Michael Simpkins, Ph.D.

Education

• Ph.D. Marine Biology – University of Alaska Fairbanks, 2000
• M.S. Ecology – Penn State University 1994
• B.S. Biology – Penn State University 1994

Professional History

• 2015-Present: Chief, Research Evaluation and Assessment Division, NMFS Northeast Fisheries Science Center, Woods Hole, MA
• 2010-2015: Chief, Protected Species Branch, NMFS Northeast Fisheries Science Center, Woods Hole, MA
• 2008-2010: International Fisheries Management Specialist, NMFS International Affairs, Silver Spring, MD
• 2004-2008: Assistant Scientific Program Director, Marine Mammal Commission, Bethesda, MD
• 2002-2004: Research Fishery Biologist, National Marine Mammal Lab, NMFS Alaska Fisheries Science Center, Seattle, WA
• 2000-2002: National Research Council Postdoctoral Research Associate, National Marine Mammal Lab, NMFS Alaska Fisheries Science Center, Seattle, WA

Mike is proud to serve as Chief of a group of highly talented and passionate scientists in the Resource Evaluation and Assessment Division (READ), which includes the Ecosystem Dynamics and Assessment, Population Dynamics, Protected Species, and Social Sciences Branches. These scientists work to provide the sound science needed to (a) maintain, rebuild, and recover sustainable wild populations of commercial, recreational, and protected species, (b) maintain and enhance coastal communities and economies, and (c) support comprehensive management of living marine resources based on an understanding of marine ecosystems. READ staff deliver scientific products for protected species, for fisheries management, and for understanding the social, economic, and ecosystem ramifications of it all. A lot is changing in our oceans, in our fisheries, and in our communities. It is both an exciting and a challenging time to study our marine ecosystems, industries, and communities to inform difficult resource management decisions, but READ staff are up to the challenge. Mike is committed to working internally and with our partners and stakeholders to continue to improve our scientific advice and support the management of the amazing marine resources and species off our shores and the communities and industries that depend on those resources.