Assistant Dean of Administrative Affairs – School of Digital Public Health

The Mohamed bin Zayed University of Artificial Intelligence (MBZUAI) invites applications for the position of Head/ Assistant Dean of Administrative Affairs in the newly established School of Digital Public Health (SDPH).

As MBZUAI expands its academic portfolio to advance the application of AI in health, the School of Digital Public Health will pioneer interdisciplinary education and research at the intersection of artificial intelligence, data science, and public health, supporting the UAE’s vision to become a global leader in AI-driven innovation for health and well-being.

Role Summary

The Head/ Assistant Dean of Administrative Affairs will serve as the administrative and operational lead of the School, working closely with the inaugural Dean to establish and oversee all non-academic functions that enable the School’s success. This position plays a pivotal role in ensuring effective planning, coordination, and execution of the School’s strategic, financial, and administrative priorities.

Key Responsibilities

• Support the Dean to develop and implement administrative systems, policies, and processes that support the School’s growth and operations.
• Manage the School’s budget, staffing plan, procurement, and resource allocation in coordination with central university offices.
• Support faculty recruitment, onboarding, and performance planning in collaboration with the Office of Academic Appointments and the Assistant Provost.
• Lead the planning and development of research laboratories and facilities, in close coordination with the Research Office and central operations teams (including Facilities, Projects, and Procurement).
• Coordinate the School’s academic scheduling, facilities, and space planning needs.
• Provide analytical and operational support for strategic planning, academic program development, and reporting.
• Oversee and develop the School’s administrative team, ensuring efficient delivery of services to faculty, students, and researchers.
• Serve as a liaison between the School and university administrative and research units to streamline processes and ensure alignment with institutional goals.
• Contribute to building a collaborative, high-performance culture that supports innovation and academic excellence.

Academic Qualifications and Experience

• A master’s degree or higher in business administration, public administration, or a related field.
• At least 10 years of progressive administrative leadership experience in higher education, research, or healthcare organizations.
• Proven experience in academic operations, budgeting, HR planning, and resource management.
• Demonstrated experience in establishing or managing research facilities and technical operations is highly desirable.
• Strong understanding of university governance and academic administration.
• Excellent organizational, communication, and interpersonal skills, with the ability to lead through collaboration and influence.