BOULDER - The director of the National Center for Atmospheric Research in Boulder said he will step down from the position to become the new president of Florida State University.

Eric J. Barron, an alumnus of FSU, took over as NCAR director in July 2008.

Officials with the University Corporation for Atmospheric Research, which operates NCAR, said they would begin the search for a new director soon.

"In his brief tenure at NCAR, Eric has made a large positive impact," said UCAR President Richard Anthes in a press release. "He has begun a number of significant initiatives that will continue to guide the future of this organization at a critical time for weather and climate research. We are sorry to lose him, but thank him for the thoughtful leadership and ability to build consensus that will also serve him well in the leadership position at Florida State."