The University of Washington School of Marine & Environmental Affairs (SMEA) is pleased to welcome Dr. Phil Levin as the School’s new Director.

An internationally recognized conservation scientist, Dr. Levin has dedicated his career to advancing interdisciplinary approaches that connect science, policy, and communities to address complex environmental challenges. His work bridges the natural and social sciences, helping develop innovative tools that support the conservation of marine, freshwater, and terrestrial ecosystems while recognizing the needs of the people who depend on them.

Most recently, Dr. Levin served in the White House Office of Science and Technology Policy as Director of the nation’s first-ever National Nature Assessment, a landmark effort to better understand the status and trends of nature across the United States and inform future conservation and policy decisions. The initiative continues today through the United by Nature Initiative.

Before his service in the White House, Dr. Levin was a Senior Scientist at NOAA Fisheries’ Northwest Fisheries Science Center in Seattle, where he led NOAA’s Integrated Ecosystem Assessment efforts in the California Current Large Marine Ecosystem and Puget Sound. His research focused on ecosystem health, climate resilience, and forecasting the cumulative effects of coastal management and climate change on marine ecosystems.

Throughout his distinguished career, Dr. Levin has authored more than 200 peer-reviewed publications, book chapters, and technical reports, and has edited the book Conservation of the Anthropocene Ocean: Interdisciplinary Approaches for Nature and People. His contributions to marine science and conservation have earned numerous honors, including the U.S. Department of Commerce Silver Award, NOAA’s Bronze Medal, and the Seattle Aquarium Conservation Research Award.

Beyond his research, Dr. Levin has served in leadership roles across the scientific community, including as President of the Western Society of Naturalists and as a member of numerous editorial boards and scientific advisory panels. His work has been featured by NPR, PBS, The New York Times, the BBC, MSNBC, and The Economist, among other national and international media outlets.

As Director, Dr. Levin will lead SMEA in its mission to prepare the next generation of leaders in marine and environmental affairs through interdisciplinary education, innovative research, and meaningful engagement with communities and decision-makers.

Please join us in welcoming Dr. Phil Levin to the SMEA community. We look forward to the leadership, expertise, and vision he brings as we continue advancing solutions for a more sustainable and equitable future.