Keck Institute for Space Studies Welcomes Michael Watkins as New Director

Michael M. Watkins, professor of aerospace and geophysics, has been appointed the new director of the Keck Institute for Space Studies (KISS). KISS, a "think and do tank," brings together scientists and engineers from campus, the Jet Propulsion Laboratory (which is managed by Caltech for NASA), and around the world to brainstorm and develop new space missions and related technologies. Past workshops include "Blazing Paths to Observing Stellar and Exoplanet Particle Environments," which bridged solar physics and exoplanet research, and "Innovative Approaches to Planetary Seismology," which helped develop the science case for NASA's Insight mission to Mars.

As director of KISS, Watkins will guide the institute's strategic vision, oversee its interdisciplinary study program, and foster collaborations that advance innovative research at the intersection of science, engineering, and space exploration.

Watkins earned both his bachelor's degree and PhD from the University of Texas at Austin, in 1983 and 1989, respectively. His accomplished career includes 27 years at JPL, serving as director from 2016 to 2021, in addition to previously serving as chief scientist for the Lab's Engineering and Science Directorate, manager of the Science Division, and manager of the Navigation and Mission Design Section.

He served as the mission manager for NASA's Curiosity rover, and the project scientist for the GRACE (Gravity Recovery and Climate Experiment), GRAIL (Gravity Recovery and Interior Laboratory), and GRACE Follow-On missions. Watkins co-originated the concept for GRACE, which uses a pair of Earth-orbiting satellites to make detailed measurements of Earth's gravity field anomalies.

"Mike brings a remarkable depth of experience and leadership to KISS, having previously served as director of JPL, with his career spanning scientific leadership and mission development at the highest levels," says KISS executive director Harriet Brettle. "We're thrilled that he will be bringing that experience, perspective, and energy to KISS as we look forward to shaping the future of space exploration together."

For more information about the Keck Institute for Space Studies and its work, please visit the website.