Director of UM Field Station

University of Mississippi•University, MS

3d•Onsite

About The Position

The Director of the University of Mississippi Field Station (UMFS) provides strategic leadership and operational oversight for a 700-acre living laboratory consisting of diverse ecosystems, including mixed forests, grasslands, wetlands, springs, streams, and more than 220 lakes and ponds. The facility also includes research laboratories, office space, and other infrastructure that support interdisciplinary environmental research and education. The Director is responsible for managing the overall operations of the field station, including supervision of two to three staff members, budget administration, facility maintenance, and ensuring that research and educational resources are well-equipped, accessible, and effectively maintained. The position plays a critical role in advancing the UMFS mission by fostering a collaborative environment that supports high-impact ecological and environmental sciences research. Working with university leadership, faculty, students, and external partners, the Director will strengthen the field station's role as a premier center for ecosystem stewardship and environmental discovery. The successful candidate will ensure that all aspects of UMFS operations align with and support its three core mission areas: education, research, and outreach, while enhancing the station's visibility, impact, and service to the university and broader community.

Requirements

Bachelor's (Required)
Relevant experience | 7 Years
5 Years supervisory | Required

Responsibilities

Engages UM scientists and students to encourage use of UMFS for research and teaching activities with appropriate oversight (i.e. IACUC, IRB, Lab Safety)
Works with partners and collaborators to design, coordinate, and enhance outreach programs.
Partners with local/regional K-12 teachers to promote use of the UMFS for teaching purposes.
Seeks funding to support and grow summer camps and outreach activities for K-12 students and the public.
Establishes guidelines and policies to ensure UMFS facilities and properties are maintained in concert with long-term strategic plans.
Creates and maintains partnerships with internal and external partners.
Meets with target stakeholder groups to assess needs and gain input on plans for UMFS.
Researches and identifies potential funding sources for infrastructure improvements.
Develops and submits proposals for infrastructure improvements and broad-based science activities.
Partners with scientists to identify opportunities in which they may tap for UMFS-based projects.
Oversees and manages fiscal activities of the UMFS budget and affiliated grants and contracts.
Provides supervision and guidance to UMFS staff.
Encourages the use of the facilities for leisure activities such as picnicking, hiking, photography, fishing, and trail running.
Supports and encourages student organizations such as the UM Beekeepers and Hill Land Roots.
With departmental approval and demonstrated instructional need, the incumbent may be eligible for an additional non-promotable adjunct faculty appointment, allowing the individual to teach courses as a staff adjunct.