Statement by Director John P. Holdren on the Passing of Jack Marburger

It is with great sadness that I note the passing of Dr. John H. Marburger, III, former Director of the White House Office of Science and Technology Policy and Science Advisor to President George W. Bush.

Jack Marburger leaves a legacy of exceptional public service and substantial scientific contributions. He was the Nation’s longest-serving Presidential Science Advisor, and his focus on basic research as a driver of economic growth was a common thread across Congresses and Administrations. Even while battling cancer, Jack continued to serve in the White House and improved the ways in which the benefits of scientific investments are measured and valued. His input and contributions to the Nation, the science community, and academia will be sorely missed.

Jack was an esteemed scientist and public servant. Those of us who had the privilege to know him benefited greatly from his extensive knowledge, pragmatic thinking, and warm friendship, and we take comfort in knowing that his determination to explore new scientific frontiers and his enduring commitment to America’s farsighted focus on science and technology will be continued by all those he inspired. Our heartfelt sympathies go out to his family.

###