Today was my first official day as director of the Western Science Center. As with most new jobs, the first day was somewhat hectic, and mostly filled with paperwork.In addition to the usual tax and payroll-related paperwork, starting a new job in an academic institution like a museum also means setting up computer access and email accounts. In my case, it also means reviewing lots of museum policy documents, such as collections and ethics policies, board procedures, and budget sheets.I did get out of my office for awhile, though, for a last look at the Beatles exhibit (the exhibit closed yesterday, but we've only just started to remove it). I also took time to get to know some of the staff, and to look at some of the lab facilities. And, of course, I couldn't let my first day in the Valley of the Mastodons pass without looking at some mastodon remains:
