What is FARI

FARI is a non-profit joint-university institute on AI, data and robotics focused on the Common Good. Initiated by two Brussels universities (VUB & ULB) – we are uniting the interdisciplinary expertise across 10 research groups on AI, data, robotics, social sciences, ethics, and law.

We use Brussels as a laboratory to do research together and build bridges with public administrations, industry, and citizens, promoting urban and sustainable AI, with a focus on urban and public priority domains such as health, mobility, climate and energy, sustainable robotics and participatory & inclusive society.

About the team

The FARI Central support team helps both ULB and VUB researchers in their research and innovation projects, as well as companies and public administrations in the digital transition of society. How will and can AI, Data and Robotics make a difference in making our society more sustainable?

To help the FARI research community as well as the stakeholders we work with (citizens, public administrations, companies), we are expanding this team that is based BeCentral to build a stronger institute and develop new services to support open innovation activities and the FARI objectives.

About the FARI Smart Region Hub

At FARI, we help build the next generation of responsible innovators in Brussels, Belgium, and internationally. The FARI Smart Region Hub offers our partners advice and support in the development of next generation AI Strategies and Pilot projects that focus on Smart Region Smart City topics, AI Governance and AI Regulation as well as future Public Private Partnership programs where public sector, companies, citizens and academic researchers meet and build Society 5.0 in full transparency and trust.

The Smart Region Hub crafts and executes on new AI Innovation Policies within organisations (public as well as private), as well as on a more macro level in the context of local, regional or national (AI) Innovation Policy. We co-design new Innovation Instruments that allow Trustworthy AI, Data and Robotics technology to create impact in society… for all. Being part of the team allows for tangible results and follow-ups, e.g. the development of pilot projects, digital visualization and AR/VR/XR technologies and advances test infrastructures. Collaboration with the FARI AI Academy and the FARI Test & Experience Center team enriches the Smart Region Hub vision and makes a 360° service offering to decision makers in Brussels, and across.

About the position of the FARI Senior Innovation Policy Expert – Smart Region – (M/F/X)

Some key roles you will fulfill when you take up your role as Senior Innovation Policy Expert include:

– Guiding decision makers: You assist leaders from both the public and private sectors in determining where and how to invest in AI, Data, and Robotics for optimal societal and economic benefits. You help uncover the true value that data and AI bring to technology, ensuring it serves the public interest effectively.
– Shaping Strategies: You develop comprehensive digital innovation strategies with a focus on AI, Data, and Robotics. This involves identifying and prioritizing use cases, evaluating business challenges, and creating roadmaps and strategic plans.
– Delivering Insights: You design user-friendly solutions that provide valuable insights from both structured and unstructured data. This empowers governments, researchers, and businesses to make well-informed decisions regarding AI, Data, and Robotics solutions.
– Mastering Data Stewardship: You champion the importance of data governance by improving data quality and management, treating data as a strategic asset, and highlighting its governance value.
– Advancing Sustainable AI: You advocate for innovative AI solutions, including Generative AI, that promote long-term societal and ecological benefits. Your focus on ethical governance and transparency builds trust among stakeholders.
– Building Future Ecosystems: You help create cutting-edge AI and Data ecosystems, supporting governments in data exchange with stakeholders through advanced data platforms.

Key skills for this position

– Master or PhD in or Social Sciences or Computer Sciences or Engineering
– Experience with the development of international or regional frameworks, guidelines, policy papers, strategies or best practice documents is required.
– Experience in policy development in the field of digital technology, research and innovation as such, is highly desirable.
– Knowledge of the Brussels, Belgian and European Public Administration ecosystem
– Strong understanding of Data Science and AI concepts and technologies, including machine learning, deep learning, NLP, and computer vision.
– Excellent communication skills in English and French is a minimum – fluency in Dutch is considered a big bonus
– Outstanding presentation skills
– Ability to work independently and collaboratively
– A startup mindset

Deadline of Application: Sept. 27, 2024

Start Date: As soon as possible

To apply, send your short letter of motivation and CV to karen.boers@fari.brussels  and hans.de.canck@vub.be

Type of contract : 1 year contract with Université Libre de Bruxelles or with Vrije Universiteit Brussel,, which turns to a permanent contract after 1 year upon positive evaluation.

Hours per week : Full time, 38h a week

Work location : FARI (BeCentral, Cantersteen 16, 1000 Brussels)