HAPPENINGS

The Pacific Islands Climate Adaptation Science Center (PI-CASC) is recruiting a Consortium Program Director who will lead and manage the university consortium host responsibilities, integrating scientific research, partnerships, and community engagement to address climate adaptation challenges in Hawai’i and the United States Affiliated Pacific Islands (USAPI). The Director will oversee the co-production and delivery of actionable science to support effective adaptation strategies for natural and cultural resource management.

Duties and Responsibilities:

Leadership and Management:

• Provide visionary leadership for the PI-CASC consortium, setting strategic priorities and goals in alignment with the USGS Regional Climate Adaptation Science Center (RCASC), the National Climate Adaptation Science Center (NCASC) and Department of the Interior (DOI) objectives.
• Oversee the administrative, financial, and operational functions of the consortium, ensuring compliance with federal, state, and university regulations.
• Lead and mentor a multidisciplinary team of researchers, extension and communications specialists, and administrative staff.

Research and Development:

• Foster collaborative research initiatives across the consortium partners.
• Facilitate the co-production of science with indigenous communities and local partners to ensure research addresses culturally relevant and region-specific climate adaptation needs.
• Secure funding through grants and contracts to support research, outreach, educational, and communications activities.

Partnerships and Collaboration:

• Build and maintain strong partnerships with federal, state, and local agencies, non-governmental organizations, and community groups.
• Represent the PI-CASC at national and international meetings, workshops, and conferences.
• Promote knowledge exchange and capacity building among consortium members, partners, and the broader scientific community.

Outreach and Extension:

• Develop and implement outreach programs that translate scientific research into practical tools and resources for resource managers and decision-makers.
• Engage with local communities, including Native Hawaiian and other indigenous groups, to integrate traditional knowledge and practices into climate adaptation strategies.
• Communicate research findings and adaptation strategies through publications, reports, and public presentations.

Education and Training:

• Support the development and delivery of educational programs, including workshops, seminars, and courses, to train the next generation of climate scientists and resource managers.
• Oversee the PI-CASC graduate trainee program, providing mentorship and guidance to graduate students engaged in climate adaptation research.

For more information, eligibility requirements, and how to apply, go to the job announcement.