Renowned scientist work in underwater breathing apparatus uofa grad
- Dennis McCaslin
- Jul 14, 2025
- 1 min read
Dr. John R. Clarke, born November 20, 1945, in Lewiston, Idaho, is recognized globally for his groundbreaking contributions to diving physiology and underwater breathing systems.
As Scientific Director of the United States Navy Experimental Diving Unit (NEDU), Clarke has helped revolutionize the way military and commercial divers navigate the pressures and hazards of deep-sea exploration.
Clarke's academic path includes a Bachelor of Science in Physics from the University of Idaho and a Master’s degree in Oceanography from Florida State University.
However, his formative years of physiological research were spent at the University of Arkansas, where he completed his doctoral studies.
During this period, Clarke explored the intricacies of how the human body responds to extreme underwater environments—knowledge that later became vital to the development of safer and more effective diving apparatus.
While his professional endeavors eventually led him to Florida, Arkansas remains an integral chapter of his intellectual development. His work there laid the foundation for protocols and technologies that today protect thousands of divers around the world.
In addition to his scientific achievements, Clarke is a licensed pilot and published author. His novel Middle Waters blends fiction with real-world science, making his expertise accessible to a broader audience.
Through his writing and ongoing research, Clarke continues to educate, inspire, and push the boundaries of underwater safety.
Though his work impacts global exploration, Clarke’s connection to Arkansas remains a reminder of how regional education and research institutions can shape pioneers in science and innovation.
