Lauren Koellermeier
Associate Director
Geophysical Fluid Dynamics Laboratory
In her role as Associate Director at GFDL, Lauren leads the development and implementation of science and administrative policies and is deeply involved in internal communications and diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility initiatives. She oversees internal and external reporting, as well as planning and executing budget initiatives. Lauren provides strategic advice to the GFDL Director and Deputy Director, drawing on her diverse experience from various roles within NOAA, including positions in Seattle and at agency headquarters in Silver Spring, Maryland.
Lauren has been with NOAA since 2006 and has gained extensive experience and knowledge in weather, climate, and ocean research, along with strategic planning, policy development, and organizational management. Lauren’s professional journey began at NOAA’s Pacific Marine Environmental Laboratory in Seattle, where she coordinated outreach programs and communicated scientific findings to the public. She then advanced to NOAA’s Office of Oceanic and Atmospheric Research (OAR) headquarters, where her responsibilities included managing congressional affairs, serving as the primary liaison between NOAA political appointees and OAR, overseeing day-to-day front office operations, providing strategic and policy advice to multiple OAR senior executive leaders, and leading strategic planning and organizational development initiatives.
Lauren is recognized for her leadership in strategic initiatives, such as developing OAR’s Strategic Plan, conducting an Organizational Health and Culture Assessment, and advancing the NOAA Water Initiative. Her ability to synthesize and distill complex information has been pivotal in advising senior executives and ensuring clear communication across various NOAA entities.
Throughout her career, Lauren’s dedication to operational excellence, fostering inclusive cultures, and advancing NOAA’s mission through strategic leadership have earned her multiple awards, including the NOAA Research Employee of the Year and the NOAA Research EEO/Diversity Award.