Ellen Stofan is the under secretary for Science and Research at the Smithsonian Institution, where she oversees the Institution’s science research centers as well as the National Air and Space Museum, the National Museum of Natural History, the National Zoo and Conservation Biology Institute, and the Smithsonian Libraries and Archives. Her work focuses on advancing the Institution’s research on life on a sustainable planet and unlocking the mysteries of the universe. Previously, she served as the John and Adrienne Mars director of the National Air and Space Museum (2018–2021), leading the launch of its seven-year renovation and the landmark 50th anniversary celebration of the Apollo 11 moon landing.

Before joining the Smithsonian, Stofan spent more than 25 years in space-related organizations and built a distinguished career in planetary geology, including serving as NASA’s chief scientist from 2013–2016. She holds a bachelor’s degree in geology from the College of William & Mary and master’s and doctoral degrees from Brown University. Widely published, she has received numerous honors, including the Presidential Early Career Award for Scientists and Engineers, the NASA Distinguished Service Medal, and recognition by CNN as one of its “Extraordinary People of 2014.”