Associate Director of Research

Position Information Classification Title Public Service Professional AC FLSA Faculty Rank Public Service Associate Contract Type Fiscal (12 mo.) Tenure Status Non-Tenure Track Minimum Qualifications * Master's degree in a discipline related to marine science, ecology, environmental science, natural resources management, or a closely related field is required. Position Summary The associate director of research, a non-tenure track public service faculty position, advances the mission of Marine Extension and Georgia Sea Grant by providing strategic leadership and coordination for the program's research portfolio. This position oversees the administration of competitive research projects, ensuring alignment with Sea Grant and university priorities and compliance with federal and institutional requirements. The associate director of research 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. In addition to managing the unit's competitive funding, 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 of research 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. This 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. Additional Requirements * At least 2 years of experience in either program coordination, community engagement, providing research, education and technical assistance to communities or related stakeholders related to coastal issues. The successful candidate will be appointed at the rank of Public Service Assistant, Public Service Associate, or Senior Public Service Associate. For information about the requirements for each rank, please see Guidelines for Appointments and Promotion (Relevant/Preferred Education, Experience, Licensure, and/or Certification * Ph.D. and related research, education or extension record in natural or social sciences of marine, coastal or natural resource disciplines is preferred. * The applicant's record should demonstrate a commitment to improving exchange between scientists, educators, extension agents and stakeholders. * Record of working in a university environment, multitasking, and working with multiple constituencies is desirable. * Record of working with federal, state, and non-profit groups is also desirable as is a record of working in business administration. Preferred Knowledge, Skills, Abilities and/or Competencies * Familiarity of coastal and marine environments and issues, particularly as it relates to coastal management * Extremely strong communication skills both verbally and in writing particularly as it pertains to interpreting/translating research-based technical information for the understanding and use by decision makers, practitioners, and the public * Ability to work collaboratively with research faculty, educators, students, and outreach and extension agents * Ability to self-motivate, to work independently and as a member of a team, and to develop annual plans of work which include 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 to develop productive partnerships and collaborations with varied stakeholders * Ability to travel on an as needed basis 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 Physical Demands The position will require extensive travel in order to communicate between various constituencies on the coast, throughout the state and in Athens, where the position is located. Is this a Position of Trust? Yes Does this position have operation, access, or control of financial resources? Yes Does this position require a P-Card? No Is having a P-Card an essential function of this position? No Is driving a responsibility of this position? Yes Does this position have direct interaction or care of children under the age of 18 or direct patient care? No Does this position have Security Access (e.g., public safety, IT security, personnel records, patient records, or access to chemicals and medications) No Credit and P-Card policy Be advised a credit check will be required for all positions with financial responsibilities. For additional information about the credit check criteria, visit the UGA Credit Background Check website. Background Investigation Policy Offers of employment are contingent upon completion of a background investigation including, a criminal background check demonstrating your eligibility for employment with the University of Georgia; confirmation of the credentials and employment history reflected in your application materials (including reference checks) as they relate to the job-based requirements of the position applied for; and, if applicable, a satisfactory credit check. You may also be subject to a pre-employment drug test for positions with high-risk responsibilities, if applicable. Please visit the UGA Background Check website. Duties/Responsibilities Duties/Responsibilities Management of Competitive Funding * 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 and submit the omnibus proposal, and monitor funded projects. * Provide guidance to principal investigators and students on proposal development, grant compliance, and expectations. * Serve as the primary point of contact with funded researchers, staying informed of progress, milestones, and emerging findings. Percentage Of Time 20 Duties/Responsibilities Reporting and Program Evaluation * Oversee preparation and submission of required federal and university reports, ensuring compliance with National Sea Grant Office requirements. * Develop and maintain performance metrics and accountability materials to assess program effectiveness and research impact. * Support evaluation of funded projects and overall program outcomes to inform strategic planning and continuous improvement. * Supervision of reporting and evaluation coordinator Percentage Of Time 15 Duties/Responsibilities Internal Research Coordination * Share research updates with faculty, staff, and communications personnel to support integration of research into unit activities. * Identify opportunities for collaboration and overlap among research, extension, and education programs to maximize the impact and relevance of Sea Grant-supported research. * Serve as a champion of the research program within the unit, ensuring funded research informs and strengthens all aspects of the unit's mission. Percentage Of Time 15 Duties/Responsibilities Research Promotion and Partnerships * Recruit and engage university faculty and students across the state to participate in Marine Extension and Georgia Sea Grant funding competitions. * Represent the unit at state, regional, and national meetings to strengthen partnerships, advance research priorities, and promote opportunities. * Collaborate with communications staff to translate research findings into accessible formats for external stakeholders, partners, and the public. Percentage Of Time 15 Duties/Responsibilities Strategic Planning and Leadership * Serve on the Marine Extension and Georgia Sea Grant leadership team and act as primary contact for the National Sea Grant Office. * Lead strategic planning efforts, oversee omnibus development, and manage the advisory board, including meetings, agendas, and follow-up actions. * Align research priorities and funding strategies with organizational goals Percentage Of Time 15 Duties/Responsibilities Other Duties * Coordinate student opportunities including research, fellowships, and internships for the unit. * Secure extramural funding through grants and/or contracts to support applied research and outreach programs that address stakeholder and industry needs. Percentage Of Time 20 Posting Specific Questions Required fields are indicated with an asterisk (*). Applicant Documents Required Documents * Resume/CV * Cover Letter * List of References with Contact Information Optional Documents Persons needing accommodations or assistance with the accessibility of materials related to this search are encouraged to contact University HR (). The University of Georgia is an Equal Opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to age, color, disability, genetic information, national origin, race, religion, sex, or veteran status or other protected status.

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