Todd Gaier, Director for Astronomy and Physics

Dr. Todd Gaier was appointed director for Astronomy and Physics in April 2024. Prior to that, he served as the deputy director and chief technologist for Astronomy and Physics. He was also co-investigator and project manager for the Temporal Experiment for Storms and Tropical Systems Demonstrator (TEMPEST-D). He joined JPL in 1996, leading a group in Division 38 that developed technologies and instruments using monolithic microwave integrated circuit components. His group supported projects including the Planck-Low Frequency Instrument, the advanced microwave radiometers for the Jason-II and III missions, the integrated receivers for the Juno microwave radiometers and the Compact Ocean Wind Vector Radiometer. He holds a Ph.D. in physics from the University of California, Santa Barbara, and a bachelor’s in physics from Tufts University.

Todd is a JPL Fellow and a Senior Research Scientist. He is the recipient of NASA’s Exceptional Public Achievement and Outstanding Public Leadership Medals.