Speaker Biography

Dr. Thomas Zurbuchen

Associate Administrator for the Science Mission Directorate, NASA

Dr. Thomas Zurbuchen is NASA’s Associate Administrator for the Science Mission Directorate. Previously a professor of space science and aerospace engineering at the University of Michigan in Ann Arbor, Zurbuchen is well versed in the practice of asking tough questions that help enable innovation and create impact. His background in education has allowed him to find unique ways for others to excel.

On a daily basis, Zurbuchen works to ensure that NASA’s science missions are part of a balanced portfolio that enable great science, help us unveil the unknown and facilitate a better understanding of our place in the cosmos. He continues to bring a wealth of scientific research, engineering experience and hands-on knowledge to NASA’s world-class team of scientists and engineers. Zurbuchen sets the NASA Science strategy and enables the teams to carry it out.

Since day one at NASA’s Headquarters in Washington, DC, Zurbuchen has focused on inspiring learners of all ages and fostering an inclusive team of science leaders. Encouraging people to dive deeper and earn the future by striving for excellence today are key factors to the integrated approach he has adopted. Zurbuchen has created an environment where teams work together to achieve ambitious goals, excel well beyond the intended result and have the resources and support to achieve things they never thought were possible.

Zurbuchen also understands the connection of excellence and innovation, and he prioritizes having diverse viewpoints in the room when decisions are made.

During his career, Zurbuchen has authored or coauthored more than 200 articles in refereed journals in solar and heliospheric phenomena. He has also been involved with several NASA science missions involving Mercury, the Sun and more. His experience here has driven his passion of cultivating leaders and highlighting talent throughout the agency.

Zurbuchen earned his Ph.D. in physics and master of science degree in physics from the University of Bern in Switzerland.