Website Smithsonian Environmental Research Center (SERC)
Marine Global Earth Observatory (MarineGEO) Director
Salary: $142,488 per year
Position Summary:
The Smithsonian Institution invites applications for the position of Director of the Tennenbaum Marine Observatories Network and Marine Global Earth Observatory (MarineGEO) program. MarineGEO is a global network comprising 24 observatories and multiple international partners, led by the Smithsonian. The program conducts coordinated large-scale research to study the changing structure and functioning of coastal ecosystems and explores strategies for sustainable management.
The ideal candidate is a distinguished mid-career biologist or environmental scientist with demonstrated success in leading international collaborations in marine ecological or environmental science.
Responsibilities:
- Develop an updated vision and strategy for MarineGEO, in collaboration with network members and stakeholders.
- Provide scientific and administrative leadership for MarineGEO’s globally distributed research programs.
- Catalyze interdisciplinary research programs focused on marine ecology, biodiversity, conservation, and sustainability.
- Advance cutting-edge technologies, including remote sensing, in situ monitoring, and AI tools.
- Lead strategic growth of MarineGEO’s network and secure the necessary funding base.
- Drive fundraising efforts for public grants and philanthropic support.
- Manage MarineGEO’s Central office and staff of four FTEs, plus postdocs, interns, and additional support personnel.
- Build and steward partnerships with programs worldwide, including Coastal Carbon Network, Marine Biodiversity Observation Network, and more.
Requirements:
- Doctoral degree or equivalent experience in natural resources management, environmental, social, or interdisciplinary sciences.
- Distinguished record in marine ecology, biodiversity, or conservation science.
- Demonstrated leadership in coordinating large-scale research projects and teams.
- Strong history of obtaining competitive grants, contracts, and philanthropic funding.
- Exceptional communication skills for internal and external collaborations.
Additional Information:
- Appointment as a Smithsonian Trust employee, IS-14 level, full-time.
- Competitive salary with paid leave, health, vision, dental, and other benefits.
- Proof of U.S. work authorization is required, but international applicants are welcome.
Application Instructions:
Submit a current curriculum vitae (CV) and a cover letter (maximum 2 pages) addressing:
- Interest in the position
- Vision for MarineGEO’s global network growth
- Experience coordinating large-scale, international research and teams
- Strategy and success in fundraising efforts
Key Dates:
- Application Deadline: May 8, 2025
- Start Date: Between August 1, 2025, and October 31, 2025
Research Environment:
MarineGEO staff are based at the Smithsonian Environmental Research Center (SERC), a research institute located on a 2,650-acre campus near Chesapeake Bay. The program is embedded in the Smithsonian’s Life on a Sustainable Planet (LSP) initiative, collaborating across Smithsonian units, such as SERC, NMNH, and STRI, and engaging with federal agencies, universities, and organizations worldwide.
Contact Information:
Name: Katelyn DiBenedetto
Email: DiBenedettoK@si.edu
To apply for this job email your details to DiBenedettoK@si.edu