Kate Moran’s term as President and CEO of Ocean Networks Canada (ONC) concludes on June 30, 2026. Jay Cullen, Director of the University of Victoria’s School of Earth and Ocean Sciences (SEOS), will serve as Interim President and CEO effective July 1, 2026.

With immense gratitude, Ocean Networks Canada wishes to thank Kate for her leadership and outstanding contributions over the past 14 years. Under her direction, ONC has developed into a Major Research Facility of Canada, and a globally recognized research organization. Kate will continue to lead the Solid Carbon initiative, which is advancing approaches for safe, long-term carbon storage in subsea basalt formations as part of global climate solutions. Dr. Moran will transfer into her new role as Professor in the School of Earth and Ocean Sciences at the University of Victoria.

There are no changes to ONC’s operations or priorities. Employees remain central to ONC’s work. Jay Cullen will maintain current operations and support ongoing activities while the search for a new President and CEO is underway.

Dr. Cullen brings expertise in ocean science and a strong record of academic leadership. As Director of SEOS, he led one of Canada’s leading ocean and Earth science units and has built major multi-partner research collaborations across universities and government agencies.