Julia Wellner, professor of glacial and marine geology in the Department of Earth and Atmospheric Sciences, has been named Associate Dean for Faculty Affairs in the 91ĆĆ˝â°ć College of Natural Sciences and Mathematics.
Wellner begins her new role on August 12. Prior to this appointment as Associate Dean, Wellner served as Associate Chair of the Department of Earth and Atmospheric Sciences from 2019 until 2025, leading initiatives in faculty development and departmental governance.
“I am excited to join the college’s leadership team and appreciate the opportunity to join Dean Dudley and the other associate deans,” Wellner said. “I look forward to getting to know faculty across all six departments and working with them to support faculty development.”
Wellner joined the faculty in 2006 and was promoted to full professor in 2024. Her research centers on understanding the history of the Antarctic Ice Sheet and the processes driving ice sheet retreat, including work on the Thwaites and Pine Island glaciers. She has participated in numerous field campaigns and international collaborations, including leadership roles in the Thwaites Glacier Initiative and the Scientific Committee on Antarctic Research.
Her experience managing large research teams and mentoring early-career scientists positions her well for her new leadership role. As Associate Dean for Faculty Affairs, Wellner will oversee faculty hiring and promotion processes, professional development programming, and initiatives to support faculty retention and recognition across NSM’s six departments.
“Professor Wellner brings both the experience and vision to enhance how we support faculty at every stage of their careers,” said Gregory B. Dudley, dean of the College of Natural Sciences and Mathematics. “Her leadership will help shape the future of the college and advance our shared goals for NSM. We are thrilled to welcome her to the leadership team.”
Wellner holds a Ph.D. in geology and geophysics from Rice University, an M.S. in geology from the University of Alabama, and an A.B. in geology from Bryn Mawr College.
In addition to her administrative duties, Wellner will continue to teach and mentor students in the Department of Earth and Atmospheric Sciences. She remains committed to advancing inclusion and accessibility in STEM, a commitment she brings to her work both in the field and at the college level.