Professor Dava Newman will step down as director of the MIT Media Lab at the end of this academic year, after four years of dedication and transformation in the life of the Lab.

During her tenure, she helped bring organizational, cultural, and financial stability, launched several timely research initiatives—in women’s health, climate sustainability, and AI, and strengthened bridges between MIT and the Lab. Newman will take a sabbatical in fall 2025 before returning to AeroAstro, where she will continue as faculty advisor and research collaborator on the Media Lab’s Women’s Health program and the Space Exploration Initiative. A new faculty director is expected to be appointed by April 30.

“It’s been an honor to serve as director and work with such an incredible community. While I’m stepping down, I’m happy to be staying closely involved—leading Future Worlds and sAIpien, and collaborating on WHx and the Space Exploration Initiative,” said Professor Newman.