Thomas G Barnes, III

Dr. Thomas G. Barnes, III, a distinguished figure in the field of astronomy, earned his Ph.D. from the University of Toronto. His academic journey led him to the University of Texas at Austin in 1970, where he began his tenure as the W. J. McDonald Postdoctoral Fellow. Over the years, Dr. Barnes has contributed significantly to the McDonald Observatory, holding a variety of roles such as Assistant Professor of Astronomy, Research Scientist, Assistant Director, Associate Director, and Senior Research Scientist. Dr. Barnes's leadership was instrumental during his 21-year tenure as the chief operating officer of McDonald Observatory, where he worked under the guidance of directors Harlan J. Smith and Frank N. Bash. His expertise and dedication have also been recognized on a national level, as he has served on review panels for prestigious agencies like the National Science Foundation and NASA. His commitment to advancing the field of astronomy is further evidenced by his role as a referee for international journal publications. In addition to his contributions to academia and research, Dr. Barnes has played a pivotal role in science communication. Since 1991, he has been the Technical Editor for StarDate radio and StarDate magazine, where he has helped bridge the gap between complex astronomical concepts and public understanding. His editorial work ensures that the latest developments in astronomy are accessible to a broader audience. From 2006 to 2008, Dr. Barnes expanded his influence in the scientific community by serving as a Program Manager at the National Science Foundation. This role allowed him to contribute to the strategic direction and funding of astronomical research projects, further solidifying his impact on the field. Throughout his career, Dr. Barnes has demonstrated a profound commitment to both scientific excellence and public engagement. His multifaceted contributions to the field of astronomy continue to inspire both his peers and the next generation of astronomers.