Director of Helsinki Institute for Information Technology HIIT
Aalto University and the University of Helsinki are looking for a proven leader to be the next
Director of Helsinki Institute for Information Technology HIIT
Becoming the Director of the Helsinki Institute for Information Technology HIIT offers a unique and prestigious career opportunity to lead cutting-edge ICT research within a strategic partnership of two world-class research universities, Aalto University, and the University of Helsinki. This role provides an unparalleled vantage point for advancing information and communications technology research, along with the chance to foster impactful collaborations with industry leaders and other key research stakeholders.
The position is shared between the Aalto University and the University of Helsinki is for a fixed term of five years, starting August 1st, 2025. The appointment is renewable.
HIIT is a joint research institute of Aalto University and the University of Helsinki. The institute conducts world-class research on information technology ranging from fundamental methods and technologies to novel applications and their impact on people and society. HIIT is a multinational and multidisciplinary community of approximately 300 researchers and has an annual budget of around EUR 19 million of which over 85% competitive funding. HIIT has established partnerships with several leading international and Finnish companies as well as with universities and research institutes worldwide.
Responsibilities
The director works in close co-operation with HIIT’s Board of Directors, the strategic decision-making body of the institute. The responsibilities include the following:
• Developing and implementing the institute’s strategy
• Taking responsibility for HIIT’s budget and finances as well as preparing the agenda for HIIT Board
• Heading the staff of HIIT and leading the recruitment of new staff
• Interacting with funding agencies, institutions, and corporations
• Strengthening the institute’s relationships with partners and other stakeholders globally as well as in Finland
• Developing the research excellence in co-operation with HIIT's parent universities
• Carrying out scientific research in a core area of HIIT and teaching at the doctoral level
Qualifications
We are looking for an internationally recognized leader and researcher in the field of computer science who has demonstrated a deep and broad understanding of computer science and information technology – of their applications and impact on users and society. An ideal candidate is a visionary strategist, and a sophisticated communicator with a proven ability to:
• Lead and manage a team of highly skilled research professionals
• Create and articulate management processes and show leadership
• Attract, lead and inspire a diverse group of talented researchers in a multicultural environment, both on-site and remotely
• Influence stakeholders, including leaders and technologists in industry, society as well as in academia
• Promote co-operation with companies, research institutes and universities at international level
A Doctoral degree is a requirement for the position. Knowledge of the parent universities is considered an asset.
How to apply?
Candidates interested in the position are asked to submit their applications through the University of Helsinki´s recruitment system at the latest on January 15th, 2025 (23:59 UTC +2). Applications must have the following attachments as one single pdf file (in English):
1) CV
2) A statement describing the candidate´s vision for developing HIIT´s operations
While all candidates who have applied by the deadline will be appropriately considered, Aalto University and the University of Helsinki reserve the right to consider also other candidates for the announced position.
Additional information
• Professor Jouko Lampinen. Dean at Aalto University, School of Science, Chair of the HIIT Board, Head of the Recruitment Committee (dean-sci@aalto.fi)
• Professor Sasu Tarkoma, Dean at the University of Helsinki, Faculty of Science, Vice Chair of the HIIT Board, (firstname.lastname@helsinki.fi)