AIRON Programs bring together structured learning, peer connection, and real-world application to help research professionals build the capabilities needed to lead AI adoption across their institutions. Whether you are just beginning your AI leadership journey or already championing change locally, our programs provide the community, confidence, and support to accelerate your 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 senior leaders 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 to build capability
- Access to the global AIRO Leads Alumni Community.
Meet the November 2025 Cohort Directors
AIRO Leads Alumni Community
Your network doesn’t end when the program does.
Graduates of the AIRO Leads Program join our dedicated Alumni Community — a growing global network of AI champions across higher education and research institutions.
Alumni receive ongoing access to:
- Quarterly community meetups
- Exclusive events and expert sessions
- Shared resources and new case studies
- Early access to AIRON Academy training
- Opportunities to mentor future cohorts
- A supportive space to collaborate and stay connected.
The Alumni Community ensures your leadership journey continues long after the program ends.
How to Join the Next Cohort
The AIRO Leads Program runs in cohorts to create strong connections and shared learning experiences.
Enrollment is open to professionals working in:
- Research management & administration
- Research development & funding
- Research governance & integrity
- Libraries, information services, and digital scholarship
- Research IT, digital innovation & academic technology
- Strategy, policy, and research leadership roles
- Anyone supporting research operations in an AI-driven environment.
Spaces are limited to maintain a high-quality, collaborative experience.
Join the Waitlist
Be the first to know when the next cohort opens.
Receive priority enrollment, early access to program details, and exclusive updates.
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