University of Rhode Island hires NASA scientist as dean

SOUTH KINGSTOWN, R.I. (AP) - A NASA scientist will join the University of Rhode Island as dean of the Graduate School of Oceanography.

Paula S. Bontempi, an alumna of the school and a biological oceanographer for over 25 years, is slated to begin her new role at the university’s Narragansett Bay campus late this summer.

Bontempi joins the school from the Earth Science Division of NASA headquarters in Washington, D.C. where she serves as acting deputy director.

“Dr. Bontempi’s vision and dedication to furthering ocean science and ecology, together with her research, public policy experience and her passion for mentoring the next generation of scientists will serve to enrich the experience of all faculty, staff and students at GSO,” Provost Donald DeHayes said in a press release.

Bontempi will replace Dean Bruce H. Corliss who has held the role since 2012. Corliss announced his retirement last spring.