Director, Petraeus AI Lab

Full-time

Staff positions

June 17, 2026


The American University Of Iraq, Sulaimani

AUIS is an independent, nonprofit, coeducational, English-speaking university founded in 2007 for the public benefit and located in Sulaimani, the cultural capital of the Kurdistan region in Iraq and a UNESCO-designated City of Literature. The region has excellent security, welcoming and hospitable residents, and eager and capable students.

Why Join AUIS:

AUIS offers a unique academic environment characterized by academic freedom, flexible working arrangements, and highly motivated students. Faculty benefit from opportunities for international collaboration, involvement in the development of the University's AI Research Center, and engagement with a diverse and inclusive community. Combined with a competitive salary and benefits package, AUIS provides an excellent opportunity for professionals seeking a rewarding and impactful academic career.

The Petraeus AI Lab:

The American University of Iraq, Sulaimani (AUIS) has officially launched the Petraeus AI Lab, named in honor of General David H. Petraeus, to advance artificial intelligence (AI) research and innovation in the region.
The Petraeus AI Lab aims to equip AUIS students with hands-on experience in AI technologies, enabling them to design and implement practical solutions that address pressing challenges in education, healthcare, energy, and other key sectors. A central focus of the lab is the development of localized AI models, beginning with the Kurdish Sorani dialect, to ensure that emerging technologies serve the needs of the local community and language users.

Position Description:

The Director of the Petraeus AI Lab will lead AUIS's flagship artificial intelligence initiative. The Director will provide strategic, technical, and operational leadership to advance AI education, research, workforce development, and innovation.
The Director will serve as the public face of the Lab, building partnerships with industry, government, academia, and donors. A key priority will be leading the development of Kurdish-language AI capabilities, including a Kurdish Large Language Model (LLM).
 

General Requirements:

  • Develop and execute the vision and strategy of the Petraeus AI Lab. 
  • Lead the development of Kurdish-language AI tools and a Kurdish LLM. 
  • Design and oversee AI research, training, and workforce development and/or academic programs.  
  • Support the integration of AI across AUIS academic and administrative functions. 
  • Build partnerships with technology companies, universities, government agencies, and international organizations. 
  • Represent the Lab in public forums, media engagements, conferences, and stakeholder meetings.Secure external funding  through grants, sponsorships, partnerships, and philanthropy.
  • Support grant-writing and resource mobilization efforts to support the Lab's growth and sustainability.
  •  Recruit, supervise, and mentor Lab staff and researchers.
     

Qualifications: 

The ideal candidate exhibits the following characteristics:

  • Advanced degree in AI, Computer Science, Data Science, Engineering, or a related field.
  • Demonstrated expertise in developing, deploying, and applying AI technologies in education, business, government, or industry.
  • ⁠Strong knowledge of machine learning, generative AI, and AI applications.
  • Experience leading projects, teams, or innovation initiatives.
  • Excellent communication, networking, and public engagement skills.
  • Experience writing grants or securing partnerships and external funding is strongly preferred.
  • Proficiency in English is required.
     

Desired Attributes: 

The ideal candidate combines technical expertise with entrepreneurial leadership. They are a builder, connector, and ambassador who can grow the Petraeus AI Lab into a leading regional center for artificial intelligence while advancing AUIS's mission of education, innovation, and public service.

Application Process:

Applicants should submit the following documents via email, with “Director, Petraeus AI Lab” in the subject line, to [email protected]:

  • Cover letter addressing their qualifications and interest in the position. 
  • Curriculum vitae. 
  • Copies of academic degrees and transcripts. 
  • Statement of vision for advancing AI education, research, innovation, and external engagement.

Shortlisted applicants will be asked to provide contact information for three academic and professional references. 

No telephone calls, please. While we thank all applicants for their interest, only those under consideration will be contacted for a follow-up interview. AUIS is an Affirmative Action / Equal Employment Opportunity employer that believes cultural diversity is essential to education.


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