12791 - Program Director – Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning

Overview

Program Director – Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning
Deadline: November 30th, 2025

CMCC is launching a groundbreaking Program on Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning (AI/ML) focused on predicting the impacts of climate change across agriculture, urban systems, coastal areas, and societal sectors. The initiative is anchored by the Super Computing Center, a leading computational facility in Italy and among the best in Europe for climate change research. A core team will be established to lead this program, consisting of a team leader, senior and junior scientists, and AI/ML application developers. This role offers collaboration opportunities across all CMCC Institutes.

ROLE

The Program Director will head the AI/ML Program, overseeing and coordinating the activities of the AI/ML research group. The successful candidate will build, guide, and manage a team of approximately six professionals, including scientists, junior scientists, and AI/ML application developers.

Responsibilities

• Develop and expand the Program’s portfolio of activities, ensuring sustainable growth through effective budget management and fundraising initiatives
• Establish and strengthen international collaborations with peer institutions and research organizations
• Lead and manage a dynamic AI/ML research group, providing clear strategic direction, mentoring, and guidance
• Work in close collaboration with the Supercomputing Center team to advance computational capabilities and joint projects
• Collaborate across all three CMCC Institutes to integrate and scale AI/ML applications
• Evaluate research progress, identify opportunities for innovation, and foster strategic partnerships
• Manage and monitor the Program’s budget, ensuring efficient use of resources
• Anticipate and proactively address potential challenges or risks
• Promote a positive, inclusive, and collaborative working environment that supports professional growth and teamwork

Qualifications

• PhD in a relevant discipline (e.g., Computer Science, Machine Learning, Applied Mathematics, Engineering, Climate or Environmental Science, Environmental Economics or other related fields)
• Proven track record of leading research projects and managing multidisciplinary teams
• Strong expertise in Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning methods, tools, and frameworks
• Hands-on experience with High-Performance Computing (HPC) environments and familiarity with supercomputing infrastructure
• Demonstrated ability to develop and manage complex research programs, including budgeting and fundraising
• Experience in building international collaborations and engaging with research institutions, funding agencies, and strategic partners
• Solid scientific background, evidenced by a strong publication record in high-impact, peer-reviewed journals and conferences
• Excellent leadership, organizational, and communication skills, with the ability to motivate and mentor team members
• Strategic mindset and capacity to identify innovation opportunities and translate them into actionable research initiatives
• Commitment to fostering a collaborative, inclusive, and positive working environment

Duration, Compensation & Benefits

• The position offers the opportunity for a tenure track or permanent position, contingent upon qualifications and demonstrated contributions to the success of the research group
• Contract and gross annual salary will be based on qualifications and working experience and competitive with major European research centers
• The position is based at our headquarters in Lecce, Italy
• Comprehensive welfare package
• Flexible working time as per internal policies
• Support during the immigration process, if needed

Why Join Us

• Be part of a groundbreaking project dedicated to shaping the future of society
• Full Access to state-of-the-art supercomputing resources
• Opportunities for professional growth and development
• Collaborative and innovative work environment
• Competitive salary and benefits package

How to Apply

Interested candidates should submit their CV, a cover letter, and contact information for three references. Please specify the position you are applying for in the application form.

Join us in shaping the future of AI and ML with the power of supercomputing!

PROTECTED CATEGORY: Belonging to legally protected categories (ex L. 68/99) will constitute a preferential condition. Some fiscal benefits could be applied for repatriated workers or foreign researchers/professors, having the requirements defined by Dlgs 147/2015 (for repatriates) or Dl 78/2010 (for foreigners).

CMCC is an equal-opportunity employer. We evaluate qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, veteran status, age, familial status, and other legally protected characteristics. Please omit from your CV any data you or we might consider discriminatory.

This job announcement is an invitation to express interest in the above-mentioned CMCC Position.

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