William Cheung’s term as Director of the Institute for the Oceans and Fisheries will conclude on June 30, 2026. A search committee has been formed to conduct an internal UBC search for the next Director of the Institute. The position is open to all qualified candidates holding a tenured professorial rank, with strong preference being given to a faculty member at the rank of Professor. The advertisement (copied below) is attached. Throughout the process, the search committee will be seeking input from all Institute constituents.
I am requesting applications for the position of Director. Applications should include a cover letter (briefly describing your motivation for the role, vision statement, and leadership style), current curriculum vitae (including publication record) and the names and email addresses of two references. The application deadline is Friday, March 27, 2026.
DIRECTOR, INSTITUTE FOR THE OCEANS & FISHERIES
UBC Internal Search
The Faculty of Science at the University of British Columbia is seeking applications for the position of Director of the Institute for the Oceans and Fisheries (IOF). We seek an experienced UBC faculty member with an established international reputation to lead and advance the IOF’s mission to promote healthy and sustainable marine and freshwater ecosystems through excellent research, inspirational education, and innovative societal engagement. Further information about the unit can be found at http://oceans.ubc.ca/.
We seek a dynamic individual with a compelling vision for the future of the IOF at UBC, an internationally recognized research profile, a record of excellent teaching and commitment to educational programs at the graduate level, and demonstrated leadership abilities. The successful candidate will be responsible for leadership in the overall academic endeavors, administration and human relations of the IOF, will lead the implementation of strategic priorities for the IOF and will be a strong advocate for the IOF within the University and in the national and international arenas.
The position is for a five-year term and will be available beginning July 1, 2026. The successful candidate must hold a tenured professorial position at the University of British Columbia, with strong preference being given to a faculty member currently at the rank of Professor. Candidates from outside the IOF are welcome to apply, but are expected to become an active member of the IOF.
The University of British Columbia hires on the basis of merit and is committed to employment equity. All qualified persons are encouraged to apply; however, Canadians and permanent residents will be given priority. We especially welcome applications from members of visible minority groups, women, Indigenous persons, persons with disabilities, persons of minority sexual orientations and gender identities, and others with the skills and knowledge to engage productively with diverse communities.
The deadline for applications is March 27, 2026. Applications, consisting of a cover letter (briefly describing your motivation for the role, vision statement, and leadership style), curriculum vitae (including publication record) and the names and e-mail addresses of two references, should be sent to:
Dr. Mark MacLachlan
Dean, Faculty of Science
University of British Columbia
E-mail: searches@science.ubc.ca