Assistant Director and Assistant Scientist - Invasion Science Institute

About the role

The University of Florida Invasion Science Institute is seeking an Assistant Director for a 12-month, non-tenure-accruing position. This position will be 50% administration (Assistant Director), and 50% research (Assistant Scientist, Florida Agricultural Experiment Station) with the University of Florida Invasion Science Institute.

Responsibilities

• Developing, overseeing, and reporting on Institute programs
• Preparing and tracking budgets
• Supervising staff
• Supporting grant development and writing efforts
• Representing the Institute in conferences and meetings
• Cross-disciplinary invasion science research teams and collaborative projects
• Pursuing contract and grant funding
• Mentoring postdoctoral researchers and graduate students
• Disseminating information on the risk and impacts of invasive species

Essential Administrative Functions

• Fiscal Operations: Oversee Institute fiscal operations and grant activities, ensuring accuracy and compliance with sponsor, university, and regulatory requirements.
• Program Development, Operations, Facilities, and Communications: Support development and implementation of Institute programs and operations, ensuring compliance with university, state, and federal regulations.
• Planning and Policy Development: Serve as a member of the Institute management team and contribute to strategic planning and policy development, ensuring adherence to federal, state, and university research regulations.
• Personnel Management and Development: Supervise Institute administrative and fiscal staff, providing daily oversight, establishing performance goals and expectations, and ensuring staff activities align with Institute priorities.

Required Qualifications

• Doctorate degree (foreign equivalent acceptable) in natural resources, life sciences, or environmental education or communications discipline with applicability to invasion science, and at least two years of relevant experience; or a Master's degree in those same disciplines and at least ten years of relevant experience.
• Candidates must be supportive of the mission of the Land-Grant system and must also have a commitment to UF core values.

Preferred

• Experience in organization and administration in academic centers or institutes, governmental or non-governmental conservation organizations, or natural resources agencies.
• Demonstrated expertise in the development of programs that foster collaboration in science and environmental education.
• Excellent demonstrated skills in verbal and written communication.
• Strong interpersonal skills with the ability to work strategically.
• Demonstrated success in procurement and management of external funding.