PAPUA NEW GUINEA UNIVERSITY OF NATURAL RESOURCES AND ENVIRONMENT

Preamble

On 19 March 2026, the Interim Council of the Papua New Guinea University of Natural Resources and Environment (PNG UNRE) approved the recruitment of a Dean for Position No.: UNRE – GB 001, Designation: Dean for the School of Sustainable Resources Management and Business Studies.

The incumbent for the position is required by the Council to lead the establishment of the Momis Ocean and Climate Research Institute and a Momis Fellowship for the Institute as approved by the Council on 28 November 2025.

About the University

PNG UNRE is a specialised national university mandated to advance education, research, innovation, and community engagement in sustainable agriculture, natural resource management, environmental stewardship, and applied development disciplines.

PNG UNRE operates across three campuses:

• Vudal Main Campus (East New Britain Province) – home to core teaching and research programs
• Takubar Campus (Kokopo) – host of Postgraduate Programs and the Department of Business & Economics
• Popondetta Campus (Oro Province) – focused on agricultural training and community development initiatives

The University emphasises practice-oriented teaching, field-based learning, and strong industry collaboration, producing graduates who are work-ready and capable of contributing meaningfully to sustainable development outcomes across Papua New Guinea and the Pacific region.

About the Role

PNGUNRE invites applications from distinguished and highly motivated academics for appointment as Dean / Fellow – Momis Ocean & Climate Research Institute (MOCRI).

This is a flagship, internationally significant leadership role responsible for establishing and advancing the Momis Ocean & Climate Research Institute as a centre of excellence in climate science, ocean research, disaster risk reduction, and environmental sustainability in the Pacific.

Based at the Vudal Campus with operational engagement in Rabaul and key field sites, the Institute will focus on cutting-edge research in ocean systems, climate change, environmental monitoring, and early warning systems. The successful appointee will lead multidisciplinary research programs, develop postgraduate training, and build global partnerships aligned with Papua New Guinea’s national priorities and international climate commitments.

The role reports directly to the Vice Chancellor and is central to PNG UNRE’s strategic ambition to strengthen its global research profile and leadership in climate resilience and sustainability.

Key Responsibilities

• Provide strategic leadership in the establishment and growth of the Momis Ocean & Climate Research Institute.
• Lead high-impact, multidisciplinary research programs in climate science, oceanography, environmental systems, and disaster risk reduction.
• Develop and oversee environmental monitoring systems and early warning mechanisms for climate-related hazards.
• Establish and grow postgraduate (Masters and PhD) research programs in climate and ocean sciences.
• Secure competitive research funding and build international research collaborations.
• Publish in high-impact academic journals and contribute to global scientific discourse.
• Build strong partnerships with government agencies, international institutions, and development partners.
• Lead community-based research and outreach initiatives supporting climate resilience and sustainable livelihoods.
• Integrate traditional knowledge systems with modern scientific approaches in addressing environmental challenges.
• Provide high-level advisory input to the University and national stakeholders on climate and environmental policy.
• Oversee Institute governance, staffing, budgeting, and operational frameworks.

Qualifications, Knowledge, Skills & Experience

• PhD in Climate Science, Oceanography, Environmental Science, Engineering, Geophysics, or a closely related discipline.
• Minimum of 15–20 years’ experience in academic, research, or scientific leadership roles.
• Demonstrated success in leading large-scale research programs or institutes.
• Strong publications record with a high citation level and proven ability to secure research funding.
• Expertise in areas such as climate systems, ocean science, environmental monitoring, or disaster risk management.
• Experience working in developing country contexts or the Pacific region is highly desirable.
• Proven ability to build and sustain international collaborations and partnerships.
• Strong leadership, strategic planning, and organisational capabilities.
• Excellent communication, stakeholder engagement, and policy advisory skills.
• Commitment to sustainability, climate resilience, and community impact.

Salary Range

Professor Base Salary: PGK81,707.00 – PGK99,864.00

International Market Allowance: PGK76, 146.00 – PGK113, 092
(plus applicable allowances, housing, research support, and benefits)

Why Join PNGUNRE?

This is a rare opportunity to lead a transformative research institute positioned at the forefront of global climate science in one of the world’s most environmentally significant regions.

Papua New Guinea is home to some of the planet’s largest remaining rainforests and ocean ecosystems, making it a critical frontier for climate research, biodiversity conservation, and sustainability innovation.

The Momis Ocean & Climate Research Institute offers:

• A unique platform to shape global climate research agendas
• Opportunities to influence national and international policy
• Access to rich, under-researched environmental systems
• Strong institutional support for research, innovation, and collaboration
• The chance to integrate indigenous knowledge systems with modern science

Application Details

Interested applicants should submit:

• A cover letter addressing suitability for the role and leadership experience
• A detailed Curriculum Vitae, including publications and research funding record
• Certified copies of academic qualifications
• Names and contact details of three (3) referees

Applications must be addressed to:

The Manager – Human Resources
PNG University of Natural Resources and Environment
Vudal Campus, East New Britain Province
Email: [email protected]

Closing Date: 03 April 2026

PNG UNRE is an equal opportunity employer and encourages applications from suitably qualified national and international candidates.