Minister Rodriguez announces new Director of the Canadian Museum of Nature

GATINEAU, July 5, 2022

The Minister of Canadian Heritage, Pablo Rodriguez, today announced the appointment of Dr. Danika Louise Goosney of Ottawa as Director and Chief Executive Officer of the Canadian Museum of Nature for a term of five years, effective September 1, 2022. This appointment is the result of a rigorous, open, transparent, and merit-based Governor in Council selection process.

Dr. Goosney is currently the Vice-President of the Research, Grants and Scholarships Directorate at the Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council of Canada (NSERC). Prior to joining NSERC in 2019, she was the Associate Vice-President, Tri-agency Institutional Programs Secretariat, at the Social Sciences and Humanities Research Council. Dr. Goosney is recognized nationally as a leader on equity, diversity, and inclusion in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics. She is a strong advocate for open science, science literacy, and combating scientific misinformation. She is also a passionate mentor for students and postdoctoral fellows looking to pursue careers in science policy and research administration.

A national museum in the Canadian Heritage Portfolio, the Canadian Museum of Nature is Canada's museum of natural history and natural sciences. Its role is to increase interest in, knowledge of, and appreciation and respect for our natural environment, throughout Canada and internationally. Dr. Goosney’s experience, passion, and expertise will undoubtedly assist the Museum in continuing to fulfil its important mandate.

The Government of Canada would like to take this opportunity to thank Margaret (Meg) Beckel for her 11 years of service as Director and Chief Executive Officer of the Canadian Museum of Nature from 2011 to 2022. Her leadership and vast knowledge of arts, culture, and heritage have greatly benefited the institution. She leaves behind a lasting legacy of excellence and will be missed.