“Dr. Graham is an ideal fit to lead the Smithsonian Environmental Research Center,” said Lonnie G. Bunch III, Secretary of the Smithsonian. “His proven track record in ocean science and his ability to forge meaningful partnerships align perfectly with our goals centered on research, education, engagement, and national impact.”
Graham brings nearly three decades of dedicated service and experience in marine and estuarine research, education, and executive leadership from his work at prominent institutions. Most recently, Graham was the Director of the Florida Institute of Oceanography, a state-wide consortium of 32 members, including universities and colleges, state agencies, industry, non-profits, and the Fort Pierce Marine Station of the Smithsonian’s National Museum of Natural History. He also has worked at the Dauphin Island Sea Lab and the University of Southern Mississippi.
Graham’s work has significantly contributed to advancing ocean science, developing capacity at marine laboratories, and fostering collaborations across local, state, and federal agencies. His scientific expertise covers coastal ecological oceanography with a focus on the role of large gelatinous plankton, or jellyfish, in productive coastal ecosystems. In 2022, he had a new species of jellyfish, Aurelia montyi, named after him in recognition of his groundbreaking research. To date, he has published over 90 scientific articles.
Throughout his career, Graham has demonstrated a strong commitment to building institutional capabilities, promoting education, and engaging with wide-ranging communities. His leadership in establishing new research programs, securing investments, and spearheading innovative projects—such as the Roger F. Wicker Center for Ocean Enterprise in Gulfport, Mississippi, the donation of the research vessel Western Flyer, and the development of the Peerside workforce development program—exemplify his strategic vision and dedication to fostering a vibrant scientific community.
“I am honored to join SERC and look forward to working with the talented team to deepen our understanding of environmental systems, especially as they relate to the human enterprise,” Graham said. “Together, we can increase the Smithsonian’s global leadership in environmental science and foster a greater appreciation for the natural world.”
“SERC is dedicated to understanding the complex interactions within and between ecosystems and finding solutions that work for people and nature,” said Ellen Stofan, the Smithsonian’s Under Secretary for Science and Research. “Dr. Graham’s appointment marks a new chapter in SERC’s ongoing commitment to excellence and real-life impact, and we are excited about the leadership he brings to this vital work.”
Graham is a native of Danville, Kentucky, where he spent two years at Centre College before earning his Bachelor of Science degree from the University of North Carolina Wilmington and his master’s and doctorate degrees from the University of California Santa Cruz. His career and life experiences have spanned multiple states, including North Carolina, California, Alabama, Mississippi, and Florida, giving him a deep understanding of environmental systems across the country.
