Who We Are

Our mission is to support efforts that enable people to reimagine and expand their relationship with science.

Science Sandbox is where innovation comes to grow and expand.

It’s where people from all backgrounds can feel like they belong — where creativity thrives and science resonates.

Science Sandbox champions those seeking to empower others.

We believe science is a vital tool for making decisions that can have wide-ranging, positive effects throughout society, and we aim to center underrepresented perspectives that enrich the practice of science engagement.

We are an active, collaborative partner to our awardees.

From funding to mentorship and networking support to helping build awareness, Science Sandbox scaffolds efforts to innovate.

People

Chandni Ashra

Administrative Coordinator, Science, Society and Culture

Chandni Ashra joined the Science, Society and Culture team toward the end of 2023 as its administrative coordinator.

Peri Lund

Program Coordinator, Science, Society and Culture

As program coordinator for Science, Society and Culture, Peri Lund works on the strategic planning and execution of the division’s Presidential Lecture series, which aims to foster discourse, discovery and a sense of belonging among the broader New York research community.

Ivvet Modinou, M.Sc.

Senior Vice President, Science, Society and Culture

In her current role as the senior vice president of Science, Society and Culture, Ivvet Modinou leads public engagement for the Simons Foundation, including strategic oversight of Science Sandbox, a flagship grant-making program that seeks to inspire and engage those who do…

Elizabeth Simolke

Program Manager, Science, Society and Culture

Elizabeth Simolke joined the Simons Foundation in 2019 as the outreach coordinator for the President’s Office, and transitioned to the Science, Society and Culture team in 2021.

John Tracey

Program Director, Science, Society and Culture

As program director, John Tracey works with the vice president of Science, Society and Culture to develop and execute Science Sandbox’s funding strategy.

Kelsa Trom

Community Network Manager, Science, Society and Culture

Kelsa Trom is a community engagement and programs expert with a background that spans art and culture, media and design consulting.

Omar Vera

Program Specialist, Science, Society & Culture

Omar Vera joined the Science, Society and Culture team in the fall of 2021. He is responsible for assisting with Science, Society and Culture’s program development, including grant administration.

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Contact

ATTN: Science Sandbox
Simons Foundation
160 Fifth Avenue, 7th Floor
New York, New York 10010

Please note that Science Sandbox
does not accept unsolicited proposals.

General Inquiries: [email protected]
Press/communications: [email protected]