NASA names Planetary Science Director Jim Green as new chief scientist

NASA announced that it had found a new chief scientist in Jim Green, who currently serves as director of its Science Mission Directorate Planetary Science Division.

Green will replace the retiring Gale Allen effective May 1, after the latter served as the space agency's chief scientist since 2016 with 30 years of government service.

Green comes to the key role as chief scientist after 12 years in charge of NASA's Planetary Science Division.

Today, we welcome the enthusiasm and expertise of longtime science advocate and current Planetary Science Director Jim Green to the role of chief scientist: https://t.co/CrX11U0FOR
Succeeding Jim is Lori Glaze, chief of the Planetary Geology, Geophysics & Geochemistry Lab. pic.twitter.com/lpM4rrpdlC
-- NASA (@NASA) April 10, 2018

"During his 12 years in this role, he managed numerous successful missions from Mercury to Pluto that have ushered in a golden age of planetary exploration," the space agency reports in the release. "These missions include: the Lunar Reconnaissance Orbiter; Mars rovers Spirit, Opportunity and Curiosity; and the New Horizons mission to Pluto and beyond.

"Currently, he is engaged in preparations and negotiations for a variety of future NASA science missions, such as the next Mars lander and rover, and the Europa Clipper, as well as missions with international partners."

NASA reports that Green's duties as chief scientist include representing its objectives and accomplishments to the national and international science community. He will also serve as an advisor to NASA acting administrator Robert Lightfoot and other senior officials regarding strategic planning, science policy and any evaluations.

"I want to thank Gale for all she has done for the agency and, for the past few years, in the Office of the Chief Scientist. Gale had an amazing career and is a role model to so many. I wish her the best in retirement," Lightfoot said in the release.

"I'm excited to have Jim take on this new role. He brings a variety of scientific research experience and planetary exploration expertise to the chief scientist position that will allow him to hit the ground running with great enthusiasm and engagement."

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