On Thursday, the United States Senate confirmed President Biden’s nominee for White House Office of Science and Technology Policy (OSTP) Director. Dr. Prabhakar will serve as the president’s top advisor on science and technology issues in this role. This confirmation makes Dr. Prabhakar the first person of color and the first woman to lead the OSTP in its nearly 50-year history.
Dr. Prabhakar is a highly qualified nominee who devoted her career to public service and scientific research. She served as the head of the Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA) from 2012 to 2017. During her time at DARPA, she oversaw the development of innovative technologies that have had a profound impact on our national security.
She has also served as a commissioner on the President’s Commission on Enhancing National Cybersecurity. In this role, she provided advice on improving our nation’s cybersecurity posture in the face of evolving threats.
Dr. Prabhakar’s extensive experience in the public and private sectors makes her uniquely qualified to lead the OSTP. She will be a valuable asset to the Biden Administration as they work to tackle the many challenges we face as a nation.
The confirmation of Dr. Prabhakar is a victory for diversity and inclusion in the sciences. It is also a reminder that we must continue investing in science and technology to remain competitive in the global economy. The OSTP plays a vital role in coordinating our nation’s science and technology policy, and I am confident that Dr. Prabhakar will be an excellent leader for the office.
Besides her public service, Dr. Prabhakar is also a renowned scientist. She worked in Silicon Valley during the early days of the personal computer revolution. She also founded two companies, including a venture-backed startup. Her experience in the private sector will be invaluable as she works to promote innovation and entrepreneurship in the OSTP.
Dil Bole Oberoi
