College Environment

Friday Harbor, WA

Oct 22, 2026

The College of the Environment at the University of Washington (UW) invites applications for Director of Friday Harbor Laboratories (FHL), at the rank of Associate Professor or Professor, without tenure by reason of designated funding, with an anticipated start date of the 2027-28 academic year. We seek applicants who demonstrate commitment to excellence in leadership, research, teaching, and service in a diverse and inclusive academic community.

The successful candidate will join our faculty on a full-time basis for a twelve-month appointment. The directorship associated with this position is a 5-year term, renewable upon review and with satisfactory performance. Without Tenure faculty members are continuing appointments that have the same rights, responsibilities, and obligations as tenure-track and tenured faculty members at those ranks.

University of Washington faculty are encouraged to apply. Current UW faculty with a professorial track other than without tenure and are otherwise qualified will not be required to change tracks as part of the appointment terms for this directorship. Track changes will be considered on a case-by-case basis for current UW faculty.

The base salary range for this position will be $14,000.00-$22,800.00 per month, commensurate with experience and qualifications, or as mandated by a U.S. Department of Labor prevailing wage determination. Other compensation associated with this position may include an administrative supplement in recognition of directorship responsibilities, a moving allowance, a relocation incentive, and on-site housing.

Significant funding for this position is provided through the Dennis Willows Director’s Endowed Professorship. A total of 11 months of salary support will be provided during the directorship for:

• A 12-month, 50% FTE administrative appointment as Director, covering the Director’s year-round leadership and management responsibilities for FHL; and
• The equivalent of a 50% FTE appointment for 9 months (the academic year), dedicated to teaching, research, and service activities consistent with the University of Washington Faculty Code, and relevant to the candidate’s disciplinary expertise.
• One half month of summer salary.
• Additional summer salary may be obtained through grant writing or other approved funding sources to support the position in academic and/or leadership activities.

The successful candidate will be expected to lead an innovative program of exceptional scientific and education quality and societal impact. The Director is expected to:

Leadership and Oversight

• Advance and champion the core FHL activities: research, education, outreach, and communications.
• Strategically support and expand a vibrant faculty program, including members of multiple academic units on the main campus and branch campuses engaged in extramurally-funded research and teaching and mentoring at undergraduate, graduate and postdoctoral levels.
• Sustain and expand innovative undergraduate and graduate education at FHL, including interdisciplinary, experiential, and place-based learning opportunities that engage students from across the University and commensurate with College and University goals.
• Lead strategic planning and visioning for FHL’s programmatic activities in line with College and University plans and priorities.
• Manage FHL’s resources efficiently and effectively, in accordance with UW requirements and best practices.
• Oversee operations, safety, and maintenance of FHL’s facilities, research vessels, and diving/boating programs.
• Incorporate and value inclusive excellence in the workplace and among the…