The purpose of the chair is to advance knowledge about the use of sensor networks. It is awarded by the Office of the Provost to a faculty member with expertise in either oceanography, atmospheric science, engineering or other closely related fields. John Delaney was named the first holder of the Chair in May 2006.

Over the years, Paros has worked with UW researchers as colleagues, customers and even as potential employees. He is the founder of Paroscientific, Inc., and related companies that manufacture sensors to measure pressure, acceleration, temperature, weight and other parameters based on the quartz crystal resonator technology that he developed. This technology is used in many atmospheric, oceanic and hydrologic applications because it permits the measurement of phenomena that have great spatial and temporal variability. When assembled into sensor networks, this technology enhances the ability to understand complex earth and ocean processes that produce climate change.