The Director will lead continued growth of the MarineGEO network and research program, strengthen existing and emerging partnerships with complementary programs internationally, and build and steward MarineGEO’s collaborations and relationships with the broader ocean research community across the Smithsonian’s scientific units. The MarineGEO Director will report to the Director of the Smithsonian Environmental Research Center (SERC) and the Smithsonian’s Undersecretary for Science and Research (USSR).
DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES
- The Director will, working with network members and stakeholders, develop an updated vision and strategy for MarineGEO.
- The Director will provide scientific and administrative leadership of MarineGEO’s globally distributed research program, inspiring and catalyzing interdisciplinary research programs linking marine ecology, biodiversity, conservation, and sustainability. This includes working productively and regularly with MarineGEO’s Executive Committee, Smithsonian and unit leadership, and network partners.
- The Director will advance use of the latest technologies in remote sensing, in situ monitoring, and AI tools in the MarineGEO network.
- The Director will lead stewardship and strategic growth of MarineGEO’s network of collaborating research partners and observatories, and the budgetary base required to support these activities.
- The Director will provide fundraising leadership for MarineGEO’s global research program by developing and implementing extramural funding strategies that include both successful competition for public grant opportunities and cultivation of philanthropic support.
- The Director will oversee administration of MarineGEO’s Central office and staff of four current FTEs based at the Smithsonian Environmental Research Center, along with extramurally funded post-doctoral fellows, interns, and other support staff.
- The Director will ensure that MarineGEO’s work addresses on the ground management and conservation needs and support for wise management of coastal marine life and resources across the network.
- The Director will build and steward partnerships with complementary programs worldwide, such as the Coastal Carbon Network and Marine Invasions group based at SERC, the Ocean DNA program at the NMNH, the Marine Biodiversity Observation Network, the Global Ocean Observing System, and marine-centered federal agencies.
QUALIFICATION REQUIREMENTS
- Doctoral degree or equivalent level of specialized experience in a relevant field of natural resources management, environmental, social, or interdisciplinary sciences.
- Distinguished record of research productivity in marine ecology, biodiversity science, conservation, or related subject area, including demonstrated leadership in collaborative marine or environmental science.
- Strong record of success in obtaining research funding from competitive grants, contracts, and philanthropic sources.
- Demonstrated experience in managing and organizing teams and coordinating large-scale, research projects and teams.
- Excellent communication skills at all levels, including with internal and external collaborators.
This is a permanent, full-time appointment as a Smithsonian Trust employee at the IS-14 level, with a competitive salary, paid leave, health, vision, dental, and other benefits. Proof of authorization to work in the US is required, but international applicants are welcome. This is not a federal position.
Application deadline: May 8, 2025
Location: Edgewater, MD
