Contribute to library-wide programs and initiatives, facilitating the library’s adaptation to the evolving landscape of higher education and research influenced by AI.
- Form partnerships with various academic departments at Virginia Tech and external collaborators to enhance research and application of AI in library services.
- Engage in interdisciplinary collaborations that leverage the strengths of AI to address complex challenges in digital scholarship.
- Ethical and Accessible Technology Advocacy:
- Prioritize ethical AI development and implementation, focusing on data privacy, user trust, and equitable access.
- Champion the development of AI solutions that are accessible and user-friendly for a diverse range of library users.
- Grant Acquisition and Proposal Writing:
- Identify and secure grant opportunities to fund AI research and initiatives within the library. This includes researching potential funding sources, writing compelling grant proposals, and collaborating with various stakeholders to present innovative and impactful project ideas.
Required Qualifications:
- Ph.D. in Computer Science, Information Science, or a related field, with a focus on artificial intelligence, natural language processing, digital libraries, and information retrieval.
- Demonstrated experience in conducting research in AI, natural language processing, digital libraries, and information retrieval.
- Experience presenting publications at peer-reviewed digital libraries or information retrieval conferences (e.g., JCDL, SIGIR, TPDL).
- Strong programming skills with Python and data science tools (e.g., Jupyter Notebooks, GitHub, Docker).
- Experience with AI and machine learning frameworks (e.g., TensorFlow, PyTorch).
- Understanding of digital library theory and practices, including digital content management, bibliographic control, and user-centered service design.
- A demonstrated commitment to professional development and staying abreast of emerging trends in AI, digital technologies, and librarianship.
- A strong commitment to actively participate in and contribute to service activities within the library, university, and broader professional communities.
Preferred Qualifications:
- Expertise in various facets of AI and NLP, such as classification, summarization, information extraction, topic modeling, semi-supervised learning, transfer learning, and learning with limited data.
- Demonstrated skills in AI and NLP engineering, with a proven track record of successfully deploying large-scale AI/NLP systems, particularly in an academic or university library setting.
- Experience in writing grant proposals and managing funded projects. Ability to identify funding opportunities and articulate the value of proposed research.
- Teaching experience.
Appointment Type:
A/P Faculty, Assistant Professor, regular full-time appointment
Salary Information:
$85,000 minimum dependent on education and qualifications
Review Date:
03/11/24
Additional Information:
- This position is not available until June 2024.
- The application package needs to include a resume, and cover letter addressing the candidate’s experience with the responsibilities associated with the position, the required and preferred qualifications, and the names of three (3) references and their contact information.
- The successful candidate will be required to have a criminal conviction check.
The University Libraries at Virginia Tech is committed to building a culturally diverse community and strongly encourages applications from women and minorities. We are committed to mentoring and establishing safe spaces, both physical and virtual, where employees from current and historically minoritized groups can thrive.
The members of the University Libraries at Virginia Tech strive individually and collectively to create, sustain, and share inclusive ways of knowing in a conscientious community with each other and all the people we serve in every space we shape. In keeping with our Aspirational Identity and the Virginia Tech Principles of Community, the University Libraries commit to building and maintaining enduring climates of mutual care, respect, and responsibility.
If you are an individual with a disability and desire an accommodation, please contact Rebecca Osborne at rebeccaao@vt.edu during regular business hours at least 10 business days before the event.
Virginia Tech has a strong commitment to the principle of diversity, and in that spirit seeks a broad spectrum of candidates including women, minorities, veterans, and people with disabilities. Individuals with disabilities desiring accommodations in the application process should notify the hiring department by the application deadline.
Apply on the Institution’s Website.
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