MONIZ NAMES UCS PRESIDENT AS CHIEF OF STAFF

New Secretary of Energy Ernest Moniz has selected Kevin Knobloch, president of the Union of Concerned Scientists, to serve as his Chief of Staff, effective June 24. Knobloch has headed UCS since December 2003, and before then served as the group’s executive director for four years. Knobloch also served as UCS’ legislative director for arms control and national security from 1989-1992. “I am confident that Kevin’s deep understanding of energy issues and experience as an outstanding manager will be of incredible value to the Department,” Moniz said in a message to employees yesterday. In a separate statement yesterday, Knobloch said, “The bar for leaving my post is very high, and I would only do so for a call to public service of this order. The priorities of Secretary Moniz and the DOE, including reducing carbon emissions, expanding clean renewable energy, and reducing the threat of nuclear weapons and fissile material, have been passions throughout my career. This is a strong opportunity to improve the health and safety of all Americans.”