Dr. José Luis Ayala Pérez, Ph.D.

José Luis Ayala Pérez, Ph.D., is Vice President for External Resources at the University of Puerto Rico, where he leads strategies to strengthen research, diversify funding sources, and advance the University’s ecosystems in artificial intelligence, innovation, and entrepreneurship. He is an Associate Professor and researcher in communication, advertising, and creativity, with extensive experience in university leadership.

He has served as Associate Vice President for Academic Affairs and Research, Dean of Academic Affairs, and Founding Director of the University of Puerto Rico’s Office of Innovation and Entrepreneurship. His work focuses on connecting academia, research, and innovation with opportunities for collaboration and development that strengthen the University’s institutional capacity and contribute to Puerto Rico’s economic and social future.