VIMS Faculty and Staff Leadership Directory
The Virginia Institute of Marine Science (VIMS) is powered by a diverse team of academic leaders, research specialists, and administrative professionals. From overseeing coastal research to managing complex marine operations, the faculty and staff ensure the institution remains a leader in marine and estuarine science.
Key Facts
- Leadership: Led by Dean and Director Dr. Derek Aday.
- Academic Structure: Organized into specialized sections including Coastal & Ocean Processes, Natural Resources, and Ecosystem Health.
- Research Hubs: Operates multiple specialized centers, including the Aquaculture Genetics and Breeding Technology Center (ABC).
- Operational Support: Comprehensive administrative oversight covering finance, IT, and marine operations.
Administrative Leadership
The executive administration provides the strategic vision and operational framework necessary for high-level scientific research and academic excellence.
- Dr. Derek Aday: Dean and Director
- Dr. Mark Luckenbach: Associate Dean of Research and Advisory Services
- Dr. Siddhartha Mitra: Associate Dean of Academic Affairs
- Marise Robbins-Forbes: Executive Director of VIMS Advancement & VIMS Foundation
- Linda Rudy: Chief Financial Officer
- Joseph Martinez: Chief Operations Officer
Academic Sections and Research Centers
VIMS organizes its scientific endeavors into specialized sections and centers to focus on specific environmental challenges and biological systems.
Section Chairs
Section chairs oversee the thematic research areas of the institute:
- Dr. Courtney Harris: Chair, Section for Coastal & Ocean Processes
- Dr. Eric Hilton: Chair, Section for Natural Resources
- Dr. Bongkeun Song: Chair, Section for Ecosystem Health
Center Directors
Specialized centers provide targeted research and community outreach services:
- Dr. Jessica Small: Aquaculture Genetics and Breeding Technology Center (ABC)
- Dr. Kirk Havens: Center for Coastal Resources Management (CCRM)
- Dr. William Reay: Chesapeake Bay National Estuarine Research Reserve (CBNERR)
- Dr. Richard Snyder: Eastern Shore Laboratory
- Dr. David Rudders: Marine Advisory Services
- Dr. Troy Hartley: Virginia Sea Grant
Administrative Operations
The efficiency of VIMS is maintained by a dedicated team of administrative directors who manage the infrastructure, funding, and logistics of the institute.
| Director | Area of Responsibility |
|---|---|
| Gary Anderson | Chief Information Officer; IT & Network Services |
| Betty Barrack | Budget & Financial Planning |
| Mark Brabham | Facilities Management |
| Eric Fidler | Safety & Environmental Programs |
| Lisa Nickel | William J. Hargis Library (Interim Contact) |
| Susan Maples | Development |
| Connie Motley | Office of Sponsored Programs |
| Carol Tomlinson | Finance & Supply Chain Operations |
| Timothy Turner | Marine Operations |
For a complete list of all personnel, a full directory of faculty, staff, and students is available online.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is the current Dean and Director of VIMS?
The Dean and Director of VIMS is Dr. Derek Aday.
Which sections make up the academic structure of VIMS?
The academic structure includes the Section for Coastal & Ocean Processes, the Section for Natural Resources, and the Section for Ecosystem Health.
Who manages the Virginia Sea Grant?
The Virginia Sea Grant is led by Director Dr. Troy Hartley.
Who is responsible for Marine Operations at VIMS?
Timothy Turner serves as the Director of Marine Operations.
Where can I find a full list of VIMS students and staff?
A comprehensive directory of all faculty, staff, and students is available online.