AIRON programs combine structured learning, peer collaboration, and practical application to help research professionals build the capabilities needed to lead responsible AI adoption across their institutions.
Whether you are beginning your AI leadership journey or already championing change locally, our programs provide the knowledge, community, and support needed to accelerate impact.
AIRO Leads Program
A community-driven leadership program for AI in research.
The AIRO Leads Program is AIRON’s flagship learning experience — designed for professionals across higher education and research organizations who want to confidently guide AI adoption in their teams, departments, or institutions.
Born from the needs expressed by many of research managers, administrators, librarians, technologists, and analysts, the program blends structured learning with peer collaboration to help participants:
- Understand the evolving AI landscape in research
- Build practical, ethical, and responsible AI capabilities
- Experiment with tools and workflows that improve efficiency
- Influence leadership and shape institutional strategy
- Lead AI-enabled change with confidence, clarity, and integrity
- Join a global network of peers facing the same challenges.
The AIRO Leads Program is not just training — it is a supportive community and leadership accelerator for people driving real change.
What participants from the first AIRO Leads cohort (November 2025) say:
“I can’t recommend this programme enough. Lead by committed individuals who are working within research operations and take a supportive and practical approach it provides a welcoming environment to develop your AI skills and experiences while building your network.”
“Participating in the AI Lead Programme in Research Operations was a truly enriching experience. I came away with many valuable ideas—some long-term and others I’m already putting into practice. The programme gave me clarity, inspiration, and the tools to keep driving innovation in my work.”
What is included:
- Live workshops led by AIRON experts
- Peer roundtables & problem-solving groups
- Leadership & influence skills for AI champions
- Templates, guides, and evidence-based resources
- Case studies from institutions piloting or scaling AI
- A structured pathway for developing AI capability
- Access to the global AIRO Leads Alumni Community.
Meet the November 2025 Cohort Directors
AIRO Leads Alumni Community
Your network continues long after the program ends.
Graduates join the AIRO Leads Alumni Community, a growing global network of professionals leading AI adoption across research organisations.
Alumni receive access to:
• quarterly community meetups
• exclusive events and expert sessions
• shared resources and new case studies
• early access to AIRON Academy learning opportunities
• opportunities to mentor future cohorts
The alumni network provides a long-term community of practice for AI leadership in research operations.
Who the Program Is For
The AIRO Leads Program welcomes professionals working in:
• research management and administration
• research development, funding, and partnerships
• research governance, integrity, and policy
• libraries, information services, and digital scholarship
• research IT, digital innovation, and academic technology
• strategy, innovation, and research leadership roles.
Anyone supporting research operations in an AI-driven environment is welcome to apply.
Join the Next Cohort
The program runs in cohorts to support strong peer learning and collaboration.
Places are limited to maintain a high-quality experience.
Join the waitlist to receive early access to cohort announcements and program details.
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