Artificial Intelligence (AI) Librarian
The University of Chicago

Description

The University of Chicago seeks a new innovative team member to join the library as its first AI Librarian. This position will report to the Director of Digital Scholarship and play a vital role in advancing the University's engagement with artificial intelligence technologies in research and scholarship, as outlined in the Library's strategy. The AI Librarian will join a team of library experts committed to supporting open scholarship and will provide leadership in developing AI-focused services and resources. The successful candidate will collaborate with faculty, researchers, and students to explore the potential of AI in research, enhance data-driven scholarship, and contribute to the University's digital transformation initiatives.

The AI Librarian will lead the development of AI-based research support services at the library, actively engaging with campus partners, including the Research Computing Center, IT Services, Chicago Center for Teaching and Learning, and academic departments. Efforts for appropriate use of AI within the Library, raising awareness and supporting Library staff in growing their knowledge, will be core activities for the AI Librarian. They will also participate in campus-wide initiatives focused on AI and data science, contributing to the development of strategies and resources that promote ethical and responsible AI use, as well as promoting digital literacy beyond campus to our neighbors in the South Side of Chicago.

Responsibilities

AI Research Support:

• Provide consultations, training, and outreach to researchers on the application of AI in various research contexts, including data analysis, machine learning, and natural language processing.
• Assist in the development and implementation of AI-related policies, procedures, and workflows at the library and university levels.
• Collaborate with faculty and researchers to assess and integrate AI tools and methodologies into their research projects, including the use of AI for data management, text and data mining, and predictive analytics.
• Develop an instruction program allowing students to effectively utilize AI in their studies, research, and future career. Collaborate with librarians and university staff to deliver AI and information literacy instruction and outreach.
• Develop and maintain AI resources, such as guides, tutorials, and workshops, to support the research community's use of AI technologies.

AI Ethics and Policy:

• Stay informed about the evolving landscape of AI ethics, policies, and regulations, including issues related to data privacy, bias, and transparency.
• Collaborate with university stakeholders to ensure the ethical and responsible use of AI in research, including compliance with relevant laws and guidelines.
• Provide guidance on best practices for AI implementation, including algorithmic transparency and accountability.

AI as a tool for libraries:

• Assess AI tools that could benefit the Library's own operation and services and undertake research into use of AI for library and information services.
• Develop an AI training programs for Library staff to enable the Library to benefit from AI technologies to better support our users.

Outreach and Engagement:

• Engage with the research community through outreach efforts, workshops, and events to promote awareness and understanding of AI technologies and their implications for research.
• Actively participate in discussions on AI and digital scholarship within the university and broader academic community to foster broad interdisciplinary debate on Artificial Intelligence across and beyond UChicago.
• Cultivate strong relationships with faculty, researchers, and students to understand their evolving needs related to AI and data science.
• Bring elements of the instruction program to underserved communities on the South Side of Chicago, to increase digital inclusion, in partnership with the Library's Director of Community Engagement and partners including the Data Science Institute, the Polsky Exchange, Chicago Public Libraries and Chicago Public Schools.

Qualifications

Required:

• Master's degree in computer science, data science, information systems, AI/ML or a related field.
• Demonstrated knowledge of AI technologies, machine learning, and data science, including practical experience with AI tools and platforms.
• Four years of experience with programming languages commonly used in AI, such as Python, R, or TensorFlow.
• Familiarity with the ethical, legal, and social implications of AI, particularly in research contexts.
• Excellent communication skills with the ability to collaborate effectively with diverse stakeholders and communicate complex technology concepts to non-expert audiences.
• Strong commitment to staying current with emerging trends and developments in AI, data science, federal policies, and digital scholarship.

Preferred:

• Experience providing AI or data science services in a research setting is preferred.

Application Instructions

To Apply: Submit cover letter, curriculum vitae, and reference contact information online through the University of Chicago's Academic Recruiting website:https://apply.interfolio.com/160598. Review of applications will begin after January 11, 2025. Screening of applications will continue until the position is filled or the search is closed.

Salary and Benefits: Appointment salary based on qualifications and experience. Benefits include retirement plan, insurance, and paid time off.

Questions: Contact the University Library Human Resources department at libraryhr@uchicago.edu.

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