UCSD dean joins Obama administration

Peter Cowhey, Dean of the UC San Diego School of International Relations and Pacific Studies has been named to a senior position in the Obama administration’s Office of United States Trade Representative (USTR).

During a one-year leave of absence from UCSD Cowhey will serve as Senior Counselor to the U.S. Trade Representative focusing on strategy and negotiations.

In making the announcement, UC San Diego Senior Vice Chancellor for Academic Affairs Paul Drake, said, “It is an honor for Dean Cowhey and UCSD that Peter has been asked to serve in the Obama administration. His presence in this key position will raise the national and international profile of UC San Diego.”

For his part, Cowhey said, “I look forward to working with the leadership team of USTR on crafting a trade policy that is innovative, ambitious and in keeping with the President’s goals. Properly crafted, trade policy can broadly benefit the people of America and our trading partners.”

Cowhey is a widely recognized trade expert, and a scholar in the field, with special experience in telecommunications policy. His recently published book, titled “Transforming Global Information and Communication Markets,” focuses on telecommunications policy and information.

He is a political scientist specializing in international relations and comparative politics. His current research focuses on political economy with an emphasis on international trade and economic globalization, corporate governance, and regulatory systems.