Speaker Nancy Pelosi named Matthew Wasniewski the new House historian Wednesday.

Wasniewski currently serves as deputy historian in the House Clerk’s Office of History and Preservation. The appointment is effective immediately.

“Dr. Wasniewski brings enormous experience and energy to the job of House Historian,” the California Democrat said in a release. “His knowledge of congressional history, and his familiarity with cutting edge research and archival techniques make him the perfect candidate for this position.”

Wasniewski received a unanimous recommendation from the nonpartisan search committee. He replaces Robert Remini, who served as the House historian for five years and retired in August. The search for Remini’s replacement began after he announced his decision to leave in June.

“I am honored and thrilled by the fact that both sides of the leadership supported this appointment. And I look forward to what I will be able to do in this new office,” Wasniewski said.

Passed over for the job was acting Historian Fred Beuttler. Beuttler has been the deputy historian since the creation of the Office of the Historian in 2005.

Beuttler did not comment on the appointment but said he had hoped to get the job and does not know if he will stay with the office.

Wasniewski started working for the Clerk’s office in 2002 as a publication specialist when the Office of History and Preservation was created.