Elizabeth Musteen is the Acting Assistant Director of Exhibits at the Smithsonian’s National Museum of Natural History, where she leads the Museum’s vibrant exhibitions program. She oversees all aspects of exhibit planning, fabrication, and project management—guiding multiple simultaneous projects from concept to installation. Working closely with colleagues across departments, Elizabeth ensures that each exhibition delivers a meaningful and enduring experience for millions of visitors each year.
In her day job, Elizabeth serves as Chief of Exhibits Production, where she directs the in-house creation and maintenance of exhibitions, blending technical precision with creative storytelling. Her collaborative approach and cross-disciplinary insight also earned her a place on the Museum’s Strategic Planning Team, helping shape long-term institutional goals.
Previously, as the Senior Project Manager, she led the design and construction of some of the Museum’s most iconic permanent exhibitions. Her leadership was instrumental in the development of the 23,000-square-foot Sant Ocean Hall, the multi-award-winning Kenneth E. Behring Family Hall of Mammals, the acclaimed Janet Annenberg Hooker Hall of Geology, Gems and Minerals, and the immersive Butterflies and Plants: Partners in Evolution exhibit, which includes the live Butterfly Pavilion.
Before joining the Smithsonian, Elizabeth worked with the National Institute for Conservation of Cultural Property, advocating for small museums and helping them secure funding for conservation and architectural assessments. She holds a Master’s degree in Museum Studies and a Bachelor’s in History and Art History.
