Chief Research Officer & Global Desert Science Leader

AZ MetroScapes, Inc.; Phoenix (AZ); On-site; USD 151,000 - 185,000; Full time

Job summary

Desert Botanical Garden in Phoenix seeks a visionary Vice President & Chief Research Officer to set strategic direction for a multidisciplinary team of 20+ professionals. You will position the Garden as a global leader in desert research, addressing climate adaptation, biodiversity, urban heat, water resilience, and threatened species.

As a senior leader, you will translate science into policy and public understanding, secure external funding, mentor researchers, and collaborate with education

Qualifications

• Ph.D. in Biology, Ecology, Environmental or Conservation Science, Botany, Horticulture or related field; arid land focus preferred.
• Minimum ten years’ experience managing scientists and staff.
• Proven leadership of research programs with real-world impact.
• Ability to build partnerships across academic, public, private sectors.
• Strong track record of securing competitive research funding.
• Strategic thinker who connects science to policy, practice and education.
• Exceptional written and verbal communication, translating science for diverse audiences.
• Collaborative leadership with emotional intelligence and cross-disciplinary credibility.
• Experience with cultural, educational, or mission-driven institutions preferred.
• Grant writing, research design, and peer-reviewed publication proficiency.
• Knowledge of conservation policy, permitting requirements.
• Field experience working outdoors across varied terrain.

Responsibilities

• Set and lead the Garden’s research strategy with rigor and measurable real-world impact.
• Oversee all research and collections programs from concept to dissemination.
• Position the Garden as a leading desert research center through partnerships with universities, public agencies, and peer institutions.
• Identify, cultivate, and steward collaborative research opportunities.
• Lead strategy for securing external research funding with Development.
• Ensure compliance and stewardship for funded projects.
• Translate research into accessible insights informing policy and education.
• Collaborate with Education and Engagement to integrate research into programs.
• Supervise and mentor research staff and affiliated scientists.
• Establish goals and evaluation frameworks for research outcomes.
• Contribute to senior leadership and long-term institutional strategy.

Skills

Strategic leadership

Grant writing

Partnership development

Science communication

Team management

Cross-disciplinary collaboration

Emotional intelligence

Public policy knowledge

Project management

Education

Ph.D. in Biology or related field

Job description

Desert Botanical Garden in Phoenix seeks a visionary Vice President & Chief Research Officer to set strategic direction for a multidisciplinary team of 20+ professionals. You will position the Garden as a global leader in desert research, addressing climate adaptation, biodiversity, urban heat, water resilience, and threatened species.

As a senior leader, you will translate science into policy and public understanding, secure external funding, mentor researchers, and collaborate with education