Ala. Code § 9-4-1: State Geologist - Qualifications, Appointment and Term of Office; Vacancies.

There shall be a State Geologist. In the event of a vacancy in the office of State Geologist from any cause, the most competent geologist available, either from the staff of the Geological Survey of Alabama or elsewhere, to be designated by the President of the University of Alabama with the approval of the Governor, shall be the State Geologist, whose term of office shall be at the will of the appointing powers. Whenever a vacancy shall subsequently occur, said vacancy shall be filled in a like manner, and the tenure of office shall be determined as aforesaid.