Gary T. Mitchum

Professor Gary T. Mitchum serves as Associate Dean for Research and Professor in the College of Marine Science at the University of South Florida (USF), where he has been since 1996. Previously, he held a faculty position at the University of Hawaii’s Department of Oceanography and directed its Sea Level Center. His research focuses on sea level rise, ocean physics, satellite and in-situ data analysis, El Niño phenomena, and fisheries applications. He holds a Ph.D. and B.S. from Florida State University (1984 and 1980).

Key projects include multi-model sea level forecasts for the U.S. coast (NOAA-funded) and climate data records of sea level change (NASA-funded). He has led or co-led four major research projects between 2013–2022. His awards include the 1992 AGU Editor’s Citation and a National Merit Scholarship.

Research interests span satellite altimetry, ocean eddies, and climate impacts. He teaches courses like Geophysical Fluid Dynamics and Physical Oceanography. His work addresses coastal vulnerability, global sea level acceleration, and ocean dynamics. Active in advisory roles, he contributes to the USF Office of Corporate Partnerships and the College’s Tenure Committee.