Laurie Fink

Laurie Fink is an accomplished leader in the field of science and museum education, currently serving as the William D. Wells Chair of Science and Senior Director of the Center for Research and Collections at the Science Museum of Minnesota since January 2001. Fink oversees a diverse team of over 30 professionals across five departments, including Anthropology, Biology, Collection Stewardship, Paleontology, and Water and Climate Change. Prior roles at the museum include Vice President of Science, where Fink managed nearly 30 museum staff focused on research and collection care, and Director of Science Programs, leading research initiatives on the museum's collections. Earlier experience includes a position as Program Director for Human Biology, where Fink successfully secured grants for exhibitions and programming, such as the "Wonder Years" exhibit on early brain development. Academic credentials include a Bachelor of Science in Chemistry and a Ph.D. in Pharmacology, both from the University of Minnesota, complemented by leadership training from the Museum Leadership Institute.