Executive Director & Publisher

Description:

Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory Press (CSHLP), a division of the renowned Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory, is seeking a visionary and accomplished Executive Director & Publisher to lead its prestigious publishing program. This is a rare leadership opportunity for a forward-thinking publishing executive with a strong background in biomedical sciences and a passion for advancing scholarly communication.

About CSHL & CSHLP:
Established in 1988, CSHL Press publishes high-impact research and review journals, books, and digital content that serve both the scientific community and the general public. Its legacy dates back to 1934, and it has consistently driven innovation in STM publishing. The Press contributes significantly to the Laboratory's reputation and financial health, supporting groundbreaking research in genomics, cancer, neuroscience, and plant biology.

Key Achievements of CSHL Press include:

• Leading journals like Genes & Development and Genome Research

• Transformative partnerships (e.g., with RNA Society, EMBO Press, Rockefeller University Press)

• The launch of open-access journals and preprint servers like bioRxiv and medRxiv

• Development of successful online subscription-based protocols and review journals

Key Responsibilities:

• Strategic Leadership: Define and execute future publishing strategies to enhance scientific impact and financial contributions

• Portfolio Oversight: Ensure excellence in publishing journals, books, and digital content

• Team Management: Inspire and manage a high-performing team across editorial, production, marketing, and finance

• Partnership Development: Strengthen relationships with authors, editors, institutions, and societies

• Financial Leadership: Oversee budget planning and revenue growth

• Product Innovation: Lead product innovation and adopt emerging publishing technologies

• Content Commissioning: Curate journal content and acquire new books in biology and medicine

• Representation: Present to CSHL leadership and the wider publishing community; collaborate across divisions

Qualifications:

• Ph.D. in a biological science field

• Strong track record in STM publishing leadership

• Experience in editorial direction, strategic planning, and business model innovation

• Deep understanding of the biomedical research ecosystem and evolving publishing models

• Familiarity with trends such as open access, funder mandates, and generative AI

• Proven ability to drive innovation and lead cross-functional teams

• Strategic thinking with excellent communication and relationship-building skills

Reporting Structure:
Reports directly to the President and CEO of Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory and collaborates with the COO, CFO, CIO, CHRO, and others within the institution.

About the Organization:
Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory is a globally respected biomedical research and educational institution founded in 1890, known for major advances in genetics and molecular biology. The Press is one of five core divisions dedicated to education and scientific communication. With over 1,000 staff, including 600 researchers and 250 in education/communication, CSHL is considered one of Long Island’s top workplaces.