Climate & Sustainability
UCSC alumnus named director of the Smithsonian Environmental Research Center
William “Monty” Graham (M.S. ’89, marine sciences; Ph.D. ’94, biology) will lead the nation’s premier coastal ecosystem research facility and its mission to understand the vital connections between land and water.
William "Monty" Graham (M.S. ’89, marine sciences; Ph.D. ’94, biology)
Alumnus William “Monty” Graham (M.S. ’89, marine sciences; Ph.D. ’94, biology) has been appointed director of the prestigious Smithsonian Environmental Research Center (SERC). The appointment marks another milestone for the distinguished oceanographer, whose groundbreaking research on jellyfish in coastal ecosystems has earned him international recognition. He joins SERC in June.
SERC studies natural processes and land-sea connections in coastal ecosystems critical to over 70 percent of the world’s population. Graham’s extensive experience in ocean and coastal sciences, research administration, and strategic leadership will be instrumental in advancing SERC’s mission to understand and enhance the environment through innovative science and collaborative partnerships.
“We’re delighted to see Monty Graham take on this prestigious role at SERC,” says Bryan Gaensler, Dean of the Science Division. “His appointment reflects the strength of our marine sciences program at UC Santa Cruz, where students work directly with world-class faculty and gain hands-on experience in coastal ecosystems. Monty’s career trajectory—from studying jellyfish ecology to leading major research institutions—demonstrates how our interdisciplinary approach prepares scientists to address complex environmental challenges. We’re proud that UCSC continues to produce leaders who shape the future of ocean and environmental research.”
“I am honored to join SERC and look forward to working with the talented team to deepen our understanding of environmental systems, especially as they relate to the human enterprise,” Graham said in a statement. “Together, we can increase the Smithsonian’s global leadership in environmental science and foster a greater appreciation for the natural world.”
Graham, who completed his graduate studies at UC Santa Cruz after earning his bachelor’s degree from the University of North Carolina Wilmington, brings nearly three decades of dedicated service and experience in marine and estuarine research, education, and executive leadership from his work at prominent institutions. Most recently, Graham was the director of the Florida Institute of Oceanography, a state-wide consortium of 32 members, including universities and colleges, state agencies, industry, non-profits, and the Fort Pierce Marine Station of the Smithsonian’s National Museum of Natural History. He has also worked at the Dauphin Island Sea Lab and the University of Southern Mississippi.
Graham’s work has significantly contributed to advancing ocean science, developing capacity at marine laboratories, and fostering collaborations across local, state, and federal agencies. His scientific expertise covers coastal ecological oceanography with a focus on the role of large gelatinous plankton, or jellyfish, in productive coastal ecosystems. In 2022, he had a new species of jellyfish, Aurelia montyi, named after him in recognition of his groundbreaking research. To date, he has published over 90 scientific articles.
UC Santa Cruz continues to demonstrate leadership in marine science education and environmental research, proudly counting Graham among our distinguished alumni who are shaping global solutions to critical coastal and ocean challenges.