The University of Plymouth is seeking an outstanding academic leader to become the next Director of the Marine Institute - home to one of Europe’s largest marine and maritime research communities and internationally recognised for world‑leading, transdisciplinary marine research. The Marine Institute drives innovation across themes such as Net Zero, Healthy Oceans, Safe Seas, Sustainable Blue Economy, and the cross‑cutting Digital Ocean, contributing to the sustainable use and stewardship of our marine environments.

About the role

The Institute brings together expertise from across the University - spanning science, engineering, health, arts, business, and social sciences - and forms part of a global cluster of world‑leading marine science capabilities.

With more than 100 years of marine research heritage, Plymouth is a key part of the world’s largest cluster of marine science expertise - offering unique facilities, partnerships and opportunities to create impact at scale.

• Lead the development and delivery of the Marine Institute’s research and enterprise strategy.
• Foster a vibrant, interdisciplinary research culture and support the development of academic teams.
• Strengthen the Institute’s national and international profile through partnerships, collaboration and external engagement.
• Support income generation, oversee progress against KPIs, and chair the Marine Institute Steering Group.
• Ensure alignment with broader University strategic priorities and research governance.

This role offers an exceptional opportunity to lead one of the world’s most established marine research hubs and shape global thinking on ocean sustainability.

While the role is presently situated within the School of Biological and Marine Sciences, its long-term disciplinary alignment will depend on the expertise of the successful candidate. The position involves a 50% secondment from a professorial role, together with a substantial appointment as Professor of an appropriate discipline within any aligned School of the University for external candidates.

For more information on the School of Biological and Marine Sciences please visit our dedicated webpage at https://www.plymouth.ac.uk/schools

Although we can accommodate hybrid working, flexibility to be on-site will be expected depending on business needs.

For an informal discussion to find out more about the role then please contact Kevin Jones : by email at kevin.jones@plymouth.ac.uk

We are seeking a leader who is:

• Appointable at Professorial level, with a doctorate in a relevant discipline.
• Internationally recognised for research leadership and academic excellence.
• Experienced in securing and managing external research income.
• Skilled in leading interdisciplinary research and large‑scale collaborative programmes.
• An effective and inspiring leader of people, with a strong record in staff development and managing change.
• A confident communicator able to represent the Institute on the national and global stage.

For more information about the job and the person specification, please refer to the job description.

The successful candidate may be required to obtain an ATAS Certificate prior to this research being undertaken.

Application Process

Please apply online, demonstrating how you meet the essential criteria outlined in the knowledge, qualifications, training, skills and experience elements of the job description in your supporting statement.

Closing date:  12 midnight, Monday 25 May 2026