AI Research Scientist, Digital Libraries

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 arrangement, description, discovery, 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 pursing 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:
Conduct 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.