University of Arizona Taps AI Expert David Ebert for New Leadership Role
The University of Arizona is poised to enhance its stature in artificial intelligence and data science with the recent appointment of David Ebert as its first chief AI and data science officer. Ebert, who is known globally for his contributions to AI and data science, will spearhead the university’s strategic initiatives in these fields.
This strategic recruitment was facilitated by a generous $3.5 million donation from an anonymous benefactor, which established the Computer Science Engineering Endowed Innovation Chair, a position Ebert will now hold. His responsibilities will include reporting directly to the senior vice president for Research, Innovation & Impact.
Ebert’s role will involve crafting a cohesive vision for AI and data science at the university, leveraging its existing strengths to foster innovation, increase research capabilities, and position the institution as a frontrunner in the ethical use of AI and machine learning. Additionally, he will join the College of Engineering as a tenured faculty member in the Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering. In these capacities, he will assist in developing the college’s computer science engineering program and contribute to faculty recruitment and research strategy, supported by $1.5 million from the anonymous donor.
The timing of Ebert’s appointment aligns with the university’s ongoing efforts to position itself as a leader in emerging technologies, especially those that align with national AI and data research priorities. His mandate includes fostering partnerships, embedding AI and data science across disciplines, and securing funding to tackle large-scale societal issues such as health, environmental sustainability, national security, and beyond.
“Dr. Ebert brings extraordinary expertise in data visualization, explainable AI and interactive machine learning to our institution,” remarked Tomás Díaz de la Rubia, senior vice president for Research, Innovation & Impact. “His leadership will be transformational as we integrate AI and data science across the university and the state, expanding our research and operational impact while training the next generation of innovators.”
Ebert previously held notable positions, including the Gallogly Chair Professor of Electrical and Computer Engineering and director of the Data Institute for Societal Challenges at the University of Oklahoma. He has also served as the chief AI officer and associate vice president for research and partnerships. At Purdue University, he was the Silicon Valley Professor of Electrical and Computer Engineering. An IEEE fellow, Ebert is a recipient of the IEEE Computer Society VGTC Technical Achievement Award. His extensive research portfolio includes visual analytics, explainable AI, human–computer teaming, and predictive analytics.
In his new capacity, Ebert will drive the university’s AI and health initiative and consolidate existing data-centric programs into a newly formed Data Science Institute. He will work closely with academic, administrative, and IT leaders across the campus to embed AI into the university’s academic and decision-making processes. Ebert’s efforts will also focus on building impactful research consortia and securing funding from major agencies such as the Department of Energy and the National Science Foundation.
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