The U.S. Senate confirmed the appointment of Arati Prabhakar, PhD, as director of the White House Office of Science and Technology Policy (OSTP) and chief advisor to the president for science and technology in September 2022, making her the first woman and person of color confirmed to lead OSTP.

“The historic bipartisan confirmation of 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,” Alondra Nelson, PhD, deputy assistant to the president and OSTP deputy director for science and society, said. “We are thrilled to welcome her to OSTP and begin a bright new chapter.”

Prabhakar was also the first woman to lead the National Institute of Standards and Technology and has used her background in engineering and applied physics for other public service as director of the Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency.

“Prabhakar will ably continue our office’s work of maximizing the benefits of science and technology to advance health, prosperity, security, environmental quality, and justice for all Americans,” Nelson said. “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.”