Franz Wuerfmannsdobler

Franz Wuerfmannsdobler joined the Office of U.S. Senator Christopher Coons (D-DE) in March 2011 where he serves as the Senior Policy Advisor. His portfolio includes energy, environment, innovation and appropriations. Prior to this position, he served as a professional staff member on the Senate Energy and Water Appropriations Subcommittee as well as the Senior Energy Policy Advisor to Senator Byron L. Dorgan (D-ND). From 1998 to 2006, he was a legislative assistant for Senator Robert C. Byrd (D-WV) where he handled energy, environment, climate change, and natural resource issues. Franz has been engaged in important elements of the Energy Policy Act of 2005 and the Energy Independence and Security Act of 2007. His role included promoting reformed fuel economy, renewable fuels, energy efficiency, advanced clean coal, oil and gas production, and international clean energy deployment. Prior to his Senate tenure, he worked in the Department of State’s Bureau of Oceans and International Environmental and Scientific Affairs. Franz has a MSc. in Environmental Management and Policy from Oxford University and a B.A. in cultural studies and history from the University of Denver.