Press Center

Browse the latest news from the Academy’s Press Office.

Featured Releases

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Big Bang Gala speakers

Top row (from left): Hilda C. Heine, Ed.D.; Rayna Bell, PhD; Lauren Esposito, PhD. Bottom row (from left): Marie Christina Kolo; Selina N. Leem; Madame Gandhi.

California Academy of Sciences’ Big Bang Gala Spotlights Island Biodiversity Conservation

Annual fundraiser explores the Academy’s Islands 2030 initiative to reverse island biodiversity loss.

Academy Day face painting
California Academy of Sciences to Celebrate 170-Year Anniversary with First-ever Academy Day April 4

Festive day of philanthropy to feature special science fair, specimens, prizes, and more.

Research divers exploring coral reefs in Roatán, Honduras
Study shows how biodiversity of coral reefs around the world changes with depth

Differences between shallow and mesophotic reefs stress the importance of expanding marine protections.

A mostly empty intersection in San Francisco during the COVID-19 pandemic quarantine
What if California didn’t close down during the pandemic?

Academy researchers develop mathematical model to help experts evaluate—and design—future pandemic responses

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Releases

A recreation of the seafloor during the Permian period.
Science & Sustainability
New study reveals biodiversity loss drove ecological collapse after the “Great Dying”
February 23, 2023

Researchers turn to ancient extinction event to gain insights into modern biodiversity crisis.

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Academy announces promotion of Leah Van der Mei to COO.

As the Chief Operating Officer and Head of Government Affairs, Van der Mei is responsible for infrastructure, guest and building operations, and technology for the Academy.

Leadership
California Academy of Sciences Promotes Leah Van der Mei to Chief Operating Officer and Head of Government Affairs
February 9, 2023

Academy’s first Black COO brings track record expanding inclusion.

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Artist Walter Kitundu poses as shopkeeper with his installation Leo na Kesho, in the Academy's African Hall.

Artist Walter Kitundu poses as shopkeeper with his installation Leo na Kesho, in the Academy's African Hall.

Exhibits
Artist Walter Kitundu brings modern day Tanzania to California Academy of Sciences’ African Hall with immersive installation Leo na Kesho (today and tomorrow)
February 2, 2023

Exhibit interrupts a familiar presentation of biodiversity, injects a view into modern, urban life in Africa.

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Academy Curator of Ichthyology Luiz Rocha
Science & Sustainability
Academy Curator Luiz Rocha elected as 2022 AAAS Fellow
January 31, 2023

Prestigious fellowship recognizes extraordinary achievements in the academic and social advancement of science.

Gecko, Bavayia jourdani
Science & Sustainability
Academy scientists describe 146 new species in 2022
December 20, 2022

From mountain peaks to coral reefs, these new discoveries grow Earth's tree of life.

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California Academy of Sciences museum building in Golden Gate Park
Leadership, Science & Sustainability
California Academy of Sciences Statement on the Historic Biodiversity Deal Agreed Upon at COP15
December 20, 2022

Academy Executive Director Scott Sampson, PhD, shares his thoughts on the outcome of the major conference.

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A man rides his bike through a baobab forest in Madagascar

A man rides his bike through an iconic baobab forest in Madagascar. (Brian Fisher © California Academy of Sciences)

Science & Sustainability
New research prompts urgent call from scientists to protect Madagascar’s unique biodiversity
December 2, 2022

Experts from more than 50 organizations, including the Academy, review current state of biodiversity on island.

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Cactus bees in a mating ball

"Bee Balling" by photographer Karine Aigner, BigPicture 2022 Grand Prize Winner

Exhibits, Programs & Events
BigPicture: Natural World Photography Competition now open
December 1, 2022

World-renowned international photo competition awards awe-inspiring wildlife and conservation images.

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