The U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) has announced the formation of the Office of Science Advisory Committee (SCAC), which will serve as a unified advisory body to provide independent advice on scientific and technical issues for the DOE’s Office of Science.
This move is part of the Department’s response to President Trump’s Executive Order Restoring Gold Standard Science, which aims to ensure that federal research is collaborative, transparent, and evidence-based. The goal is to strengthen public trust in science and modernize the Department’s scientific operations.
“The establishment of SCAC underscores the Department’s commitment to scientific integrity and the power of partnership,” said DOE Under Secretary for Science Darío Gil. “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.”
The members of SCAC were appointed by Under Secretary Gil and represent a range of expertise from academia, industry, science philanthropy, and national laboratories. The committee will advise on key priorities such as the Genesis Mission, scientific discovery, fusion energy, and quantum science.
Persis Drell, professor at Stanford University and former director of SLAC National Accelerator Laboratory, will chair SCAC. The committee will take over responsibilities from six previous advisory committees within the Office of Science, consolidating their functions into one coordinated group.
A complete list of all 21 SCAC members can be found on the DOE website.
