Soroush Sabbaghan appointed as inaugural GenAI Educational Leader in Residence

The newest recruit to the Educational Leaders in Residence (ELR) program will focus on an area of research that is top-of-mind for most academic institutions; generative artificial intelligence (GenAI).

Dr. Soroush Sabbaghan, PhD’15 has been named as an Educational Leader in Residence (GenAI). This two-year position will allow him to participate in the advancement of GenAI practices, standards and pedagogies within the UCalgary community and beyond. 

ELRs are scholars and educators from across the academy who leverage their expertise to advance strategic institutional teaching and learning priorities. 

Sabbaghan is an Associate Professor at the Werklund School of Education, and his research and teaching center on the ethical integration of GenAI in educational contexts. His experience includes the development of GenAI-powered applications that enhance teaching and learning, which has supported his examination of the pedagogical, ethical and practical implications of AI in academia. 

The ELR GenAI reports to the Vice-Provost (Teaching and Learning), while collaborating with staff in the Taylor Institute for Teaching and Learning to strengthen partnerships and advance GenAI processes, standards, regulations and expertise across and beyond UCalgary.

An invaluable perspective on emerging GenAI tools 

“Dr. Sabbaghan’s research and experience enables him to offer an invaluable perspective on emerging GenAI tools and conversations that intersect with the many initiatives and plans within teaching and learning,” says Dr. Wendy Benoit, Interim Vice-Provost (Teaching and Learning). “I look forward to supporting Soroush in this new role as he engages with campus networks, produces resources, and contributes to scholarship."

Sabbaghan, who started the role on May 1, says he is eager to work closely with educators, students and staff to explore how GenAI can best support inclusive, creative, and collaborative approaches to learning. 

“What excites me most about this role is the opportunity to build bridges between generative AI and everyday teaching practice,” says Sabbaghan. “I see this position as a chance to share what I’ve learned, to demystify this technology, and to help our community use it in ways that are meaningful, responsible, and empowering.”