Executive Director

The Moore Institute for Plastic Pollution Research (MIPPR) is an independent nonprofit research organization rooted in Southern California, where the San Gabriel and Los Angeles Rivers meet the sea. Our mission is to deepen the world’s understanding of plastic pollution and drive solutions that protect our ocean and communities.

Home to one of the few laboratories in the world accredited for microplastics analysis, MIPPR uses state-of-the-art spectroscopy and microscopy to generate trusted, high-quality data. We partner with universities, agencies, and community groups to process samples, develop new methods, and train students and researchers building capacity for science-based change.

Our work builds on the pioneering spirit of our founders, who first documented plastic pollution in the North Pacific Garbage Patch. Today, we lead and contribute to statewide and international efforts to monitor, manage, and ultimately reduce plastic pollution. Through research, mentorship, and public engagement, we are inspiring a new generation of scientists and empowering communities to shape a more sustainable future.

Moore Institute for Plastic Pollution Research is seeking a visionary and compassionate leader to serve as Executive Director of our Microplastics Laboratory in Long Beach, CA. This is a unique opportunity to shape the future of a state-accredited laboratory at the forefront of microplastics research.

We’re a lean nonprofit with limited traditional benefits, but we offer a competitive salary ($80,000), paid vacation and sick leave, and the chance to lead groundbreaking work that directly influences science, policy, and community impact. For the right candidate, this is more than a job. It’s an opportunity to leave a legacy in one of today’s most urgent environmental challenges.

Fundraising & Resource Development

• Serve as the primary fundraiser for the Institute, building relationships with foundations, agencies, and private donors.
• Secure contracts and grants that sustain the lab’s core operations and growth.
• Partner with the Board and staff to identify new revenue opportunities and steward existing funders.

Inspire and Lead

• Set vision and strategy that ensures high-quality science while strengthening collaboration and accessibility across the research community.
• Communicate progress and strategy clearly to the Board, funders, and partners.

Support People

• Build and mentor a talented, diverse team of scientists and staff, evolving the structure as needed to foster a culture of collaboration and accountability
• Provide leadership in HR, hiring, and team development.

Advance Science

• Work in close partnership with the Research Director to ensure the lab produces high-quality, policy-relevant research.
• Support research collaborations, publications, and partnerships while ensuring operational sustainability.
• Oversee the maintenance and accreditation of the Microplastics Laboratory and data facility, ensuring compliance with state standards.

Strengthen Operations

• Oversee budgets, contracts, and compliance while creating systems that let staff focus on their best work.
• Manage financial planning to ensure the Institute’s long-term stability.
• Ensure timely follow-up on contracts and funding agreements, managing receivables to keep cash flow steady and predictable.

Be Our Voice

• Represent the lab at conferences, community events, and in the media.
• Share discoveries with policymakers, partners, and communities in accessible, compelling ways.

What We’re Looking For:

• Proven success in fundraising and nonprofit leadership.
• Experience managing staff, fostering accountability, and building strong teams.
• Familiarity with environmental science, ideally related to water quality or plastic pollution.
• Strong communication skills to engage with funders, policymakers, researchers, and the public.
• Ability to balance vision with day-to-day operational needs.
• Demonstrated strength in financial management, including contract follow-up and cash flow oversight.
• Commitment to environmental sustainability and to people.

Why This Matters

Plastic pollution is one of the defining environmental challenges of our time. Microplastics are now found everywhere, from the deepest oceans to the water we drink. By joining our team, you will be at the forefront of research that is not only shaping scientific understanding but also giving communities the knowledge they need to protect health and ecosystems.

While we can’t offer all the perks of a large organization, we can offer something rarer: the chance to lead a nationally recognized laboratory, work alongside passionate and creative colleagues, and make a measurable impact on one of the planet’s greatest challenges.