The position of Associate Director for Science in the National Museum of Natural History was established in 1989 to manage the Museum's scientific research programs. Daniel E. Appleman was appointed the first Associate Director for Science and served until 1993. Other incumbents included Anna K. Behrensmeyer, Acting Associate Director for Science, 1993-1995, David L. Pawson, 1995-1998, and Ross B. Simons, Acting Associate Director, 1998. The position was abolished in 1998, and its functions were assumed by the newly created Associate Director for Research and Collections.