About
France A. Córdova is President of the Science Philanthropy Alliance and an astrophysicist with extensive leadership experience across science, higher education and government. She previously served as Director of the U.S. National Science Foundation, President of Purdue University, Chancellor of the University of California, Riverside, and NASA’s Chief Scientist. Her scientific research has focused on observational and experimental astrophysics, including space-based research and instrumentation. She has also worked extensively on research strategy, scientific innovation, STEM education and broadening participation in science and engineering.