National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) Administrator Charles Bolden announced on Tuesday that Waleed Abdalati will serve as the agency's chief scientist and will be his principal adviser on agency science programs, strategic planning, and the evaluation of related investments starting January 3. “We are excited to have Waleed return to the agency during such a critical transition period,” Bolden said. “His experience, wide-range of scientific knowledge, and familiarity with NASA will greatly benefit the agency. He will be a true advocate for our many and diverse science research and exploration programs.” Abdalati is currently the director of the Earth and Science and Observation Center at the University of Colarado. Between 1998 and 2008, he held various positions at NASA in the areas of scientific research, program management, and scientific management. His research has focused on the study of polar ice cover using satellite and airborne instruments. Abdalati will represent all of the scientific activities in the agency, ensuring they are aligned with and fulfill the administration's science objective, the agency said. He will also advocate for NASA science in the context of government science agendas and work closely with the White House Office of Science and Technology Policy and the Office of Management and Budget.
