Dr. Asmeret Asefaw Berhe
(1975 – )
Scientist
Dr. Asmeret Asefaw Berhe is the Director of the Office of Science for the U.S. Department of Energy. Asmeret Asefaw Berhe is an Eritrean-American soil biogeochemist and professor. She is currently a professor of soil science at the University of California, Merced, where she specializes in the study of soil carbon and nutrient cycling, and their impact on ecosystem function and global climate change.
She received a B.Sc. in Soil and Water Conservation from the University of Asmara, an M.Sc. in Political Ecology from Michigan State University, and a Ph.D. in Biogeochemistry from the University of California, Berkeley. In 2020 she was named a Great Immigrant, Great American by the Carnegie Corporation of New York.
Asmeret is known for her groundbreaking research on the role of microorganisms in soil carbon cycling, and her work has helped to bridge the gap between the fields of soil science and microbial ecology. She is a highly respected scientist in her field and has received numerous awards and honors for her work, including being elected a Fellow of the American Association for the Advancement of Science.
Asmeret is also known for her commitment to mentorship and diversity in the sciences. She has mentored many students and postdoctoral researchers and has been an advocate for increasing the representation of women and people of color in STEM fields.
Motivational Quote:
“The beauty of science is that it’s not just about answering questions, but about asking new questions and uncovering new mysteries.”
5 Success Lessons
to learn from Dr. Asmeret Asefaw Berhe
- Tap into the collective creativity and innovative potential of all people.
- Keep exploring the unknown and pushing the boundaries.
- Empower the next generation to make their own discoveries.
- Use your knowledge to make a positive impact on the world.
- Make a commitment to protect the Earth’s ecosystem.
Sources: energy.gov carnegie.org
