Dr Aisha Abuelmaatti, Senior Lecturer/Academic Head for the Centre of Excellence in AI in Education

26 November 2025

Can you tell us a little bit about yourself and how long you’ve worked at Queen Mary?

I joined Queen Mary in 2021, and before that, I spent nine years working across different higher education academic institutions, gaining diverse experience and constantly learning. I’ve always been eager to grow, get involved, and take on challenges; so the learning curve was steep, but incredibly rewarding. I’m truly grateful for the opportunities that have shaped my journey so far.

Describe your average day/week

I like to be involved, optimised, and busy. I feel most satisfied when I know I’ve made a difference; whether that’s through solving problems, connecting the dots, or supporting others. I enjoy looking at the bigger picture, thinking ahead, and aligning my work with strategic goals. My days and weeks are always full, and if they weren’t, I would find something meaningful to work on. I thrive on momentum and purpose.

Are there any key projects you are currently working on that you’d like to highlight?

I am leading several initiatives that bring together my passion for education, AI, and creating opportunities for others, including the development of an Executive AI Education programme as well as a deep dive into AI literacy Graduate Attributes aligned with the ACE approach. Alongside these, I am organising an employer event highlighting the growing importance of AI, which will be followed by an academic retreat to further strengthen our strategic direction. I am also overseeing the Alumni Entrepreneur Awards, celebrating innovation and achievement across our community. Together, these projects reflect my commitment to empowering learners and shaping a future where AI enhances both education and opportunity.

What do you see as your role in helping the University achieve its Strategy 2030?

My passion lies in employability and AI; areas that are central to Strategy 2030. Queen Mary truly is a university of opportunities, and I’m motivated by making a real impact, whether or not it’s visible. Helping students recognise their skills, strengths, and possibilities gives me genuine satisfaction. I see my role as contributing to a forward-looking, opportunity-rich environment that supports success in a rapidly evolving world.

What’s your favourite place on any of our campuses?  

My favourite place is the canal. The first time I discovered it was when I was meeting a colleague, and needed a quiet moment to reflect. It was transformative; one step away from the wonderful hustle and bustle of campus life, and suddenly you’re in a calm, peaceful space. It’s the perfect spot to recharge, think clearly, and then return with renewed energy.

Do you have any hobbies, pastimes outside of work?

I love swimming, and I absolutely love travelling. Both give me space to breathe, explore, and reconnect with myself.

Is there any training you have done with Queen Mary or externally that you’d recommend?

I would highly recommend the Pathways to Leadership programme. It’s an excellent opportunity to connect with inspiring colleagues from across the university and develop new perspectives.

Are there any stories about Queen Mary and its history that you know of and can tell us about?

One of the things I’ve always admired about Queen Mary is its historic commitment to widening access. The University’s origins are rooted in serving London’s diverse communities and creating opportunities for those who traditionally had limited access to higher education. That legacy of inclusion still shapes our mission today, and it’s something I feel proud to contribute to.