Rutgers-Trained Scientist and NOAA Researcher Is Named State Climatologist
June 25, 2026
John Krasting, a Rutgers-trained climate scientist whose career has spanned broadcast meteorology, climate modeling, and sea-level research, has been named the New Jersey state climatologist, succeeding David Robinson, who is retiring after 35 years in the role.
John Krasting, a Rutgers-trained climate scientist and longtime NOAA researcher, is the incoming New Jersey state climatologist. Based at the School of Environmental and Biological Sciences, he will lead the state climate office and help turn climate data into practical information for communities across New Jersey.
Krasting, whose name is pronounced to rhyme with “lasting,” will begin July 1 as an extension specialist in the Department of Environmental Sciences at the Rutgers School of Environmental and Biological Sciences and the New Jersey Agricultural Experiment Station. He will oversee the Office of the New Jersey State Climatologist and the Rutgers New Jersey Weather Network, known as the NJWxNet, a statewide system of 70 weather stations that provides real-time environmental data.
The Office of the New Jersey State Climatologist was established at Rutgers in 1979 by the late Gov. Brendan Byrne to serve as a statewide source of weather and climate expertise. The office gathers, analyzes and shares climate information to support planning, research, emergency preparedness and public understanding across the state.
Krasting’s appointment comes at a time when climate information has become increasingly important to decisions about flooding, water resources, agriculture, public health, infrastructure, coastal planning and emergency preparedness.
Reposted from Rutgers Today