AIP names new Vice President of Physics Resources Center

Catherine O’Riordan, an ocean scientist with broad experience in program management, has been chosen as the new head of the AIP’s Physics Resources Center, the institute announced today. The Physics Resources Center supports 10 physics societies by providing joint benefits and services to advance the science and profession of physics.

O’Riordan brings an outstanding leadership background from her prior positions that will enable the Physics Resources Center to continue to serve strongly the needs of the physical sciences community and AIP’s member societies,” said Louis Lanzerotti, the Chair of the Governing Board of AIP.

O’Riordan comes to AIP from the Consortium for Ocean Leadership in Washington, DC, where she managed ocean research and education programs including U.S. participation in an international program of basic research in marine geosciences. She formerly served as the manager of public affairs and other programs at the American Geophysical Union, a member society of AIP. Before working at AGU, O’Riordan conducted research with French and European colleagues on the physics and biogeochemistry of the marine environment along the coast of France.

“Catherine has excellent scientific credentials as well as first-rate managerial and communication skills, which should enable her to make this highly visible post a success,” said H. Frederick Dylla, AIP’s executive director. O’Riordan will work closely with Dylla and the vice president of AIP’s publishing operation, located in Melville, NY. She also plans to work with AIP’s member societies to increase international cooperation and cultural diversity in the physics community. She has experience in managing programs that help early-career scientists navigate their new lives and in connecting scientists with government decision-makers.

O’Riordan holds a B.S. in Mechanical Engineering from Case Western Reserve University and a M.S. and Ph.D. in Environmental Fluid Mechanics (Civil Engineering) from Stanford University.

O’Riordan will replace James H. Stith, who has served in the position for 10 years. She begins in her new position on September 2, 2008.

An expert in science program management will guide the future of the educational, statistical, historical, media and public policy programs and services of the US’ premier physics publisher, the American Institute of Physics, a nonprofit organization based in College Park, MD.