Executive Director / Director General (N@DIR)

About the role

The National Institute for Demographics and Identity Research (N@DIR) is being established under the auspices of the National Database and Registration Authority (NADRA). N@DIR will serve as a national centre for biometrics, digital identity, registration-process research, independent testing, sovereign ABIS/AFIS technologies, identity assurance and indigenous technology development. The Executive Director / Director General will provide strategic, scientific and institutional leadership, implement the institute's mandate and roadmap, and represent N@DIR at national and international forums.

Posts and vacancies

• Executive Director / Director General (N@DIR)

Eligibility

• Educational background: Master's / MS / MPhil degree in Computer Science, Artificial Intelligence, Machine Learning, Computer/Electrical/Electronics Engineering, Information Technology, Data Science, Mathematics, Statistics, Cybersecurity, Biometrics, Computer Vision, Digital Identity or a closely related discipline from an HEC-recognized institution. Degrees must be attested by HEC. Preference will be given to candidates holding a Ph.D./Doctorate.

• Professional experience: Minimum 15 years of relevant post-qualification experience, including substantial senior leadership experience in technology, research, engineering, biometrics, digital identity or high-assurance ICT systems. Proven experience in leading large-scale R&D, technology innovation or engineering programmes is required. Demonstrated capabilities in large team management, stakeholder management, policy and regulation compliance, research prototyping, independent testing, benchmarking, pilot deployment and technology transfer are required.

• Additional desirable skills and experience: qualifications or experience in biometrics, AI/ML, cybersecurity, digital identity technologies, standards, certification, conformance testing, applied cryptography, intellectual property, technology management and commercialization will be an advantage.

• Age limit: Maximum 55 years.

(The advertisement sets out responsibilities including leading development of Pakistan-owned AFIS/ABIS and biometric technologies; establishing testing, benchmarking, standards and certification capability; overseeing R&D of biometric devices and secure enrolment equipment; building multidisciplinary teams; developing research portfolios, roadmaps and budgets; and establishing secure research environments, data governance, privacy, cybersecurity and research-ethics controls.)