Dr. Karl Benedict has worked since 1986 in parallel tracks of information management, geospatial information technology and archaeology. Within the College of University Libraries & Learning Sciences he serves as an Associate Professor; as the Director of the Research Data Services Program, Director of IT Services, and as subject liaison for the departments of Geography and Environmental Studies at the University of New Mexico. His previous experience includes fifteen years at the Earth Data Analysis Center (one of the original members of the Federation of Earth Science Information Partners) at the University of New Mexico, for the US Forest Service, National Park Service, and in the private sector conducting archaeological research, developing geospatial databases, performing geospatial and statistical analyses, and developing web-based information delivery applications. In these positions he has developed and managed the development of information technology and data management capacity in support of multiple research and application domains including public health, resource management, hydro-climate research, atmospheric modeling, disaster planning and mitigation, renewable energy research, and data management training. In his role as the Director of Research Data Services he works with his team to support effective research data management by researchers at UNM through instruction, training, consultation, and infrastructure support. His current research foci include the development of open standards-based interoperable data management workflows and infrastructure in support of diverse research projects and streamlining the integration of research data products into long-term preservation systems to maximize the ongoing value of those data beyond the projects in which they are collected or generated.

Karl has been involved in the Earth Science Information Partners since 2001 and has previously served as Chair of the Information Technology and Interoperability Committee, Type 3 Representative, Vice President and President. He also served on the Foundation for Earth Science Board of Directors for eight years, including five years as President/Chair of the Board.