WASHINGTON — The National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine today announced the appointment of Tina Bahadori to lead the Center for Advancing Science and Technology; Elizabeth Eide to lead the Center for Health, People, and Places; and Vaughan Turekian to lead the Office of International Networks, Collaboration, and Security. These appointments are part of the next phase of the recently announced restructuring of the organization’s program divisions, which perform the bulk of the National Academies’ work to inform public policy through evidence-informed advice.

Bahadori is currently executive director of the National Academies’ Division on Engineering and Physical Sciences. Since joining the organization in 2020, Bahadori has advanced interdisciplinary initiatives drawing on her previous leadership roles at the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, where she directed major research programs in human and environmental health, chemical safety, sustainability, and risk assessment. Her earlier career in the private sector deepened her perspectives on the intersection of science, technology, and policy.  

Since Eide began at the National Academies in 2005, she has led influential work on Earth systems, natural resources, water, and environmental resilience. Eide has a long track record of success in sponsor engagement, cross-unit collaboration, and complex program management, as well as commitment to integrative, transdisciplinary science. She is currently executive director of the Division on Earth and Life Studies.  

Turekian is currently executive director of the National Academies’ Policy and Global Affairs Division. A former science and technology advisor to the U.S. secretary of state, Turekian brings extensive experience in international science policy and diplomacy. His leadership at the State Department and the American Association for the Advancement of Science underscores a career focused on building global partnerships and advancing science and technology in service of security, development, and cooperation.  

“As our restructuring is moving into its next phase, I am pleased that these newly appointed leaders bring a diverse mix of professional experience and demonstrated ability to work across disciplines to advance our mission,” said Gregory H. Symmes, executive officer of the National Research Council — the National Academies’ operating arm, which houses the program divisions — and chief operating officer of the National Academy of Sciences. “These executive directors are well positioned to drive innovation, foster collaboration, provide both continuity and leadership, and help shape the future of our organization.”  

The Gulf Research Program will remain under the leadership of Lauren Alexander Augustine, and Victoria Sheehan will continue to lead the Transportation Research Board. The National Academies will name leadership appointments for the new Office of Strategy and Engagement and Office of Fellowships at a later date.  

The National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine form a private, nonprofit institution that provides independent, objective analysis and advice to the nation to solve complex problems and inform public policy decisions related to science, engineering, and medicine. The National Academies operate under an 1863 congressional charter to the National Academy of Sciences, signed by President Lincoln.  

Contact: Dana Korsen, Director of Media Relations Office of News and Public Information National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine 202-334-2138; news@nas.edu