Linda Conlon, CEO of the International Centre for Life in Newcastle and chair of the Association of Science and Technology Centers (ASTC) has announced the appointment of Cristin Dorgelo as the new president and CEO of the Association. Dorgelo is a former White House science and technology chief of staff.

Conlon said: “Cristin shares our belief that science centres and museums provide neutral spaces where people can make sense of a world that is being shaped increasingly by rapid developments in science and technology.”

Dorgelo, who worked at the Office of Science and Technology Policy under the science advisor to then-president Barack Obama from 2014 to January 2017, takes the reins from current ASTC interim CEO Gillian Thomas. She will be overseeing the organisation, which has around 670 members in the science communication field.

“At this critical time for science, I’m thrilled to lead ASTC in supporting the vital work of its global membership,” she said. “These institutions provide welcoming, inclusive environments for millions of children and adults; helping them to experience wonder and curiosity and be inspired by the contribution that science and technology can make in solving tough societal challenges.”

Dorgelo’s career has focused on bringing science to a wider audience, especially on the Obama administration’s Grand Challenges initiative, which invited businesses, universities and research facilities to use science, technology, and innovation to solve major problems.

Before this, she worked with the XPRIZE Foundation, again encouraging open-innovation with public competition and incentives. Those contests might include designing fuel-efficient transportation, using technology to respond to humanitarian crises or finding new ways to clean oceans or travel to space.

“This global network can help individuals recognise the part they play in building and shaping the future,” Dorgelo said. “I look forward to hearing ideas from ASTC members and to collaborating with the broader science and technology community.”

Dorgelo will attend the ASTC Annual Conference in San Jose, California, from 21 to 24 October, and officially takes over in January 2018.