Taylor Geospatial Institute (TGI) is proud to announce the appointment of Elliott Kellner, Ph.D., MBA, as its next Executive Director. Kellner’s selection comes at a transformative moment in the Institute's evolution, following its successful transition to an independent nonprofit organization earlier this year. This new chapter positions TGI to deepen its partnerships, expand its impact, and advance its mission of driving world-class geospatial research and innovation from its base in St. Louis.
“TGI was founded to strengthen our region’s leadership in geospatial science and innovation,” said Kellner. “I am honored to lead this extraordinary organization into its next chapter—building on our strong foundation, accelerating research partnerships, and translating geospatial science into real-world solutions that make a difference locally, nationally, and globally.”
Kellner brings a distinctive blend of scientific expertise, strategic leadership, and partnership-building experience to the role. A former research faculty member at a land-grant, R-1 institution, he worked with the United States Department of Agriculture to support basin-scale agricultural conservation, advancing sustainable land and water resource management. More recently, as part of Donald Danforth Plant Science Center, Kellner helped forge collaborations between research teams and emerging technology companies, accelerating the commercialization of novel agtech innovations. Since joining, he has served as Chief Financial and Operating Officer and, most recently, as Interim Executive Director—guiding the organization through its transition to independence.
“Our Board is supremely confident that Elliott’s vision, experience, and deep commitment to TGI’s mission make him the right leader for this moment,” said Robert Cardillo, Chair of the TGI Board of Directors. “Going forward, Elliott's unique ability to connect world-class research with real-world impact is precisely what will allow TGI to strengthen its role as catalyst for innovation and economic growth.”
As Executive Director, Kellner will lead TGI’s efforts to unite researchers, government, and industry to solidify St. Louis’s position as a global geospatial innovation hub. His appointment reflects TGI’s enduring commitment to advancing the science, technology, and workforce development that underpin a thriving geospatial ecosystem..
About TGI: The Taylor Geospatial Institute brings together eight leading research institutions to accelerate geospatial research and innovation. Its work advances national competitiveness, strengthens regional economies, and tackles pressing global challenges through geospatial science.
