Welcome Gabriela!

Executive Director

ScienceWorks Hands-on Museum is thrilled to announce the appointment of Dr. Gabriela Chavarria as its new Executive Director. With over 30 years of experience in the scientific community, she brings extensive expertise in leadership, program development, and public policy.

Gabriela currently serves as the Executive Director of the Burke Museum of Natural History and Culture in Seattle, Washington, where she has led initiatives fostering community engagement and inclusivity. She has also served as Vice President and Chief Curator at the Denver Museum of Nature & Science, driving innovative science programs. A passionate advocate for native pollinator conservation–especially bumblebees–Gabriela has conducted research in over 30 countries and holds a Ph.D. in Biology from Harvard University.

Under her leadership, ScienceWorks will continue to inspire curiosity through hands-on scientific exploration, while fostering creative thinking and problem-solving. Gabriela shares our commitment to inclusivity and collaboration, strengthening partnerships within the community and beyond.

To celebrate this exciting transition, ScienceWorks will host a community meet-and-greet during the 2025 Earth Day event at the museum from 3:30 to 7:00 PM. Visitors will have the opportunity to connect with Gabriela and learn more about her vision for the museum’s future.



We are thrilled to welcome Dr. Gabriela Chavarria as our new Executive Director! We look forward to the incredible innovations she will bring to ScienceWorks and the vibrant future she’ll help create. Join us in celebrating this exciting new chapter!