I congratulate Dr. Steve Murawski on the announcement of his new position as St. Petersburg Downtown Progress – Peter R. Betzer research professor at the University of South Florida’s College of Marine Science, which he will begin in January.
I want to thank Dr. Murawski for his 35 years of outstanding service to our nation and NOAA’s Fisheries Service as a scientist and a leader. As director of scientific programs and chief science advisor to the fisheries service for the last five years, Steve has overseen more than 25 laboratories, the use of more than nine offshore research vessels and the work of more than 2,000 staff throughout the United States. As chief scientist for the fisheries service, he and his staff have provided the scientific research necessary to guide management and conservation of our nation’s living marine resources and marine ecosystems. The science he and his staff provide is helping to protect and restore coastal and marine habitats, enhance populations of marine mammals and sea turtles, and rebuild fisheries that support vibrant coastal communities.
"I join with Eric Schwaab in thanking Dr. Murawski for his three and a half decades of service to NOAA’s Fisheries Service," said Dr. Jane Lubchenco, under secretary of commerce for oceans and atmosphere and NOAA administrator. “I want to particularly thank Steve for his tireless work in the last six months, helping NOAA and our nation respond effectively to the Deepwater Horizon oil spill, our nation’s worst marine oil spill. I have relied on Steve to provide NOAA and our nation with crucial scientific advice and leadership on a range of issues including seafood safety, the ecosystem effects of oil and the best ways to protect and recover protected species. I hope that we will continue to work with you, Steve, as you join the ranks of academia, but remain focused on our shared goal of better scientific understanding of our oceans."
NOAA is planning to conduct a national search to locate a suitable replacement for Dr. Murawski in the position of chief scientist for the fisheries service.
For more information contact Monica Allen, NOAA Fisheries Service Communications, at 301-713-2370