Dr. Lin Zhou is Vice President, Chief Information Officer and Executive Director of AI & Quantum Computing at Texas Tech University, where he leads technology strategy to enhance education, expand career pathways for students, accelerate innovation and strengthen the university’s global reputation.

With more than 25 years of leadership experience spanning Fortune 500 companies and higher education, Dr. Zhou played a pivotal role in growing IBM Watson Education from a startup into a global leader in artificial intelligence for education. A visionary executive and educator, he holds a Ph.D. in physics and is recognized as an expert in quantum computing, artificial intelligence and cloud computing. He holds numerous patents and has been honored as a Master Inventor by IBM.

During his tenure as Senior Vice President at The New School, Dr. Zhou established the university’s Innovation Center, founded its Quantum Initiative and launched the first Quantum Design Art Exhibition in Manhattan. He also led a transformation in customer experience, tripling the university’s Net Promoter Score and fostering a customer-centric culture.

Dr. Zhou’s work has been prominently featured on the Discovery Channel and has earned prestigious national and international recognition, including the CIO 100 Award, FutureEdge 50 Award and the QS Reimagine Education Gold Prize.

Passionate about talent development, Dr. Zhou has mentored high school students who became U.S. national winners in the world’s largest K–12 science competition. He is a sought-after keynote speaker and has shared his insights on global stages across Europe, Asia, the Middle East and the Americas.