Overview

The Office of the Executive Vice President and Provost invites applications for a year-long pilot program aimed at equipping UNLV faculty and staff with the skills to harness generative AI in various aspects of their work. This program offers an opportunity for academic and administrative faculty members to learn about generative AI applications and then serve as resources for their colleagues.

Generative AI will dramatically impact many facets of academia and higher education administration. By integrating AI tools into the classroom, educators can enhance teaching methodologies, personalize learning experiences, and engage students in new ways. In laboratories, researchers can use AI tools to improve data analysis, streamline complex processes, and accelerate the process of discovery. Within administrative operations, staff can leverage AI solutions to enhance workflows, increase efficiency, and automate rote processes.

Recognizing the transformative potential of AI, the Generative AI Fellows Pilot Initiative will provide cohort-based opportunities for learning about relevant tools and resources. Participants will be part of one of three different cohorts, each focusing on a particular area of AI application:

1. Integrating AI into Teaching and Learning

  • Facilitator
    This cohort will be led by the Teaching and Learning Commons
  • Focus
    Supporting faculty in considering the urgent questions that the AI disruption of higher education presents and learning tools and strategies to redesign courses in ways to foster student engagement and improve their learning.
  • Learning Outcomes
    Participants will complete an online training course as a cohort, engage in group discussions, and develop and implement a plan for creating and nurturing an AI learning community in their college/school.  

2. Advancing Research with AI

  • Facilitator
    This cohort will be led by the Division of Research and the Office of Information Technology (OIT).
  • Focus
    Empowering researchers to leverage AI tools for research processes, including data analysis, grant writing, and task automation.
  • Learning Outcomes
    Participants will explore AI applications in research and grant writing and will also work to implement a plan to promote AI literacy and integration within the UNLV research community.

3. Optimizing Administrative Operations with AI

  • Facilitator
    This cohort will be led by the Office of Information Technology (OIT).
  • Focus
    Exploring AI solutions to streamline administrative tasks, improve data management, and support decision-making processes.
  • Learning Outcomes
    Participants will gain practical knowledge of AI tools for administrative tasks and will develop a strategy to encourage responsible AI adoption and foster AI-driven innovation across campus administrative units.

Participants in this one-year program will receive a stipend. In return, they will commit to undertake training, develop educational materials, conduct workshops, and serve as campus resources. This initiative not only aims to build individual capacities but also to create a network of AI-savvy professionals who can support and inspire their colleagues.

Benefits to Participants

  • Be recognized as a member of the inaugural UNLV Generative AI Fellows cohort.
  • Gain knowledge and practical skills in generative AI.
  • Network with colleagues across different units and disciplines.
  • Support department colleagues and contribute to the advancement of AI literacy and application at UNLV.
  • Receive a $2500 stipend for participation.

Eligibility

This program is open to all regular full-time academic and administrative faculty members at UNLV. Temporary employees are not eligible to participate in the program.

Application Process

Applications must be submitted through the online application form by Friday, September 27, 2024 at 5 p.m.

Application requirements include:

  • CV or Resume: Provide an updated curriculum vitae or resume.
  • Statement of Interest: Submit a one-page statement explaining your interest in the program, including how you plan to use the training in your role and your vision for assisting colleagues.
  • Endorsement from Department Chair or Supervisor: Provide a half-page signed letter from your department chair or supervisor affirming that they support your participation in this program during the 2024-2025 academic year and will adjust your workload accordingly.

Selection Criteria

Applicants will be evaluated based on:

  • Demonstrated interest and potential to integrate AI into their work.
  • Commitment to serving as a resource and mentor to other faculty and staff.
  • Support and endorsement from their chair or supervisor.

Program Timeline

  • Application Deadline: Sept. 27, 2024
  • Notification of Acceptance: Oct. 4, 2024
  • Training Dates: October - January, 2025

Contact Information

For any questions, please contact evpp@unlv.edu.