Project Manager – High Performance Computing (HPC) at ifm-us

The Institute of Foundation Models (IFM) at MBZUAI is building and operating large-scale GPU clusters supporting cutting-edge AI model training and research. We are seeking a highly organized and execution-oriented Project Manager to support the HPC function. This role will work closely with the HPC Lead to drive infrastructure projects end-to-end — coordinating vendors, internal university departments (IT, procurement, compliance, finance), and research stakeholders — while ensuring documentation, governance, and delivery tracking are properly maintained. Key Responsibilities HPC Project Execution & Coordination • Support planning and delivery of HPC infrastructure projects (GPU clusters, storage, networking, upgrades). • Coordinate with external vendors (hardware providers, cloud partners, data center operators). • Track project milestones, risks, dependencies, and timelines. • Maintain project plans, logs, and status reports. • Organize and document project meetings and action items. Cluster Portfolio Tracking & IFM Project Support • Maintain structured visibility of all major workloads and projects running on IFM clusters. • Track cluster allocation, major initiatives, and priority programs supported by HPC. • Build and maintain strong working relationships with IFM research teams and project owners. • Act as a coordination bridge to ensure key IFM projects receive proper infrastructure support. • Proactively identify risks impacting critical research timelines and escalate where needed. Cross-Department Coordination • Act as liaison between HPC team and University IT, Procurement, Finance, Legal, Compliance, and HR. • Ensure requirements are clearly documented and aligned across stakeholders. • Proactively follow up to remove blockers and maintain project momentum. Documentation & Governance • Maintain structured documentation of cluster specifications, contracts, SLAs, and change logs. • Support governance processes (SteerCo tracking, review cadences). • Assist with audit preparation and documentation consolidation. Compliance & Management Support • Assist with export control governance tracking and vendor compliance. • Support access control and user approval coordination with IT. • Track risk mitigation and regulatory documentation requirements Reporting & Executive Communication • Prepare concise leadership updates and executive summaries. • Develop slide decks and structured status reports. • Maintain dashboards for project status, budget tracking, and vendor performance. Educational Qualifications • Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Computer Science, Information Systems, Business, or a related field (required). • Master’s degree (MBA, Engineering, Technology Management, or related discipline) preferred. Required Experience • 5+ years of experience in Project Management. • Experience in technical or infrastructure projects. • Strong organizational and documentation skills. • Excellent written and verbal communication skills. • Ability to work cross-functionally in a complex organization.