David Gallagher has been selected as the next director of NASA’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory.
NASA said Wednesday California Institute of Technology, which manages the JPL, chose Gallagher to succeed Laurie Leshin, who will officially resign on June 1.
Who Is David Gallagher?
The incoming JPL director has been with the research and development center for over 36 years. He is currently the associate director for strategic integration, a position he has held since 2016. In this role, he spearheaded the overall strategy of the laboratory while managing its investment budget. He also oversaw strategic collaborations with other NASA centers, industry and foreign agencies.
Gallagher served as director of astronomy, physics and space technology for five years and as its deputy director before that. He also managed several programs, including the advanced optical systems, space interferometry mission and Spitzer Space Telescope programs. He served as an integration and test manager upon joining JPL in 1989.
Who Is Laurie Leshin?
Leshin, who has served as JPL director since 2022, is vacating the role for personal reasons. She will remain at Caltech as a Bren Professor of Geochemistry and Planetary Science.
She previously held various leadership roles at NASA, including deputy associate administrator of the Exploration Systems Mission Directorate and director of the Sciences and Exploration Directorate at the Goddard Space Flight Center. Leshin is also a veteran of academia with tenures at Worcester Polytechnic Institute, Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, Arizona State University and UCLA.
“Laurie Leshin’s leadership at JPL has been nothing short of extraordinary,” said acting NASA Administrator Janet Petro in a statement. “She brought a sharp scientific mind, a strong sense purpose, and a clear vision that helped propel the lab forward during a pivotal time. From groundbreaking missions to remarkable technological milestones, Laurie advanced JPL’s legacy of exploration and innovation. We are grateful for her service and wish her the very best as she continues to inspire in the next phase of her career,” she added.
“I’m equally confident in Dave Gallagher’s ability to lead JPL’s next chapter. He brings decades of experience, a steady hand, and a deep understanding of what makes JPL unique. With Dave at the helm, JPL remains well-positioned to continue delivering for NASA and the nation – pushing the boundaries of science and discovery for the benefit of all,” Petro continued.
