Leadership

Scott D. Sampson, PhD
Executive Director and William R. and Gretchen B. Kimball Chair

Dr. Sampson leads the institution’s world-class museum as well as its programs of scientific research, sustainability, and education. A renowned paleontologist, passionate science communicator, and seasoned museum leader, Sampson joined the Academy in September 2019.

Shannon Bennett, PhD
Chief Science Officer and Harry W. and Diana V. Hind Dean of Science and Research Collections

Dr. Bennett is responsible for the Academy’s programs of scientific research and exploration, as well as overseeing the Academy’s priceless collection of nearly 46 million scientific specimens from around the world.

Michael Costanzo
General Counsel and Chief Risk Officer

Costanzo is the senior leader who manages legal processes, security, safety, and enterprise risk management at the Academy.

Cathy Estelle
Chief Sales and Operations Officer

Estelle oversees the Academy’s earned revenue portfolio—including ticketing, retail, food and beverage, NightLife, event rentals, and guest experience operations—as well as building operations and IT. Her focus is on driving revenue, optimizing systems, and enhancing the visitor experience in support of the Academy’s mission.

Estefanía Pihen González, PhD
Chief of Education and Learning

Dr. Pihen González is responsible for leading the Academy’s extensive education and engagement programs, including a team of about 45 staff, 30 paid interns, and 400 volunteers.

Mathew Lau
Chief Financial Officer

Lau oversees the Academy’s finances, both short- and long-term, including Accounting and Financial Planning & Analysis. He's committed to ethically and effectively stewarding the Academy's portfolio of assets and ensuring financial sustainability in support of the institution's mission and strategic goals.

Amber Mace, PhD
Managing Director and Chief Strategy Officer

Dr. Mace leads strategy for the Academy and guides the senior leadership team, with direct responsibility for divisions dedicated to science and education, innovation, sales and operations, people and culture, as well as Steinhart Aquarium, strategic partnerships, government affairs and strategic planning.

Sina Mossayeb, PhD
Chief Innovation Officer

Dr. Mossayeb works closely with leaders across the Academy to foster bold ideas through cross-disciplinary collaboration, integrate emerging technologies, and build partnerships with Bay Area innovators in order to shape experiences that deepen public engagement and make the Academy’s work more relevant to everyday life.

Mark Ruffo, PhD
Chief Advancement Officer

Dr. Ruffo works closely with the Academy Board of Trustees and a team of development professionals to raise philanthropic gifts that support the Academy's scientific research, environmental literacy programs, conservation initiatives, and museum experiences. 

Academy Fellows

A governing group of approximately 450 distinguished scientists, Academy Fellows have made notable contributions to one or more of the natural sciences and help further the reach of our research and education initiatives through individual and collaborative efforts with Academy researchers. Nominated by their colleagues and selected by the Board of Trustees, Academy Fellows remain members of the Fellowship for life.