California Academy of Sciences Big Bang Gala on April 24 to Explore Intersection of Science and Technology

SAN FRANCISCO, CA (April 16, 2025) — On Thursday, April 24, the California Academy of Sciences will celebrate the intersection of science and technology at its annual fundraising gala Big Bang and post-gala fête Party After Dark. Big Bang will feature keynote speaker and technology trailblazer Aza Raskin, co-founder of Earth Species Project, and Academy scientists in discussions about the role innovative technology will play in addressing environmental challenges and regenerating the natural world.

Trained as a mathematician and dark matter physicist, keynote speaker Aza Raskin boasts an impressive resume as a National Geographic Explorer and co-founder and president of Earth Species Project, an international nonprofit dedicated to using artificial intelligence (AI) to decode animal communication and transform how human beings relate to the rest of nature.

Raskin also co-founded the Center for Humane Technology, a nonprofit dedicated to promoting technology that supports mental well-being, encourages focus, and helps build healthier communities. Raskin was featured in AI and the Future of Us: An Oprah Winfrey Special discussing the impact of AI on human behavior and how it may evolve as technology progresses, and was a subject and architect of the Emmy-award winning documentary The Social Dilemma. He co-hosts the popular podcast Your Undivided Attention and co-chairs the World Economic Forum’s Global AI Counsel.

“San Francisco is a technology town, and our location in close proximity to Silicon Valley gives the Academy an invaluable opportunity to innovate in areas where science and technology intersect. The adoption of cutting-edge digital tools have enabled our scientists to carry out impactful conservation work across the globe, from digitally mapping of threatened coral reefs in Tonga to better understanding the effects of wildfire on biodiversity in California,” said Academy Executive Director Scott D. Sampson, PhD. “As we look to the future, AI is full of both promise and potential pitfalls, and our adoption of this new technology must be intentional and measured. I am especially excited to welcome ethical AI leader Aza Raskin as our Big Bang Gala keynote speaker this year. His insights and experiences will spark meaningful conversations about the role technology will play in advancing science and securing a thriving future for Earth and all of its inhabitants.”

Gala Cocktail Hour, Dinner, and Keynote Address

Guests will have the opportunity to learn how Academy scientists are leveraging technology to support global research and regeneration projects during a cocktail reception presented by Visa that will begin at 5:30 p.m. in the Piazza, featuring live music by DJ Celeste with violinist Allison Irvine and light appetizers.

At 6:30 p.m., a seated dinner in the museum’s Grand Hall will feature a sustainably sourced menu by McCalls.

At 7:30 p.m., guests will be welcomed into Morrison Planetarium where Academy executive director Scott D. Sampson, PhD, will share some highlights from the institution’s impactful work to regenerate the natural world. The keynote address will be given by Earth Species Project Co-founder and President Aza Raskin, who will touch on their work extending AI advances in human language to the non-human world, building on decades of bioacoustics and behavioral research revealing complex animal communication systems.

Party After Dark, 9 p.m. – midnight, VIP access starting at 8 p.m.

Following dinner, partygoers will be welcomed for the renowned post-gala bash and official San Francisco Climate Week closing night event Party After Dark, featuring tasty bites, open bars with craft cocktails, a hidden speakeasy, and entertainment throughout the night. High-energy music will be performed by DJ D Sharp, the official DJ of the Golden State Warriors, who is known for electrifying sets that span genres and continents. The VIP Lounge will also feature a live performance by DJ Celeste accompanied by violinist Allison Irvine. Celeste is a pioneer in both live and virtual reality performances, dynamically blending high-energy house, hip-hop, and eclectic beats.

Party After Dark guests will also have the opportunity to hear from some of the female pioneers working in AI who are transforming the industry through innovation, research, and advocacy. The engaging panel conversation Women in AI: Shaping the Future of Artificial Intelligence will take place in Morrison Planetarium at 10 p.m. Moderated by Academy senior producer of immersive media Cheryl Vanderbilt, the panel features Academy trustee and Danaher vice president of AI strategy and operation Kian Beyzavi; AI4Nomads CEO and founder Susanna Raj; and Autodesk senior principal research scientist Ye Wang.

Big Bang Event Chair and Autodesk President and CEO Andrew Anagnost, PhD, invites guests to attend in smart, sleek, and stylish attire. Big Bang is generously supported by Presenting Sponsor Autodesk.

Big Bang is an annual fundraising event in support of the Academy’s mission to regenerate the natural world through science, learning, and collaboration. Big Bang tickets can be purchased online and Party After Dark tickets can be purchased online or over the phone at (415) 379-5411.

Photos from previous Big Bang Galas are available for use in preview features, and photos from this year’s gala will be shared immediately after the event:

• Photos of previous Big Bang Galas by California Academy of Sciences
• Photos by Drew Altizer from Big Bang Gala 2024