JSPG announces Laurie Zabala as the 5th Chief Executive Officer and Managing Publisher

Earlier today, the Journal of Science Policy & Governance (JSPG) announced the appointment of Laurie Zabala as its fifth Chief Executive Officer and Managing Publisher, effective January 30, 2026. Zabala brings experience in science policy, program management, and building strategic partnerships to lead JSPG into its next chapter of growth and impact.

Zabala currently serves as Associate Director of Science Initiatives and Outreach at Research!America, where she leads the organization’s early career civic science programs and manages the Science CEO Group. In her first year at Research!America, she implemented an outreach strategy that generated a record-setting 116% increase in applications to the Civic Engagement Microgrant program. Previously, she provided policy and administrative support at the American Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS), where she developed systems to track programmatic impact, among other roles.

With dual master’s degrees in Integrative Neuroscience from Georgetown University and International Relations from Hult International Business School, Zabala combines scientific expertise with strategic thinking. She is a founding member of the Vannevar Group, a policy and advocacy organization advancing evidence-based national science policy solutions and currently serves on its Board.

“Laurie embodies the vision and entrepreneurial spirit that JSPG needs at this pivotal moment,” said Julianne McCall, outgoing CEO of JSPG and CEO of the California Council on Science and Technology. “Her track record of building programs that amplify early-career voices, coupled with her strategic approach to partnerships and her commitment to broadening participation in science and technology policy, makes her the ideal leader to expand our impact. I’m confident that under her leadership, JSPG will continue to empower the next generation of science policy decision-makers through substantive research and meaningful engagement.”

“We are thrilled to welcome Laurie as JSPG’s new DEO,” said Erin Heath, JSPG Board Chair and Director of Federal Relations at AAAS. “Her vision for developing sustainable funding strategies and creating strategic partnerships that elevate underrepresented voices aligns perfectly with JSPG’s mission. Laurie’s demonstrated ability to grow programs, mentor emerging professionals, and convene diverse stakeholders will be invaluable as we work to expand JSPG’s reach and influence in the science and technology policy community.”

As CEO, Zabala will oversee all aspects of JSPG’s operations, communications, outreach, and international engagement activities. Her strategic plan involves developing comprehensive fundraising strategies, strengthening JSPG’s brand identity, and forging partnerships that broaden participation in science policy.

JSPG, founded in 2012, serves as the premier platform for early-career researchers to publish science policy analysis and engage with pressing policy challenges. The organization publishes peer-reviewed articles, hosts convenings, and provides professional development opportunities for the next generation of science policy leaders.

Zabala began her two-year term on January 30th, working closely with JSPG’s Governing Board, Advisory Board, fellow volunteer staff, and editorial leadership to advance the organization’s mission of empowering voices and shaping policy.

Media Contact: Elizabeth DiLoreto, JSPG’s Director of Public Affairs and Communications ediloreto@sciencepolicyjournal.org

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Journal of Science Policy and Governance

The Journal of Science Policy & Governance (JSPG) is a nonprofit organization that provides early-career researchers with opportunities to publish science policy research, develop professional skills, and engage with the science policy community. Through its open-access journal, events, and programs, JSPG empowers the next generation of science and technology policy decision-makers.