Dr. Alondra Nelson, Deputy Assistant to the President and Deputy Director for Science and Society, who is performing the duties of Director of the White House Office of Science and Technology Policy (OSTP), issued the following statement on the U.S. Senate’s confirmation of Dr. Arati Prabhakar as OSTP Director and Chief Advisor to the President for Science and Technology:

“The historic bipartisan confirmation of Dr. Arati Prabhakar is a testament to her sterling track record of leadership and innovation stewardship, as well as her extensive expertise in science and technology policy. We are thrilled to welcome her to OSTP and begin a bright new chapter.

Dr. Prabhakar was the first woman to lead the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST). Today, she again makes history as the first woman and person of color confirmed by the Senate to lead the White House Office of Science and Technology Policy.

Over the course of her career, Dr. Prabhakar’s leadership has propelled solutions to some of the most pressing problems facing American society. At the helm of NIST and the Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA), she demonstrated a rare ability to work across silos and sectors to forge consensus and deliver important accomplishments. As we move forward with our agenda of transformative investments in scientific research and development, an equitable STEM ecosystem, climate and energy solutions, competitiveness, and technological and economic security as a result of the Biden-Harris Administration’s landmark legislative achievements, we are fortunate to now benefit from her deep experience.

Dr. Prabhakar will ably continue our work of maximizing the benefits of science and technology to advance health, prosperity, security, environmental quality, and justice for all Americans. And we are heartened to know that her first priority will be people, and that she will continue to foster and support the talented and dedicated staff here at OSTP.

Our entire team looks forward to serving under Dr. Prabhakar’s inspired leadership and continuing to deliver on the President’s vision for the American people.”

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