The U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) has announced the chair and members of its newly formed Office of Science Advisory Committee (SCAC). This committee will offer independent guidance on scientific and technical matters for the DOE’s Office of Science.
The creation of SCAC is part of the Department’s response to President Trump’s Executive Order Restoring Gold Standard Science, which aims to make federal research more collaborative, transparent, and evidence-based in order to strengthen public trust. The DOE intends for SCAC to provide expert advice that will help set priorities, improve coordination, and address broad research challenges within the Office of Science.
DOE Under Secretary for Science Darío Gil stated, “The establishment of SCAC underscores the Department’s commitment to scientific integrity and the power of partnership. By bringing together leading minds from diverse institutions, we’re forging a collaborative framework that will not only enhance our scientific endeavors but also accelerate the translation of fundamental research into tangible benefits for the American people. This committee exemplifies how shared vision and collective expertise are essential for navigating the complex scientific landscape of today and tomorrow.”
Members appointed by Under Secretary Gil include leaders from academia, industry, philanthropic organizations supporting science, and National Laboratories managed by DOE. According to the Department, SCAC will help adapt to rapid changes in research fields and tackle interdisciplinary issues efficiently. The committee is expected to advise on major initiatives such as fusion energy research, quantum science development, new scientific discovery programs, and projects like the Genesis Mission.
Persis Drell has been named as chair of SCAC. Drell is a professor at Stanford University specializing in materials science and engineering as well as physics; she previously served as Stanford’s provost and directed SLAC National Accelerator Laboratory.
SCAC will consolidate responsibilities from six previous discretionary advisory committees under one body. All existing duties held by those committees will now be handled by SCAC so there is a single source for independent expert input on Office-wide issues. The full list of 21 members can be found through official DOE channels.
