Alejandro de Vera Hernández Appointed New Director of Tenerife’s Museum of Natural Sciences
Alejandro de Vera Hernández has been appointed as the new director of the Museum of Natural Sciences of Tenerife, bringing nearly two decades of institutional experience and a background in marine biology to the role.
The Museum of Natural Sciences of Tenerife, part of the Museum of Nature and Archaeology (MUNA) complex, has appointed a new director to ensure stability and continuity at one of the Canary Islands' most important scientific institutions. Alejandro de Vera Hernández officially took on the role on April 1, following his appointment by the Autonomous Organism of Museums and Centers.
The Tenerife Island Council chose to fill the position through an internal promotion following the retirement of the previous director. José Carlos Acha, the Minister of Culture, Museums, and Sports, stated that De Vera was selected for his deep understanding of the museum’s scientific and administrative operations, as well as his strong academic background.
De Vera holds a doctorate in biology from the University of La Laguna and has spent 18 years working at the museum, most recently as a curator in the Department of Marine Biology. His research focuses on Macaronesian biodiversity and plankton. Beyond his scientific work—which includes discovering new species and leading international projects—he brings extensive experience in exhibition curation, research management, and public outreach.
As science museums across Spain look to balance academic research with public engagement and environmental advocacy, De Vera’s background is a strategic asset for MUNA. His expertise in monitoring human impact on marine environments, such as plastic pollution and the conservation of fishing stocks, positions the museum to address the sustainability challenges facing the archipelago. Through this appointment, the island council aims to keep the museum a leading resource for both the scientific community and the public, while keeping the preservation of the Canary Islands' natural heritage at the heart of its mission.