December 1, 2024

NASA Selects Director of Heliophysics Division As New Head of Science

Illustration of the Parker Solar Probe spacecraft approaching the sun. Credit: Johns Hopkins University Applied Physics Laboratory
Fox started her NASA career in 2018 leading the Heliophysics Division, supervising the companys efforts to study the Sun and how its constant solar wind impacts Earth and other planets. Prior to that, she operated at the Johns Hopkins University Applied Physics Laboratory, where she was the chief scientist for heliophysics and the job scientist for NASAs Parker Solar Probe.
Throughout her profession, Fox has actually authored various scientific short articles and papers, in addition to delivering science discussions worldwide. In 2021, she was granted the American Astronautical Societys Carl Sagan Memorial Award for her demonstrated leadership in the field of heliophysics with extensive job, program, and supervisory experience. She likewise is a recipient of NASAs Outstanding Leadership Medal, awarded in 2020.

Dr. Nicola Fox to serve as the associate administrator for the firms Science Mission Directorate at NASA Headquarters in Washington, effective Monday, February 27, 2023. Credit: NASA/Aubrey Gemignani
NASA Administrator Bill Nelson announced Monday Dr. Nicola Fox will function as the associate administrator for the firms Science Mission Directorate at NASA Headquarters in Washington, effective immediately.
” As the director of our Heliophysics Division, Nicky was crucial in expanding the effects and awareness of NASAs solar expedition missions and I look forward to working with her as she brings her skills, know-how, and passion to her new role,” Nelson stated. “Were all grateful for the interim leadership of Sandra Connelly, who has done an unbelievable job keeping the mission moving on over the last couple of months.”
As NASAs head of Science, Foxs portfolio includes more than 100 NASA missions to explore the secrets of deep space– objectives that examine concerns as far varying as how typhoons form on Earth, how we can support astronauts on the Moon, and whether we are alone in the universe. She also will be accountable for fostering an inclusive, inviting atmosphere and supporting a varied team of researchers and engineers around the country at all phases of their professions.