Associate Director of Research

Associate Director of Research

All applications received by February 14, 2026 are assured full consideration.

Job Number: F2587P |

Working Title:

Associate Director of Research | Department: PSO-Sea Grant Program | Posting Type:
External | Retirement Plan: TRS or ORP |

Employment Type:

Employee | Benefits:
Eligible | Compensation:
Determined by qualifications and experience.
Anticipated

Start Date:

May 1 2026 | Job Closing Date:
Open until filled.

The University of Georgia, chartered by the state of Georgia in 1785, is the birthplace of public higher education in America and the state’s flagship university (https://(Use the "Apply for this Job" box below).). UGA has more than 240 years of academic and professional achievements and a continued commitment to higher education. It is currently ranked among the top 20 public universities by U.S. News & World Report.

The main campus is located in Athens, approximately 65 miles northeast of Atlanta, with extended campuses in Atlanta, Griffin, Gwinnett, and Tifton. UGA employs approximately 3,100 faculty and more than 7,700 full‑time staff. The University’s enrollment exceeds 41,000 students, including over 31,000 undergraduates and over 10,000 graduate and professional students. Academic programs reside in 19 schools and colleges, including our newly established School of Medicine.

UGA Marine Extension and Georgia Sea Grant provides integrated research, education and extension programs that foster the responsible use of Georgia’s coastal resources by individuals, decision‑makers and management agencies. The program is managed through a federal‑state partnership between the University of Georgia and the National Oceanic Atmospheric Administration’s National Sea Grant College Program, a national network of 34 Sea Grant programs located in coastal and Great Lakes states and territories.

Marine Extension and Georgia Sea Grant’s mission is to improve the environmental, social and economic health of the Georgia coast through research, education and extension.

Strategic Plan outlines four focus areas:

• Environmental Literacy and Workforce Development
• Healthy Coastal Ecosystems
• Sustainable Fisheries and Aquaculture
• Resilient Communities and Economies

Read the Marine Extension and Georgia Sea Grant’s 2024‑2027 Strategic Plan here.

The associate director of research is a non‑tenure track public service faculty position that provides strategic leadership and coordination for the program’s research portfolio. The position oversees 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 dissemination of research results through communications, workshops, and symposia.

It is based in Athens, Georgia, but requires state, regional, national and potentially international travel.

• Master’s degree in a discipline related to marine science, ecology, environmental science, natural resources management or a closely related field.
• At least 2 years of experience in program coordination, community engagement, or providing research, education, and technical assistance to communities related to coastal issues.

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

• Familiarity with coastal and marine environments and issues, particularly as it relates to coastal management.
• Ex…