Earth System Science Professor Francois William Primeau, an integral member of the UCI School of Physical Sciences community for more than 25 years, passed away on Friday, June 19, 2026. Interim Dean of the School of Physical Sciences, Kieron Burke, shared the following message in honor of Francois' memory: 

Dear Physical Sciences community, 

With a heavy heart, I share that our trusted colleague and friend of more than 25 years, Francois William Primeau, passed away on Friday. This is an unimaginable loss for all who knew him. He is survived by his wife, Juno, and their son, Louis. 

Francois joined the UC Irvine Department of Earth System Science in 2001 and quickly became an indispensable member of our community. He served as Chair of the department from 2021 to 2024. During his tenure, he helped the school navigate the aftermath of COVID-19 and worked to minimize disruptions for students and faculty members.   

He was an internationally recognized leader in physical oceanography and ocean biogeochemistry, whose work helped deepen our understanding of global ocean circulation and global carbon and nutrient cycles. His research yielded foundational insights into the ocean’s role in regulating climate, including landmark studies on ocean ventilation, the global nitrogen budget, and the strength of the biological carbon pump. His work has equipped scientists with the tools to make more accurate climate predictions—a legacy that will benefit generations to come.  

Francois was a dedicated leader, researcher, mentor, colleague, and friend. He will be remembered for his excitement in sharing mathematical insights and his enthusiasm for Bayesian statistics. His smile was always warm, and his door was always open. We were all fortunate to know him and to count him among our community. We have lost one of our best. 

Sincerely, 

Kieron Burke 
Interim Dean, School of Physical Sciences