President Joe Biden's administration nominated David Applegate for director of the United States Geological Survey, Department of Interior officials said in a release in March.

“Science is at the heart of Interior’s mission, and the U.S. Geological Survey is essential to helping provide and strengthen the scientific integrity of our agency’s work," Department of Interior Secretary Deb Haaland said in a release. "For nearly two decades, David has helped advance the federal government’s scientific understanding of climate change and America’s geological features. As the confirmed Director, I am confident he will continue to empower the agency’s scientific and technical experts to use the best available science to help address the most pressing challenges of our time."

Before joining the USGS, Applegate worked with the American Geological Institute federation of geoscience societies. He directed science policy and served as the editor of Geotimes. He has a Bachelor of Science in Geology from Yale University and a Ph.D. in Geology from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology.

According to a White House news release, he is an adjunct full professor at the University of Utah and is a fellow of the American Association for the Advancement of Science and the Geological Society of America.

“Whether it’s investing in America’s infrastructure through the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, tackling the climate crisis, strengthening Indian Country, or championing ambitious clean energy goals, the Department of the Interior is swiftly moving to implement President Biden’s agenda,” Chief of Staff Rachael Taylor said. “Our new colleagues each bring with them unique skills and perspectives that will help deliver results for the American people.”