The Marine Technology Society (MTS) has named MBARI Outgoing President and CEO/Senior Scientist Chris Scholin the 2026 MTS Fellow. Part of the society’s annual awards, the designation as a Marine Technology Society Fellow is one of their highest accolades. 

Scholin served as MBARI President and CEO from 2009 to 2025, championing the development of autonomous technologies that bring the lab to the ocean to observe dynamic ocean ecosystem processes. Now a senior scientist, his research focuses on the development and deployment of MBARI’s Environmental Sample Processor and other sensors to detect waterborne microorganisms and environmental DNA (eDNA) using molecular probe technology. 

Established in 1975, the MTS Fellow award recognizes members who have made outstanding contributions to the advancement of the society’s mission and distinguished accomplishments in their professional fields. Scholin was previously awarded the society’s Lockheed Martin Award for Ocean Science and Engineering in 2021. He currently serves as co-chair of the MTS eDNA Committee. 

Scholin was presented with his award at the 2026 MTS Awards, held virtually on September 29 during the 2026 MTS Annual Meeting.

Meet the 2026 MTS Awardees.

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