State Botanical Garden Director of Science & Conservation

The State Botanical Garden Director of Science & Conservation at the University of Georgia oversees the Conservation Unit, manages faculty and staff, secures funding, and develops research and educational programs. Candidates should have a Ph.D. and at least 10 years of relevant experience. The role includes teaching responsibilities and requires effective communication, project management, and leadership skills. The position is based in Georgia and involves fieldwork and travel.
State Botanical Garden Director of Science & Conservation

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Please see Special Instructions for more details.

Compensation will be determined by the qualifications and experience of the successful applicant. Candidates will be considered until the position is filled. Application materials should include a cover letter, curriculum vitae, a brief writing sample from a technical report, and three references with contact information. Finalists will be required to provide three letters of recommendation.

Posting Details

Posting Number: F2361P

Working Title: State Botanical Garden Director of Science & Conservation

Department: PSO-State Botanic Garden of GA

About the University of Georgia: Since 1785, UGA has been Georgia’s oldest, most comprehensive, and diversified higher education institution. Ranked among the top 20 public universities in the U.S., it is located in Athens, with multiple campuses and over 41,000 students.

About the College/Unit/Department: The UGA State Botanical Garden– Who We Are: The Garden encompasses 323 acres with natural areas, specialty gardens, trails, educational programs, and art exhibits. It is a regional resource for conservation, education, and recreation, supporting native plant conservation and ecological resilience.

Our Culture: We disseminate knowledge through research and instruction, collaborating across disciplines and with external partners. We value diversity, excellence, and objective approaches to conservation and horticulture.

Position Details

Classification: Public Service Professional, Non-Tenure Track, 12 months

Minimum Qualifications: Ph.D. in botany, conservation horticulture, environment, public administration, agriculture, or related field.

Position Summary: The Director will lead the Science and Conservation department, manage faculty and staff, secure funding, develop research and educational programs, and collaborate with external partners. Teaching responsibilities include 6-7 credit hours annually within the Department of Horticulture.

Preferred Experience: 10+ years in conservation horticulture, knowledge of native plant preservation, curriculum development, and program management.

Key Skills: Effective communication, project management, leadership, grant writing, teaching, and collaboration skills.

Physical Demands & Additional Requirements

Work involves diverse field settings, travel, and equipment handling. The position involves financial management, security access, and some driving responsibilities. Background checks and other pre-employment requirements apply.

Duties & Responsibilities
• Manage the Conservation Unit: Oversee faculty, staff, programs, budgets, and contracts. Secure funding, produce scholarly work, supervise staff and students, provide technical assistance, and maintain external relationships.
• Teaching: Develop and teach courses related to native plants, conservation, and horticulture. Supervise internships and graduate students. Create online content and training materials.

Application Documents

Required: Resume/CV, Cover Letter, Writing Sample, List of References with Contact Information.
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