Research Triangle Park (RTP) AAIA Chapter
Welcome to the RTP Chapter of the Applied AI Association
The Research Triangle Park (RTP) Chapter of the Applied AI Association (AAIA) serves as a hub for professionals, researchers, and enthusiasts in the AI ecosystem within the Triangle region of North Carolina. Our mission is to foster collaboration, share knowledge, and drive innovation in applied AI across the region's key industries.
About RTP
Established in 1959, Research Triangle Park has evolved into one of the largest research parks in the United States, renowned for its concentration of high-tech companies and research institutions. The region is anchored by three major research universities—Duke University, North Carolina State University, and the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill—contributing to its reputation as a powerhouse in technology and innovation. RTP's rich history and commitment to research and development make it a fertile ground for advancements in artificial intelligence and related fields. For more about RTP’s history of purposeful innovation, see https://www.rtp.org/history/
Key Industries in the Region
Healthcare and Life Sciences: Home to leading healthcare institutions and biotech firms, the RTP region is at the forefront of medical research and innovation.
Higher Education and Research: The presence of top-tier universities fosters a strong emphasis on research, providing a steady stream of talent and groundbreaking discoveries.
Technology and Innovation: With a robust ecosystem of tech companies and startups, RTP is a breeding ground for technological advancements, particularly in AI and machine learning.
Chapter Leadership
Chapter Head: Shareef Alshinnawi
Executive Committee Members: Murtza Naseem, Brian Moynihan
Our leadership team brings a wealth of experience in technology, business strategy, and community building, dedicated to advancing the application of AI in the region.
Join Us
The RTP Chapter hosts quarterly networking events, workshops, and discussions aimed at connecting professionals and fostering the growth of applied AI. Whether you're a seasoned expert or new to the field, we welcome you to be part of our vibrant community.
For more information or to get involved, please contact: Shareef Alshinnawi: shareef@aaiaglobal.com
Upcoming Events
See all events here.
Featured News
Featured Members
Research Triangle Park (RTP) Chapter Team
Brian Moynihan
Murtza Naseem
Shareef Alshinnawi
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President, shareef@aaiaglobal.com
Shareef Alshinnawi brings extensive experience from his roles as a Solutions Architect at IBM and Lenovo, where he led the design and deployment of large-scale High Performance Computing and AI solutions globally. Currently serving as Director of Business Development for strategic accounts at nVent, Shareef focuses on AI infrastructure and DataCenter cooling, and holds over 70 patents issued by the USPTO. As AAIA Chapter President, he looks forward to engaging with local companies, universities, and institutions dedicated to AI, expanding his network, and learning from subject matter experts. Shareef’s vision for the RTP chapter centers on building a vibrant community through learning and networking events, and growing membership among AI experts and those eager to deepen their knowledge of artificial intelligence.
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Executive Committee Member
With over 20 years of experience, Murtza Naseem has led strategic enterprise transformations, complex global mergers, divestitures, and post-deal integrations across the U.S., Europe, Asia, and Latin America. From launching 50+ EPMOs and IMOs to managing cross-functional teams of 250+ professionals, Murtza’s focus has always been on aligning strategy with flawless execution.
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Executive Committee Member
Brian Moynihan is an AI strategist, author of AI Culture Shift, and founder & CEO of Dreamspace AI Solutions. For more than two decades at the intersection of business, technology, and human systems, he has guided Fortune 500 companies, universities, and startups through mission-driven transformations powered by artificial intelligence. Nicknamed “the Zen MBA,” Brian pairs deep technical fluency with an MBA in Strategy & Entrepreneurship from UNC Kenan-Flagler and a master’s degree in Zen Buddhism.
Prior to launching Dreamspace, he led global VR innovation for Lenovo’s education division, built UNC-Chapel Hill’s cross-campus AR/VR programs, and served as Entrepreneur-in-Residence for AI & Emerging Tech at UNC, where he continues to advise researchers and executives on responsible AI adoption. Today his firm delivers fractional Chief AI Officer services—providing governance frameworks, readiness audits, and strategic roadmaps that keep human purpose at the center of AI initiatives.
As an Executive Committee Member for the AAIA RTP Chapter, Brian is passionate about cultivating a mission-first AI community across the Triangle. He looks forward to convening thought-provoking learning sessions, connecting local businesses with academic expertise, and helping members turn ethical AI principles into practical impact.