Andrew Jones has been named the first science advisor to California Natural Resources Secretary Wade Crowfoot, according to an announcement from the California Council on Science and Technology (CCST). His appointment comes as part of the new CCST Science Residency Program.
In his new role, Jones will provide guidance to Crowfoot and leaders at the California Natural Resources Agency (CNRA) on issues related to science and technology that impact natural resource policy. He will also work to strengthen connections between scientific and policy communities. The Science Residency Program is designed to promote evidence-based policymaking in areas such as climate resilience, biodiversity, wildfire adaptation, water management, and ecosystem health.
“California’s environmental challenges are urgent and multifaceted,” said Jones. “I look forward to supporting CNRA’s mission by helping integrate rigorous scientific insight into cross-agency collaboration and policymaking that advances resilience, equitable outcomes, and sustainable resource stewardship.”
Jones holds a master’s degree and a doctorate in Energy & Resources from UC Berkeley. He is currently an associate adjunct professor in the Energy & Resources Group at UC Berkeley and is on leave from his position as a research scientist at Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory.
Crowfoot described the appointment as significant for the agency. “Our partnerships with California’s world-class academic and research institutions build on the strong work of state scientists and point the way forward,” he said. “Jones’ renowned expertise and leadership will strengthen how we use science to protect Californians and build a bright future for our state.”
The CCST facilitated this appointment with support from the Gordon and Betty Moore Foundation.
