Yoko Furukawa

Yoko Furukawa is an accomplished scientist and leader in the field of geosciences with extensive experience in both government and academic settings. Currently serving as Branch Chief for Physical and Chemical Sciences at the Bureau of Ocean Energy Management since June 2021, Yoko leads a team in conducting impactful research to guide policy on offshore energy and mineral resources. Prior to this role, Yoko was Science Director at ONR Global, where efforts focused on fostering partnerships in science and technology for naval research. Yoko's career includes significant contributions as a researcher and director at the Naval Research Laboratory, a member of the Navy SERDP Technical Committee, and a Research Scientist at The University of Southern Mississippi. Yoko holds a Ph.D. in Geosciences from Penn State University, a Bachelor's in Mineral Resources Engineering from Waseda University, and has completed a Leadership Development Program at Melbourne Business School.