Director, Girard Marine Science Center and the School of Marine and Environmental Programs

The Director of the Girard Marine Science Center (GMSC) and the School of Marine and Environmental Programs at the University of New England is responsible for leading all strategic, academic, research, and programmatic functions for the School and Center. The Director will work with faculty, professional staff, University leadership, and external partners to elevate the national and international reputation of UNE’s marine and environmental science programs by ensuring that undergraduate and graduate students have a first-class educational experience and by promoting a robust research agenda. This work includes leading strategic planning and implementation; growing existing academic programs and developing new curricula; expanding research and external funding; recruiting, retaining, and mentoring an outstanding faculty who excel in teaching and research; fostering student success, including the delivery of high-impact and hands-on experiences; and overseeing a strong administrative and operations staff and infrastructure.

The Director reports directly to the Dean of the College of Arts and Sciences and works closely with the Senior Associate Provost and Vice President for Research and Scholarship. The Director leads the faculty and professional staff of GMSC and SMEP in developing and advancing a shared vision for the future of Marine and Environmental programs at UNE, encouraging a culture of collaboration, innovation, and academic excellence.

To learn more about the University of New England, the College of Arts and Sciences, the School of Marine and Environmental Programs, the Girard Marine Science Center, and this exciting leadership opportunity, we encourage you to review the Director, Girard Marine Science Center and the School of Marine and Environmental Programs Search Profile.

Review of applications will begin immediately. For priority consideration, applications must be received no later than June 6, 2025. To apply, please submit the following materials:

of relevant experience and leadership style.
• Curriculum vitae
• Names and contact information for three professional references

Responsibilities

Academic Leadership

• Develop an actionable, compelling, and broadly supported strategic vision for the School and Center
• Ensure academic excellence in all programs by reviewing and planning all academic matters
• Thoughtfully use data to lead program assessment and improvement efforts
• Mentor and develop faculty, including through the reappointment, promotion, and tenure process
• Play an active and integral role in student recruitment and retention
• Engage in public intellectualism and serve as a regional, national, and international thought leader for issues related to the School and Center
• Work with faculty, professional staff, and administrators to achieve operational excellence
• Teach within an area of expertise and contribute to the University, College, and community service

Research and Faculty Development

• Work in partnership with the Senior Associate Provost and Vice President of Research to align research initiatives with institutional priorities and support research faculty development
• Mentor and provide career development for faculty to support successful promotion, reappointment, and tenure (as applicable)
• Mentor research faculty in grant writing and proposal development
• Further develop distinctive opportunities for faculty-led student research
• Guide faculty and professional staff in the development of outreach and educational activities aligned with the Center’s research mission

Administrative and Operational Oversight

• Serve on the College of Arts and Sciences Dean’s Leadership Team
• Oversee the GMSC and SMEP Assistant and Associate Directors to manage GMSC facilities and operations, including space utilization for research, education, and community engagement
• Oversee training and safety protocols and fieldwork standards
• Develop, analyze, and manage operating budgets for the GMSC and SMEP
• Ensure that the GMSC is in compliance with local, state, and federal regulations, guidelines, and licensing agreements
• Conduct annual performance evaluations and goal setting for faculty and professional staff
• Collaborate with Institutional Advancement on fundraising efforts

Community Engagement

• Represent and promote the GMSC and SMEP to academic institutions, agencies, and organizations at the local, state, national, and international levels
• Build partnerships with colleges, schools, and businesses to support student recruitment, research collaborations, and community engagement
• Support and cultivate relationships with external partners, including donors, foundations, and corporations

Qualifications

• Ph.D. in a marine-related field and an academic record that merits tenure
• Demonstrated experience in leadership, administration, mentoring, grant acquisition, and strategic planning and implementation
• Excellent interpersonal skills and the ability to effectively work with and lead diverse teams within the University and with external partners
• Outstanding oral and written communication skills
• Track record of data-informed decision-making
• Familiarity with marine lab operations, safety protocols, permitting, and licensing
• Familiarity with field work operations and safety protocols
• Familiarity with research compliance