Douglas Roberts: Frost Science CEO looks to heavens and community needs

As the newly appointed president and CEO of the Phillip and Patricia Frost Museum of Science (Frost Science), Dr. Douglas Roberts is bringing together scientific and technical expertise with contemporary learning method experiences to the museum.

Dr. Roberts was chosen after an extensive selection process began earlier this year. A leader with a wealth of experience in science education and research, he assumes his new role following his tenure as the museum’s vice president of science education and director of the Frost Planetarium since July 2022. He has also been serving as interim co-CEO since April.

With over two decades of expertise in connecting science education and academic research, Dr. Roberts has continually championed the critical role of science visualization and communication in advancing learning experiences. He has been involved in astrophysics research at the University of Illinois and Northwestern University, as well as scientific outreach through the Adler Planetarium in Chicago.

Most recently, he played a pivotal role in fortifying the education and technology efforts at the Fort Worth Museum of Science and History. During his tenure at Microsoft Research, Dr. Roberts led the WorldWide Telescope (WWT) project aimed at providing a free platform for people to explore the massive database of astronomical images acquired by the world’s most powerful telescopes.

Dr. Roberts’ appointment reflects Frost Science’s commitment to community engagement and elevating the standards of science education. His extensive background in both education and research positioned him to drive the institution’s mission, fostering an environment where science can come to life and inspire future generations of curious minds.

Although science education and public engagement take up most of his time, Dr. Roberts continues to be engaged in active research, using telescopes like the Very Large Array radio telescope and the Hubble Space Telescope to better understand the supermassive black hole at the center of the Milky Way galaxy and science visualization. Looking up at the stars still gives him a thrill and he says it is the next best thing to going to space.

“I am deeply honored and humbled to be entrusted with the position of president and CEO of Frost Science,” Dr. Roberts said. “We will explore new frontiers, empower lifelong learners and ensure that science education remains accessible and transformative for all.”

Dr. Roberts spoke with Miami Today reporter Abraham Galvan.

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