Revised position description: Director, Oklahoma Geological Survey

DIRECTOR

OKLAHOMA GEOLOGICAL SURVEY

UNIVERSITY OF OKLAHOMA

The Oklahoma Geological Survey (OGS) seeks applications for an exceptional, dynamic and visionary leader to serve as the 8^th Director in its 106-year history.  Located on the University of Oklahoma campus in Norman, Oklahoma, the OGS is a key public research and service organization, and the only state geological survey in the nation chartered in a state constitution.   The OGS mission focuses on investigating and disseminating information regarding land, water, mineral and energy resources, and promoting sound environmental practices.

Organizationally, the OGS is located within the Mewbourne College of Earth and Energy, and the OGS Director reports to the College Dean.  Also located in the College are the ConocoPhillips School of Geology and Geophysics, and the Mewbourne School of Petroleum and Geological Engineering.  The ConocoPhillips School of Geology and Geophysics, founded by Charles Gould in 1900, is home to the first school of Petroleum Geology, with the first degree granted in 1904.   Charles Gould subsequently became the first Director of the OGS.  The Mewbourne School of Petroleum and Geological Engineering is home to the first school of Petroleum Engineering, with the first petroleum engineering degree being granted in 1927.

Candidates should hold a doctorate or have the equivalent experience in geology, geophysics or a closely related field.  Prior experience with a public agency, such as the OGS, would be beneficial.  If appropriate, the successful candidate may hold a dual appointment as a faculty member within the College.  Salary will be commensurate with qualifications and experience.

The Director of the OGS has the responsibility of overseeing activities related to geological and geophysical studies of Oklahoma and adjacent areas, preparation of reports documenting the findings of these studies, communication of these results to individuals and agencies, and engaging the general public as appropriate and/or required.

The position requires supervision and administration of an organization of approximately 40 staff and associated facilities including offices, labs and the Oklahoma Petroleum Information Center (OPIC), which contains an extensive collection of rock cores and samples, other well information and selected facilities for the examination of these cores and samples.  It is anticipated that the Director of the OGS will work with Oklahoma universities, state and federal agencies, industry and other entities to conduct research in areas of public interest, as well as provide advice and service in the areas of geology, geophysics and natural resources.  The ability to assist OGS personnel in developing programs and proposals to acquire research funding in support of OGS activities will also be a consideration.

The OGS is one of five State Surveys at the University of Oklahoma; the others are the Oklahoma Climatological Survey, Oklahoma Water Survey, Oklahoma Archeological Survey and Oklahoma Biological Survey.  Specific activities of the OGS include the following:

(a)    A study of the geological formations of the state with special reference to its natural resources, including coal, oil, gas, asphalt, gypsum, salt, cement, stone, clay, lead, zinc, iron, sand, road building material, water resources and all other mineral resources.

(b)   Management of the Oklahoma seismic recording network, and the reporting and analysis of earthquake activity in the state; an area of current high interest given the recent, significant increase in Oklahoma earthquake activity.

(c)    The preparation and publication of bulletins and reports, accompanied with necessary illustrations and maps, including both general and detailed descriptions of the geological structure and mineral resources of the state.

(d)   The consideration of such other related scientific and economic questions that shall be deemed of value to the people of Oklahoma.

The successful candidate will have the demonstrated experience and ability to oversee these activities, while embracing the public service mission of the OGS and acting as the State Geologist of Oklahoma.  Areas of experience that could be considered include an appropriate background with state or national surveys, administration in academia, experience in industry or research, or other related areas. 

 

Review of candidates will begin October 15^th, 2014 and continue until the position is filled.  The anticipated starting date is as soon as practical in early 2015.  Applicants are requested to submit a complete resume, statement of relevant experience and a list of five references who can be contacted, including names, phone numbers, e-mail addresses and complete mailing addresses.  Questions or requests for additional information may be addressed to Larry R. Grillot, Dean of the Mewbourne College of Earth & Energy, and Chair of the OGS Director Search Committee, at (405) 325-3821, or lrgrillot@ou.edu.  Applications and nominations should be addressed to OGS Director Search Committee, University of Oklahoma, Sarkeys Energy Center, 100 East Boyd Street, Room 1510, Norman, OK 73019-1008.

The University of Oklahoma is an Affirmative Action, Equal Opportunity Employer.  Women, minorities, protected veterans and individuals with disabilities are encouraged to apply.