The challenges posed by artificial intelligence are as great as its potential.

As it shapes our professional and personal futures, it is one of the major issues of our time. To harness such power, new professions have emerged, such as that of artificial intelligence engineer.

Overview and responsibilities of an artificial intelligence research and development project manager

They may be referred to as an artificial intelligence research engineer or an artificial intelligence researcher.

Their role is to examine AI technology through the lens of a project. This may involve innovation for the energy sector, the medical field, the service sector, the environment, and so on. Their work is that of a scientist, applied to the field of computing: defining and monitoring project specifications, conducting feasibility studies, analysis, testing, reporting and technology watch.

They design R&D programmes, draw up and oversee technology roadmaps, lead working groups with experts (in-house and/or external), and promote the results. The management of patents, licences and certification schemes also falls within their remit. All these tasks must, of course, be carried out within the agreed timeframes and budgets.

Business implications

When it comes to artificial intelligence, healthcare, finance and security take precedence, but other sectors are by no means excluded from the field: institutions (schools, government departments, public organisations), transport, recycling, defence, industry, the service sector


The work of the artificial intelligence researcher is crucial. No innovation is launched without a research and testing phase. The researcher then hands over to the engineers for implementation. The economic stakes are high for the R&D department; it is this team that brings a project to life. It is therefore thanks to them that the brand makes its decision: ‘go’ or ‘no go’.

Many companies have incorporated AI into their R&D departments. Some are already working on new products, whilst others are exploring how this new technology might benefit them.

Ethical implications
Ethics is intrinsically linked to artificial intelligence.

Big data has raised a host of questions regarding freedom and security. Legislation on these issues is currently being put in place. The AI R&D project manager is already confronted with ethical considerations during their research work.

They must also take these into account when anticipating risks (both ethical and legal). Experts such as AI legal specialists or ethics officers can provide valuable support in addressing these important issues.

aivancity’s programmes incorporate all aspects of artificial intelligence and its challenges – whether technical, technological, commercial, ethical or legal – into their curriculum. These are comprehensive, blended learning programmes that enable future engineers to acquire the highest possible level of knowledge and a broad range of expertise.
Key skills
As an expert in computer science research, the AI R&D project manager enjoys working as part of a team (comprising data scientists, business data analysts, AI ethics officers, data and AI lawyers, etc.). They are skilled at supervising and coordinating the work of the various stakeholders.

Precision, analysis and synthesis are the skills they draw on a daily basis. Methodical approach and organisation are, of course, their strengths. Their technical skills and technological knowledge are extensive and varied, enabling them to maintain as broad a perspective as possible.

Data science, machine learning, text mining and deep learning are their areas of expertise. They are familiar with the world of programming (Python, C/C++, Java, SQL, VB6, etc.), as well as database systems (Oracle, Neo4j, Access, GraphDB, etc.) and big data platforms (Hadoop, Spark).

The R&D project manager in artificial intelligence keeps abreast of technological developments and undertakes regular training.

Trends and drivers of change
Whether working in a company or a research centre, the R&D project manager in artificial intelligence can adapt to a variety of sectors. Some specialise after a few years’ experience. Career prospects are excellent. Managing a department or heading a research centre are among the potential career paths.

The artificial intelligence R&D project manager helps bring innovations to fruition.

It is a key role for any company wishing to utilise AI as part of its growth strategy.