The Maria Mitchell Association (MMA) was founded in 1902 to preserve the legacy of Nantucket native astronomer, naturalist, librarian, and educator, Maria Mitchell (1818-1889). After she discovered a comet in 1847, Mitchell’s international fame led to many achievements and awards. She went on to become America’s first professional woman astronomer, the first female professor of astronomy in the US (at Vassar College), and the first woman inducted into the American Academy of Arts and Sciences. She inspired hundreds of young women to go into science fields during her long tenure at Vassar College. Maria Mitchell believed in “learning by doing” and today that philosophy is reflected in the MMA’s mission statement, programs, research projects, and other activities.

The MMA is a non-profit science and science education organization dedicated to creating of opportunities for all to develop a life-long passion for science through education, research, and first-hand exploration of the sky, land, and sea of Nantucket Island. The MMA campus includes multiple buildings across several sites on Nantucket. The seasonal Aquarium is on the waterfront and the year-round Natural Science Museum, historic Mitchell House, Research Center, and two observatories are a 10-minute walk away. Today, the MMA provides opportunities to engage in science learning and research for all by “learning-by-doing,” as was Maria Mitchell’s way of teaching. The MMA actively conducts research in astronomy, marine biology, and ecology.

The Maria Mitchell Association is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer. We do not discriminate based upon race, religion, color, national origin, gender (including pregnancy, childbirth, or related medical conditions), sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, age, status as a protected veteran, status as an individual with a disability, or other applicable legally protected characteristics. All employment is decided on the basis of qualifications, merit, and business need.