Virginia Tech has appointed Dr. Jonathan van Senten as the new director of the Virginia Seafood Agricultural Research and Extension Center (VSAREC), effective September 25, 2025. Van Senten, who has spent nearly a decade with VSAREC, brings extensive expertise in aquaculture economics, business planning, and industry development.
In his new role, he will lead the center’s work to strengthen Virginia’s seafood and aquaculture sectors through applied research, outreach, and economic analysis. His leadership is expected to enhance collaboration between researchers, producers, and policymakers to support sustainable growth and competitiveness across the state’s seafood industry.
Van Senten holds a Ph.D. in Aquaculture and Fisheries from the University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff and has focused much of his research on the economic and regulatory challenges facing aquaculture businesses. His appointment reflects Virginia Tech’s continued commitment to supporting innovation and resilience in the seafood economy.