James Robert Kellner is a professor of ecology, evolution and organismal biology, professor of environment and society, and Associate Provost for Corporate Engagement at Brown University. He has taught more than 2,500 Brown undergraduates and received University honors for excellence in teaching, advising and mentoring in the life sciences. His leadership has included institution-wide initiatives defining core institutional values and the use of University voice alongside academic and curricular activities. He is a research scientist in the area of remote sensing, and is a member of the science team of an active NASA mission.