Leadership Profiles: Detailed Interviews Revealing Key Figures in Power and Position
The Scripps Institution of Oceanography (SIO) at the University of California, San Diego (UCSD), is a hub of scientific discovery and innovation, with a diverse team of dedicated individuals driving its research and academic activities.
At the helm of SIO is Margaret Leinen, who serves as the Director, Vice Chancellor, and Dean for Marine Sciences. Leinen's leadership is supported by a team of key personnel, each playing a crucial role in different areas of the institution.
Stuart Sandin is the Section Head for Biology, focusing on the intricate workings of marine life. Shauna Oh, as the Director of California Sea Grant, manages initiatives that promote the wise use and conservation of ocean and coastal resources. James Leichter, as the Program Director for Ocean Biosciences (OBP), drives research in the field of ocean biosciences, while Keiaru Auzenne, as the Director of Diversity Initiatives, ensures that SIO remains an inclusive and welcoming environment for all.
Bruce Appelgate, the Associate Director for Ship Operations and Marine Technical Support (SOMTS), oversees the institution's marine operations, ensuring seamless and safe operations of its fleet. Kathleen Ritzman, the Associate Director for Marine Sciences, leads the Scripps Office of Government Relations, Research Development, Strategic Partnerships, and Events. Lauren Wood, as the Director of Strategic Communications, manages marketing and communications for the organization. Simone Bauman-Pickering, the Faculty Equity Advisor & Associate Dean, advocates for faculty equity and diversity.
Scripps divides its research and academic activities into three sections: Oceans & Atmosphere, Earth, and Biology. The leadership of these sections is shared by Julie McClean (Section Head for Oceans and Atmosphere), Yuri Fialko (SIO Department Vice Chair), and Kathy Barbeau (Program Director for Geosciences of Earth, Oceans, and Planets (GEO)).
Jonathan Slade and Adam Cooper, though not explicitly titled, are recognised as key figures in SIO's research and operational areas. Kimberly Prather, with a joint appointment at SIO and the Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry at UCSD, represents a research and academic leadership role spanning multiple disciplines within SIO.
The Office of External Relations at SIO provides research, analysis, and support services to the institution, supporting its outreach and relationship management efforts.
At the broader UC San Diego level, Pradeep Khosla acts as the administrative head, overseeing multiple vice chancellors, including one for marine sciences, who likely plays a significant role in SIO oversight.
In addition, David Hanses, the Executive Director of Development, manages the engagement of SIO's most capable and generous donors. Jack Gilbert, as the Deputy Director for Research and Associate Vice Chancellor for Marine Sciences, supports the institution's research efforts. Brian Palenik, as the Associate Dean of Marine Sciences, advises on all academic personnel matters. Patrick Callaghan, as the Assistant Vice Chancellor for Finance & Operations, oversees the financial and operational aspects of the institution. Eric Allen, as the SIO Department Chair and Deputy Director for Education, leads the department's educational initiatives.
Together, these individuals form a dynamic team, driving SIO's mission to seek, teach, and communicate scientific understanding of the ocean and the earth for the benefit of society and the planet.
Margaret Leinen, in her roles as Director, Vice Chancellor, and Dean for Marine Sciences at Scripps Institution of Oceanography (SIO), employs her leadership skills to oversee the finance and budgeting aspects of the business sector within SIO. In parallel, Kimberly Prather, holding a joint appointment at SIO and the Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry at UCSD, leverages her educational-and-self-development background to foster research and academic collaborations between different disciplines within SIO.
