A respected expert in coastal science and management with nearly 20 years' experience at the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) will head NOAA's research of marine ecosystems beginning in October.
Department of Commerce (DOC) Sec. Gina Raimondo announced on Sept. 7 the appointment of Steve Thur as assistant administrator for NOAA's Oceanic and Atmospheric Research (NOAA Research) division, which is "primarily responsible for foundational research that is key to understanding our weather, climate and marine ecosystems," according to the announcement.
NOAA administrator Rick Spinrad said a "cornerstone" of Thur's career has been “connecting the many important ways healthy coastal environments support vibrant communities and economies,” the announcement states. “His scientific perspective and record of action on diversity, equity, justice and inclusion will be crucial as we work together to build climate-resilient communities across the country.”
For his part, Thur said he is "excited and humbled to be joining these dedicated professionals in service to the American public through science.”
“Throughout my career," Thur said in the announcement, "I have partnered with NOAA Research labs and programs to address some of the most pressing challenges along our coasts, and I have been impressed with the ingenuity and passion of the staff,” Thur said.
Thur earned his Ph.D. in marine policy from the University of Delaware’s Graduate College of Marine Studies and bachelor’s degrees in biology and economics from St. Mary’s College of Maryland. He has served NOAA in roles from an economist assessing environmental damages after oil spills and other such crises, to overseeing the first nationwide efforts to monitor and conserve coral reefs. He worked as the acting director and deputy director of National Centers for Coastal Ocean Science (NCCOS) from 2013 to 2017, managing a staff of more than 260 and the operations of four marine laboratories, the announcement reports.
“With the impacts of climate change being felt across our country, the need for the credible and timely science provided by NOAA Research has never been greater,” Thur said, according to the release. “I am excited and humbled to be joining these dedicated professionals in service to the American public through science.”
