The Rockefeller University Executive and Leadership Team

July, 2026

Leadership Overview

The Rockefeller University has 4 executives leading key functions including strategy, operations, and investment management.

Dedicated to advancing scientific discovery, The Rockefeller University fosters an environment of rigorous inquiry and collaboration to address fundamental questions in biology and medicine, driving progress in human health.

Leadership Roles at The Rockefeller University

  • Managing Director, Investments & Chief Operating Officer - Devin Brosseau
  • President - Michael Young
  • President - Richard Lifton
  • President - Esther Lederberg
  • Devin Brosseau - Managing Director, Investments & Chief Operating Officer

    Devin Brosseau, the Managing Director, Investments & Chief Operating Officer at The Rockefeller University, directs the institution's financial operations and investment strategies. Overseeing the university's fiscal health, Brosseau ensures robust resource allocation to support cutting-edge biomedical research and academic programs. This leadership role involves managing endowments, optimizing investment portfolios, and developing long-term financial plans to sustain the university's mission. By driving operational efficiencies across administrative functions, Devin Brosseau enhances the university's capacity for groundbreaking scientific endeavors. The Chief Operating Officer's responsibilities extend to managing facilities, IT infrastructure, and human resources, ensuring a seamless operational environment conducive to research excellence. This executive's strategic financial oversight is critical for maintaining The Rockefeller University's position as a leader in biomedical innovation.

    Michael Young - President

    Michael Young, the President at The Rockefeller University, sets the overarching strategic direction for the institution's biomedical research and graduate education. Leading the university's academic and scientific vision, Young champions an environment that fosters groundbreaking discoveries and interdisciplinary collaboration. This executive role involves guiding faculty recruitment, resource allocation for research initiatives, and fostering partnerships that advance scientific understanding. By directing the university's mission, Michael Young ensures The Rockefeller University remains at the forefront of biological and medical innovation. The President's responsibilities include engaging with external stakeholders, philanthropic organizations, and government bodies to secure support for the university's critical work. Young's leadership is pivotal in advancing the institution's commitment to solving complex health challenges through rigorous scientific inquiry.

    Richard Lifton - President

    Richard Lifton, the President at The Rockefeller University, guides the institution's strategic vision and commitment to pioneering biomedical research. Leading the university's academic and scientific endeavors, Lifton cultivates an environment where fundamental biological questions are explored with rigor and innovation. This executive position involves overseeing faculty development, research priorities, and the strategic deployment of resources to accelerate scientific breakthroughs. By driving the university's core mission, Richard Lifton ensures The Rockefeller University continues to be a global leader in understanding and treating disease. The President's purview includes fostering collaborations across scientific disciplines and with external research entities to maximize impact. Lifton's leadership is essential in advancing the university's dedication to translating scientific discoveries into tangible improvements in human health.

    Esther Lederberg - President

    Esther Lederberg, the President at The Rockefeller University, directs the institution's strategic trajectory and its dedication to advancing biomedical science. Leading the university's academic mission, Lederberg fosters an environment that encourages bold scientific exploration and the pursuit of knowledge in biology and medicine. This executive role encompasses guiding research initiatives, supporting faculty excellence, and ensuring the effective allocation of institutional resources. By championing the university's core objectives, Esther Lederberg reinforces The Rockefeller University's standing as a premier center for scientific discovery. The President's responsibilities include cultivating a culture of innovation and collaboration among researchers and students. Lederberg's strategic oversight is fundamental to the university's ongoing efforts to unravel complex biological mechanisms and improve global health outcomes.

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    Frequently Asked Questions Regarding The Rockefeller University Top Executives and Leadership Team

    Who leads The Rockefeller University?
    The Rockefeller University is led by Devin Brosseau (Managing Director, Investments & Chief Operating Officer), along with executives such as Michael Young (President) and Richard Lifton (President).
    Who is part of The Rockefeller University’s executive team?
    The executive team of The Rockefeller University includes leaders such as Devin Brosseau (Managing Director, Investments & Chief Operating Officer), Michael Young (President), Richard Lifton (President) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does The Rockefeller University have?
    The Rockefeller University has 4 executives leading key business areas.
    What roles are included in The Rockefeller University’s leadership team?
    The leadership team of The Rockefeller University includes roles such as Managing Director, Investments & Chief Operating Officer, President, President, President.