Programme Manager Human-Centric AI

At Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, AI is never just about technology—it’s about people. Our researchers develop AI solutions that enhance human health, well-being, and participation in society. From digital drug design that accelerates the development of personalized medicines, to AI-supported rehabilitation tools that help patients recover faster, and AI-driven solutions that foster sustainable work participation for vulnerable groups—Human-Centric AI at VU is focused on creating impact for people and society.

As Programme Manager Human-Centric AI, you will help researchers across academic disciplines to deploy AI technologies effectively in their research and innovation projects. You facilitate collaborations with public and private partners, help secure funding, and support the development of large-scale multidisciplinary projects where AI plays a key role in research, innovation, and impact.

Within IXA-GO, the knowledge transfer, grants, and project office of VU Amsterdam, we empower researchers to maximize the impact of their work. Our team identifies funding opportunities, supports strategic collaborations, assists in business case development for start-ups, and connects researchers with relevant networks. Additionally, we offer support in intellectual property (IP) protection and funding strategies.

We are currently seeking a Programme Manager specializing in Human Centric AI to strengthen our IXA-GO project office team based at the dynamic VU Campus.

As a Programme Manager for Human Centric AI, you will be responsible for building and managing collaborative partnerships between researchers, other knowledge institutes, companies, government bodies, and societal actors. You will support researchers and the organisation in identifying and capitalising on collaboration and funding opportunities.

Key Responsibilities

• Identify and develop collaboration opportunities where AI and digital technologies enable research in fields such as health, life sciences, social sciences and humanities, and sustainability.
• Connect VU researchers to industry, healthcare organizations, government, societal partners, and other academic partners that can benefit from and contribute to AI-driven research and innovation projects.
• Position VU Amsterdam in national and international AI-related research initiatives and funding programmes, such as the National AI-Factory, NWO, ELSA Labs, NGF’s, Horizon Europe, and other international initiatives.
• Foster interdisciplinary collaborations where AI technologies are applied to address societal challenges.
• Monitor trends in AI application in research (e.g., data-driven healthcare, responsible AI, federated learning) and share insights with researchers and relevant stakeholders.
• Organize workshops, networking events, and knowledge exchange sessions around AI-enabled research themes.
• Liaise with the relevant internal and external stakeholders in the research and Valorisation & impact domain.

Your Profile

• You hold a Master’s or PhD in a relevant field ( Computer Science, Life Sciences, Health Data, Social Sciences and Humanities, or related), or have an equivalent background in innovation or business development in tech domains.
• You have several years of experience in programme management, innovation management, or business development, ideally in AI, digitalization, or data-driven domains.
• You have a solid track record in building partnerships between academia, industry, government, and civil society.
• You are familiar with AI developments and challenges, especially around responsible AI, data privacy, and ethics.
• You bring a hands-on, entrepreneurial mindset, are proactive, and take ownership.
• You enjoy operating in an international and interdisciplinary environment where technology meets societal needs.
• You are fluent in Dutch and English, both written and spoken.

IXA-GO offers you a challenging position within a professional and motivated team for an initial period of 12 months. An extension of your employment contract is possible.

On full-time basis the remuneration amounts to a minimum gross monthly salary of €4,537 (scale 11) and a maximum €7,056 (scale 12), depending on your education and experience. The job profile is based on the university ranking system (UFO) of Knowledge Valorisation Officer (2/3) and is open for at least 0,8 fte. The position is based on external funding and can be extended up to a maximum of 48 months (in accordance with art. 2.3 sub 7a CAO NU).

Most importantly, the nature of your work involves engaging with numerous different stakeholders and smart innovations that drive societal progress. This role will enable you to develop at a phenomenal rate and significantly strengthen your network.

At IXA-GO, we support researchers at VU Amsterdam in acquiring external funding, protecting intellectual property, and utilizing research outcomes—from licensing to launching spin-off companies. Our team includes Grants Officers, Business & Impact Developers, Programme/Project Managers, and a Marketing & Communication team.

IXA-GO is part of the Pan-Amsterdam collaboration IXA, the joint Knowledge Transfer Office of VU Amsterdam, Amsterdam UMC, the University of Amsterdam, and the Amsterdam University of Applied Sciences.

About Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam
Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam stands for values-driven education and research. Our researchers and students contribute to solving complex societal challenges by thinking freely and across disciplines. Located in Amsterdam’s Zuidas business district, VU Amsterdam fosters an inclusive, entrepreneurial, and innovative environment.

Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam is a values-driven university committed to addressing societal challenges through research and education. Our Human-Centric AI research is embedded in this mission—ensuring that AI technology is ethical, inclusive, and designed to serve humanity.

Diversity & Inclusion
VU Amsterdam is committed to diversity and inclusion. We believe that different perspectives lead to innovation, excellence, and broader understanding. We strive for a community that reflects diverse backgrounds and experiences.