VENUS, FL — Archbold Biological Station (Archbold) is proud to announce that Dr. Jennifer Owen has officially accepted the position of Executive Director and CEO, succeeding Dr. Hilary Swain, who has led the organization since 1995. Dr. Owen will begin her full-time leadership role in early November. Archbold will continue under the leadership of Dr. Swain and Chief Operations Officer Bonnie Pelaez until then.

Dr. Owen brings over two decades of experience in ecological research and academic leadership, most recently serving as Associate Professor in the Department of Fisheries and Wildlife at Michigan State University. Her work has focused on bird migration and avian disease ecology, and in recent years, she has expanded her research to encompass ecosystem-level processes through her founding and development of the Corey Marsh Ecological Research Center.

Dr. Owen expressed deep admiration for Archbold’s legacy and mission. “What drew me to Archbold was its extraordinary legacy, the range of its programs, and the people who make it all happen—across science, land conservation, education, operations, and governance,” she said.

Her leadership at Corey Marsh has exemplified a holistic approach to ecological research, integrating studies from soil and water processes to diverse biotic communities including invertebrates, mammals, herpetofauna, and birds. This experience has shaped her vision for collaborative and interdisciplinary stewardship of natural environments.

“Jen Owen considers the directorship of Archbold to be her ‘dream job,’ and we are privileged indeed to welcome her into this role,” said Dr. John Fitzpatrick, Chairperson of Archbold’s Board of Directors.

Archbold looks forward to a new chapter under Dr. Owen’s leadership, continuing its commitment to scientific excellence, conservation, and education.

As Dr. Owen settles into her new role at Archbold, a series of events will be scheduled to introduce the incoming Executive Director to Archbold’s stakeholders, community members, and partners.

To learn more about Dr. Owen, please visit https://www.archbold-station.org/people/jowen/.

Archbold is a world-class natural laboratory located on over 20,000 acres in the Headwaters of the Everglades. Archbold’s mission is to build and share the scientific knowledge needed to protect the life, lands, and waters of Florida and beyond. With seven ecological research programs, Archbold science is deeply trusted and critical for conservation of species and natural systems in Florida. Archbold is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization founded in 1941, dedicated to science, conservation, and education.