Carlson appointment underscores ASU BIOS’s global leadership in ocean science

Arizona State University’s Bermuda Institute of Ocean Sciences has taken a major step forward in advancing its global mission with the appointment of Craig Carlson as its new director. A worldrenowned marine biologist and ocean science leader, Carlson brings over three decades of scientific excellence and collaboration in Bermuda to the role. His selection affirms ASU BIOS’s position as a cornerstone of marine research, ocean education and interdisciplinary innovation in support of the Julie Ann Wrigley Global Futures Laboratory.

Carlson’s deep ties to Bermuda and ASU BIOS span more than 35 years, starting in the 1980s as a visiting researcher and later as a faculty member. His expertise bridges microbial oceanography and organic biogeochemistry, with a research focus on how microscopic organisms and dissolved organic matter interact to shape ocean health and climate processes. Through key projects such as the Bermuda Atlantic Time-series Study and the Microbial Observatory, Carlson has contributed to one of the most valuable long-term data records on ocean chemistry and microbial dynamics in the Atlantic. These programs serve as vital scientific assets for tracking the impact of climate change on marine ecosystems.

His leadership experience is equally impressive. Carlson has served as chair of the U.S. Ocean Carbon and Biogeochemistry Scientific Steering Committee and as science director for BIOSSCOPE — an international initiative that unites scientists from Bermuda, Europe, the United Kingdom and the United States. BIOS-SCOPE exemplifies the kind of large-scale, crossborder cooperation needed to understand ocean carbon cycles and the role of marine microbes in sustaining life on Earth. Carlson’s proven ability to lead interdisciplinary teams addressing complex global issues aligns perfectly with the mission and strategy of ASU BIOS.

Carlson also brings a rich academic pedigree, holding a bachelor’s degree in biology from Colby College, a doctorate in marine microbial ecology from the University of Maryland and postdoctoral training in organic biogeochemistry at BIOS. Since 2001, he has been a professor in the Department of Ecology, Evolution and Marine Biology at the University of California, Santa Barbara. His scholarly achievements have earned him top honors, including the G. Evelyn Hutchinson Award from ASLO, fellow status from the American Association for the Advancement of Science and recognition as an ASLO Sustaining Fellow.

The appointment marks a new chapter for ASU BIOS, as Carlson takes over from outgoing director Bill Curry, who praised him as “truly well qualified” and an ideal leader for this next era of ocean research. Carlson’s vision for ASU BIOS centers on interdisciplinary collaboration, real-time problem-solving and a deep commitment to preserving the health of the oceans. His leadership is expected to amplify the impact of ASU BIOS as it works at the front lines of ocean discovery, helping shape a more sustainable and resilient future for the planet.