Larry Roe, director of the Arkansas Center for Space and Planetary Sciences and an associate professor in the Department of Mechanical Engineering, has been named the new graduate coordinator for the space and planetary sciences graduate program. Roe's appointment comes after John Dixon, former graduate coordinator for the program, retired last month.

"I am excited Dr. Roe will be leading the space and planetary sciences program and am confident he will continue to grow the program and support the many talented students from across the globe who choose to study at the University of Arkansas," said Kim Needy, dean of the Graduate School and International Education.

Roe was one of the space center's founders and took on the role of director in 2015. He has taught courses and mentored graduate students in the space and planetary sciences program since its creation. Roe's research interests include Mars simulation and modeling, Titan simulation, spacecraft robotic sampling systems, inflatable space structures and propulsion.

The space and planetary sciences program is one of six interdisciplinary graduate programs offered at the University of Arkansas. The program is housed within the Graduate School and International Education.