Morgan Maly

Conservation geneticist turned project leader with 10+ years managing research and stakeholder-driven programs in biodiversity and ecosystem health. Experienced in coordinating multi-partner collaborations, securing funding, and translating complex science into actionable conservation outcomes. Excited to apply these skills to project management roles that drive impact at scale.

I am a PhD-trained conservation geneticist and molecular ecologist with over a decade of experience leading research and applied conservation programs. My work has ranged from developing eDNA-based tools for monitoring stream health to advancing wildlife genetics for species management, always with a focus on connecting rigorous science to real-world decision-making.

Throughout my career, I have managed multi-institutional collaborations, coordinated across government agencies, nonprofits, and academic partners, and overseen projects from design through implementation and reporting. I have secured competitive funding, led research teams, and translated complex datasets into actionable outcomes for conservation and land management.

I am now eager to leverage this blend of scientific expertise, program coordination, and stakeholder engagement in project management roles that deliver measurable conservation impact.

PhD in Genetics – North Carolina State University / Smithsonian Conservation Biology Institute

Dissertation research focused on wildlife genetics and microbial ecology, with applied projects in biodiversity monitoring and species management.

Developed and led multi-institutional collaborations (including international), integrating research, stakeholder engagement, and data management.

MS in Animal Science (Biotechnology minor) – North Carolina State University / Smithsonian Conservation Biology Institute

Thesis on reproductive health in wildlife, combining molecular and applied conservation research.

Gained early experience in project coordination, lab management, and stakeholder communication including international work in Kenya and China.