Indian American Impact on President Biden’s Intent to Nominate Dr. Arati Prabhakar as White House Science Advisor

Washington D.C. —  Today, President Biden announced his intent to nominate Dr. Arati Prabhakar to serve as Director of the Office of Science and Technology Policy (OSTP). Once confirmed, Dr. Prabhakar will serve as Assistant to the President for Science and Technology, as the President’s Chief Advisor for Science and Technology, as a member of the President’s Cabinet, and as co-chair of the President’s Council of Advisors on Science and Technology.

Once confirmed, Dr. Prabhakar will make history as the first woman, immigrant or person of color nominated to serve as Senate-confirmed director of OSTP. She will also join Vice President Kamala Harris and U.S. Trade Representative Katherine Tai as the third Asian American, Native Hawaiian, or Pacific islander to serve in the President’s Cabinet.

Neil Makhija, Executive Director of Indian American Impact, shared the following statement: 

“Indian American Impact is thrilled to learn that President Biden intends to nominate Dr. Arati Prabhakar as Director of the Office of Science and Technology Policy (OSTP). We applaud the President for his historic decision, which uplifts not only the exceptionally qualified Dr. Prabhakar, but all South Asians and Asian Americans who aspire to reach new heights and become leaders within public service and the scientific community.”

“We have no doubt that Dr. Prabhakar, the first woman, Asian American and immigrant to serve as OSTP Director, will bring brilliance, determination and diverse leadership to her historic post as a member of the President’s Cabinet.”

“We look forward to celebrating her official nomination and confirmation. Congratulations, Dr. Prabhakar! “

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