According to an announcement by industry support leader the National Mining Association, Myers was most recently the state geologist for the state of Alaska as well as its Division of Oil and Gas director. Additionally, he served as on the state’s Division of Geological and Geophysical Survey as director as well as state geologist.

A graduate of the University of Alaska-Fairbanks with a doctorate in geology, Myers is also a former president and board member for the Alaska Geological Society and is a member of the American Institute of Professional Geologists as a certified professional geologist, the NMA report said.

“Mark is known not only for his accomplishments as a geologist and state survey manager but also for the consensus building approach he has emphasised throughout his career,” said USGS acting interior secretary Lynn Scarlett in a statement earlier this month, adding that Myers brings “more than 22 years of wide-ranging experience in geological science” to the post and the agency.

Until confirmation of Myers’ appointment, the position will continue to be managed by Dr Patrick Leahy, who has held the seat since June 2005 when he replaced Dr Charles Groat.