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Science, Environment and Technology finalist: Steven Musser

During Public Service Recognition Week 2022, the Partnership is spotlighting some finalists in each award category for this fall’s Samuel J. Heyman Service to America Medals® program.

Today, we are focusing on the Science, Environment and Technology category, which recognizes a federal employee or team for a significant accomplishment in fields such as medicine, economics, energy, information technology, space, meteorology and resource conservation.

One of this year’s finalists is Steven Musser, the deputy center director for scientific operations at the Food and Drug Administration’s Center for Food Safety and Applied Nutrition. Throughout his distinguished career, Musser has championed the use of whole genome sequencing and a public database to identify foodborne diseases that sicken millions of people every year, enabling authorities to remove dangerous products more quickly from the marketplace and protect public health.

What’s your best career advice?

A career lasts decades, so try to find something you really enjoy doing. You’ll be happier in every part of your life if you enjoy your job.

What’s one fun or surprising thing we should know about you?

I’m a very serious wildlife photographer.

Who is your favorite public servant?

There are a lot of good choices in this area. I’d have to go for Theodore Roosevelt for establishing national parks and the Food and Drug Administration.

What is your favorite thing about working for the U.S. government?

Seeing the daily and direct impact of our work on improving the health and safety of the American public.

What object would you save if your house were on fire?

I would save my family and pets first. If time allowed, I would save my camera equipment.

Do you have pets?

Yes, two dogs. A toller named Persie and a Brittany spaniel named Stella.

What are you reading, watching or listening to?

Although not new books, I’ve just finished James Michener’s “Caribbean” and started “Chesapeake.”

What’s your favorite takeout order or favorite thing to cook?

My favorite takeout is pizza.

Be on the lookout for more profiles of our Sammies finalists during Public Service Recognition Week 2022. To learn more about Steven Musser and our other honorees, read his full profile and visit our Sammies website.

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