Director of the Meadows Research Institute for West Texas Water

Location: Alpine, Department: Borderlands Research Institute

About the role

Located in the water-scarce Chihuahuan Desert, Sul Ross State University has a unique opportunity to address West Texas’ regional water resource challenges through research, service, and education. Groundwater is critical for landowners, communities, and wildlife in this arid and rural region, where more resources are needed to ensure that groundwater is well studied and managed. Eroded watersheds and aging water infrastructure in many West Texas communities exacerbate water security challenges, and technical support navigating solutions and funding is lacking in the region.

The Meadows Research Institute for West Texas Water (MRIWTW) aims to lead the development of collaborative solutions to these water challenges, supporting landowners, communities, and water managers through research, technical assistance, and on-the-ground projects. The Institute also educates the next generation of water experts to ensure a secure water future for West Texas.

MRIWTW is a new initiative temporarily housed and incubated by the Borderlands Research Institute for the next three years, after which it will become an independent institute at Sul Ross State University. The Institute, with assistance from the SRSU administration and a Steering Committee, has concluded an inaugural strategic plan outlining its vision, mission, and goals (available upon request).

Responsibilities

• Provide strong leadership overseeing both day-to-day activities and long-term initiatives of the MRIWTW.
• Serve as the primary ambassador for the MRIWTW, establishing it as an important asset for the University and surrounding regional communities.
• Secure financial resources to sustain operations and advance special projects.
• Ensure the work of the MRIWTW aligns with the University’s mission and strategic plan, and fosters strong partnerships with other University departments, centers, and institutes.
• Coordinate the development of curriculum to create a Water Resource program within the Department of Natural Sciences.
• Develop a robust extramurally funded water research program to meet the needs of local municipalities, water conservation districts, faculty researchers, and legislators.
• Support the development of degree programs and curricula to meet workforce demands for water resource professionals.
• Serve as a key partner for the region, assisting with informed decision-making regarding water conservation and planning through outreach and service.
• Provide effective leadership to MRIWTW faculty, staff, and students, ensuring they are equipped and motivated to perform their responsibilities in alignment with the Institute’s and University’s mission.
• Manage faculty and staff in adherence with sound human resources practices and University policies.
• Recruit, train, and retain a high-performing team.
• Partner with the SRSU Development Office and Associate Provost of Research and Development to design and execute fundraising strategies for general operating and program support from individuals, foundations, corporations, and government agencies.
• Communicate effectively with donors, clients, partners, elected officials, and other stakeholders.
• Guide the organization’s marketing and communications, ensuring regular and effective communication with internal and external stakeholders.
• Serve as the principal spokesperson for MRIWTW, reinforcing and articulating its mission internally and externally.
• Build and maintain transparent communication with colleagues, students, and faculty across University departments.
• Explore partnership initiatives consistent with MRIWTW’s mission, vision, and values.
• Direct and supervise MRIWTW finances, establishing, overseeing, and managing operational and program budgets and expenditures.
• Ensure the integrity and completeness of financial information systems, processes, internal controls, and reporting.
• Provide timely and accurate financial reporting and program outcomes to University leadership and key staff members.
• Ensure compliance with all applicable federal, state, and local laws and regulations.

Requirements

• Ten plus years of progressive professional experience, with at least five years in water- or natural resource-related administration, research, or advocacy.
• Substantial senior leadership experience within the water sector, demonstrating knowledge of key senior management functions, including:
  • Designing and implementing research projects
  • Financial management
  • Development and fundraising
  • Stakeholder relations
  • Faculty/staff relations and accountability
  • Marketing and communications
  • Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite, spreadsheet software, internet software, and email
• Highly self-motivated with the ability to work independently while serving as an effective team leader.
• Ability to carry out supervisory responsibilities in accordance with MRIWTW’s and the University’s policies and applicable laws.

Qualifications

A doctorate in Hydrology, Geology, Natural Resource Science, Water Resource Management, or closely related fields is preferred. With a doctorate, this is a tenure-track faculty position. Applicants with other degrees in these fields are encouraged to apply.

About Sul Ross State University

Our campuses span a fascinating part of Texas—Alpine, in the heart of the beautiful Big Bend area, and Del Rio, Eagle Pass, and Uvalde along the vibrant, bicultural Texas/Mexico border. Sul Ross State University is vital to the continued growth and progress of our students and the communities we serve. We provide students with the education they need to translate their passions into fulfilling careers, creating a multi-generational impact that transforms lives and communities.

We value learning and strive to provide high-quality education in a welcoming, supportive environment. We serve a diverse population, including many first-generation college students, non-traditional students, international students, student-athletes, and graduate students. Sul Ross offers more than 60 undergraduate and graduate degree programs in fields such as teaching, coaching, law enforcement, science, ranch management, and the Fine Arts.