General Director of the Low Altitude Systems and Economy Research Institute (LASERi) of HKUST(GZ)

About HKUST(GZ)

Formally established in June 2022, the HKUST(GZ) is a cooperatively-run university between the Chinese mainland and the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region. With a spirit of pioneering innovation, HKUST(GZ) charts new territories in campus-wide cross-disciplinary education and explores new frontiers in pedagogies, endeavoring to nurture future-ready, high-level and creative talents.

HKUST(GZ) adopts a brand-new and cross-disciplinary academic structure featuring “Hub” and “Thrust” to substitute the conventional one characterized by “school/college” and “department”, facilitating mission-oriented pursuit to address global challenges while developing emerging and frontier disciplines. We are proud of undertaking such new thinking in the global higher education community.

About LASERi

The LASERi, established in April 2024, is the first key university-wide research platform at HKUST(GZ). We recognize the vast potential and complexity associated with the low-altitude economy highlighted by heterogenous flight vehicles operating in the low airspace supporting passenger transportation, goods delivery, and a wide range of commercial, industrial, agricultural and environmental missions.

 The LASERi has so far attracted over 80 faculty and researchers to address key areas including data platform, information and physical flow, materials and manufacturing, and networks, navigation and safety. The LASERi has recently launched a Seed Project Scheme, funding dozens of selected projects to embark on path finding and solution provision in the designated areas.

 To advance the strategic development of LASERi, we are seeking a scholar of exceptional caliber to serve as its founding General Director. We welcome applications through both self-nomination and peer nomination. Attractive compensation and benefits as well as proactive professional support will be offered to support the appointee to excel in both academic and leadership areas.

Responsibilities for General Director

1. Provide vision, and to lead LASERi to become an influential research institution locally and globally;

2. Facilitate the conduct of research of high quality and impact, and promote genuine cross-disciplinary endeavors with the optimal use of resources;

3. Develop a domestic and international network to partner with government, industries and research institutions in education, research and knowledge transfer activities; 

4. Build relationships at all levels to strengthen cohesion among members of diverse backgrounds, and to create synergies in coordination with the Hubs and Thrusts within the University;

5. Work with the Executive Director and administrative staff to address all managerial responsibilities applicable to LASERi.

Qualifications for LASERi General Director

1. An earned doctorate degree, qualified to be appointed as a full professor at the University;

2. Distinguished academic achievements and international professional standing in closely related disciplines，demonstrated leadership through large-scale team management, and the ability to drive strategic institutional initiatives;

3. Commitment to fostering cross-disciplinary collaboration by working directly with the faculty and other researchers;

4. Excellent leadership, interpersonal, communication, and team-building skills, including capabilities and interest in engaging the government and the outside community;

5. Appreciation of international, multicultural university settings, and experiences in management of human resources, finance, and compliance.

This is a Chinese Mainland appointment, and the appointee will be offered a contract by HKUST(GZ) entity in accordance with Chinese Mainland labor laws and regulations.  Starting salary will be commensurate with qualifications and experience.

Application Procedure

To apply for the position, please submit your resume to [email protected]. If you have any specific questions, feel free to reach out to us via email.

We thank applicants for their interest but advise only shortlisted candidates will be notified of the result of the application. (Information provided by applicants will be used for recruitment and other employment-related purposes only.)

HKUST (GZ) is an equal opportunities employer and is committed to our core values of inclusiveness, diversity, and respect.