Samantha Sands

Education/Degree:

BS in Envrionmental Geology, University of Michigan, 2004
MS in Musuem & Field Studies, University of Colorado, 2006

Current Location: Aurora, CO

First Job Following Graduation: Education Programs Manager at Museum of the Earth

Areas of Expertise:

• Paleontology
• Museum Studies
• Science Education

Excited to talk to students about:

• Museum Studies
• Science Education
• Exploring careers in formal and informal education
• Undergraduate research opportunities (MRADS)
• Life after Ann Arbor.

Extended Bio

Samantha Sands is an education and science professional with more than 15 years of experience connecting people with earth and space sciences, geology, paleontology, and natural history. Her career began in museum education, where she developed public programs, teacher professional development, and exhibit-based learning experiences at the Paleontological Research Institution and Museum of the Earth and the Denver Museum of Nature & Science. At the Denver Museum, she led earth and space science programming, contributed to the $7.3 million Space Odyssey Reimagined project, and served as a lead educator for the Snowmastodon Project.

Samantha holds a B.S. in Environmental Geology from the University of Michigan and an M.S. in Museum and Field Studies, with an emphasis in Education and Paleontology, from the University of Colorado Boulder. Her work has included paleontology, geology, museum collections, informal science education, public engagement, and science communication.

During her time at the University of Michigan, Samantha conducted undergraduate research through the University Undergraduate Research program (UIR), now known as the Michigan Research and Discovery Scholars (MRADS) program. Her research focused on geoarchaeology, using evidence from prehistoric caves throughout Europe to reconstruct their depositional histories. She also worked as a docent and summer camp counselor at the then–Exhibit Museum of Natural History. These experiences brought together her interests in earth science, research, and education, and ultimately inspired her to pursue a career in museum education, with a focus on earth science.

Today, Samantha applies her deep background in science and education to curriculum development and educational leadership consulting. She brings together scientific expertise, educational strategy, project management, and a strong understanding of how to make complex ideas accessible and meaningful to diverse audiences.