UGA Marine Extension and Georgia Sea Grant has selected Brooke Carney as its new associate director of research. In this role, Carney will provide strategic leadership and coordination for the program’s research portfolio. She will oversee competitive research funding, support collaboration among researchers and partners, and help ensure research investments advance science-based solutions for Georgia’s coastal communities.
Originally from Atlanta, Carney developed a passion for the coast while earning her biology degree at Georgia Southern University. She earned a master’s degree in biology from the University of Alaska Anchorage and a master’s degree in public administration from Georgia Southern University.
Throughout her career, Carney has focused on connecting people to science and nature through place-based organizations at the local, state and national levels. She brings extensive experience in research administration, community engagement and program leadership.
Carney most recently served as Marine Extension and Georgia Sea Grant’s community and government affairs specialist and as interim associate director of research. In those roles, she increased awareness of the program among community partners, government agencies and research collaborators while gaining a deeper understanding of the opportunities and challenges facing Georgia’s coast.
“I’m honored to continue working with Marine Extension and Georgia Sea Grant in this new capacity,” said Carney. “I look forward to building partnerships with researchers, marine extension professionals, and coastal communities to co-develop research that is responsive to local needs and challenges.”
Prior to joining the team, Carney served as deputy director of Alaska Sea Grant, where she supported research, extension and communications programs and led strategic planning efforts. She also held several positions with the National Sea Grant Office, including acting associate director for engagement, chief of staff and communications lead. Earlier in her career, she worked with the Rookery Bay National Estuarine Research Reserve in Florida and a Keep America Beautiful affiliate.
“Brooke’s commitment to connecting research with community needs makes her an excellent fit for this role,” said Mark Risse, director of Marine Extension and Georgia Sea Grant. “I look forward to seeing her grow our research program through partnerships that strengthen the relevance and impact of the research we support.”
