The Department of Earth Sciences is saddened by sudden passing of our colleague Professor James Scott. Our hearts and thoughts go out to his family and to all of us who counted James as one of our friends. He will be deeply missed.

James research and teaching helped to expand our understanding of the remarkable ability of microbial communities to survive environmental extremes and, indeed, to shape the evolution of Earth. He discovered that microorganisms, as a community, are able to withstand tremendous pressure and changes in pressure. He was also a co-investigator on an upcoming NASA mission to Mars to search for compounds that form the building blocks of life, scheduled to fly next year. Ultimately, his work highlights the remarkable adaptability and resilience of life.

The bonds between us are the true strength of our Rox community. Because our bonds are strong, we feel the loss of one of our own more acutely. But through these bonds, James passed along a little of himself to many of us. We will always remember his ever present smile, his unique and engaging view of the world, and the passion he had for his work and sports. By remembering the best of James, we nourish his spirit and ensure that it will remain with us for many years to come.

We will have a memorial service on May 6th, 2010 where we will invite the broader Rox family to celebrate James' life.

Carl Renshaw
Chair, Dartmouth Earth Sciences