Associate Director of Research

Associate Director of Research

Posting Number: F2587P

Department: PSO‑Sea Grant Program

Location:

Athens Area, Athens, Georgia

Employment Type:

Employee (Non‑Tenure Track)

Benefits Eligible:
Yes

Anticipated

Start Date:

05/01/2026

Job Posting Date: 12/02/2025

Open Until Filled:
Yes

The associate director of research is a non‑tenure track public service faculty position that advances the mission of Marine Extension and Georgia Sea Grant by providing strategic leadership and coordination for the program’s research portfolio. The role oversees the administration of competitive research projects, ensuring alignment with Sea Grant and university priorities and compliance with federal and institutional requirements. It facilitates collaboration among faculty, extension and education professionals, and external partners to address critical coastal and marine issues, guiding the development, review, and reporting of research proposals and awards.

The position supports the dissemination of research results through communications, workshops, and symposia that connect science to application. Working closely with Marine Extension and Georgia Sea Grant leadership, the associate director contributes to strategic planning, program evaluation, and initiatives that enhance the impact, visibility, and relevance of Sea Grant‑supported research across Georgia and the broader region. This position is based in Athens, Georgia, but requires state, regional, national and potentially international travel.

It is an administrative, full‑time, benefits‑eligible, non‑tenured public service faculty appointment in the public service faculty career ladder at the University of Georgia.

• Master’s degree in a discipline related to marine science, ecology, environmental science, natural resources management, or a closely related field is required.

• At least 2 years of experience in program coordination, community engagement, providing research, education, and technical assistance to communities or related stakeholders related to coastal issues.

• Ph.D. and a record of research, education, or extension in natural or social sciences of marine, coastal, or natural resource disciplines is preferred.
• Record demonstrating a commitment to improving exchange between scientists, educators, extension agents, and stakeholders.
• Experience working in a university environment, multitasking, and collaborating with multiple constituencies is desirable.
• Experience working with federal, state, and non‑profit groups is desirable, as is a record of working in business administration.

• Familiarity with coastal and marine environments and issues, particularly as it relates to coastal management.
• Extremely strong communication skills, both verbally and in writing, especially as they pertain to interpreting/translating research‑based technical information for decision makers, practitioners, and the public.
• Ability to work collaboratively with research faculty, educators, students, and outreach and extension agents.
• Self‑motivation, the ability to work independently and as a member of a team, and the capacity to develop annual work plans with measurable outcomes.
• Relevant skills applicable to education and outreach, public speaking, facilitation, technical writing, statistical analysis, and computer use.
• Strong ability to work in an interdisciplinary environment and develop productive partnerships and collaborations with varied stakeholders.
• Ability to travel as needed is essential.
• Familiarity with impact documentation and assessment.
• Ability to supervise and manage staff.
• Ability to organize and facilitate seminars, workshops, and conferences, and to organize peer reviews.

• Manage the unit’s competitive funding opportunities, including biennial research awards, student funding programs, and other grant initiatives.
• Oversee the full funding cycle for different opportunities: develop requests for proposals, coordinate peer review, assemble…