Kurt R Newman, PhD

Dr. Newman earned his B.S. from Michigan State University, followed by an M.S. from Virginia Tech. He then returned to Michigan State University to complete his Ph.D. in Fisheries and Wildlife.  Throughout his graduate education Kurt concentrated on fish population dynamics, aquatic ecology, statistical sampling design, and modeling.  He brings extensive leadership, management, and research experience in various areas, including structure and function of aquatic ecosystems, interdisciplinary research of aquatic ecosystems, and inter-jurisdictional management of fisheries and fish habitat programs.  Before joining the USGS in 2009 with the Great Lakes Science Center (GLSC), he held several leadership positions within the Michigan Department of Natural Resources. In 2009, he became the GLSC Deepwater Sciences Branch Chief, where he has been instrumental in supporting the Center’s daily operations and guiding Branch science. As Branch Chief his work focused on delivering actionable science in areas such as prey fish population assessment, aquatic invasive species control, and native fish species restoration.

As Director, Kurt will emphasize the importance of people, infrastructure, and science in the Center’s work. He believes fostering strong teams built through regional and national collaboration, investing in robust infrastructure and work processes, and advancing scientific research are crucial for achieving sustainable and impactful outcomes in aquatic ecosystem management and restoration. He is confident the Center’s dedication and expertise will lead to significant advancements in the field, ensuring the health and sustainability of our aquatic ecosystems for future generations.

Kurt places great importance on advancing racial equity and promoting Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Accessibility (DEIA) within the Center and larger USGS workforce and holds supporting his staff in balancing their work and family needs in all their endeavors as a core value.