During a recent talk at MIT, Arati Prabhakar, the White House science advisor and director of the Office of Science and Technology Policy (OSTP), expressed her strong belief in the capabilities of U.S. science and technology to tackle pressing national issues. Emphasizing the purpose of innovation, she stated, “Science and technology are the keys to unlocking possibilities that allow us to achieve our lofty aspirations as a nation.” Prabhakar underscored that the ambitions currently facing the United States are unparalleled and significant.
In her discussion, Prabhakar touched on three pivotal areas of focus for science and technology advancement: cancer prevention, climate change, and artificial intelligence (AI). She highlighted the critical need for the U.S. to maintain its global leadership in research across various scientific domains, which she referred to as “one of America’s longstanding strengths.” Reflecting on the post-World War II era, she remarked, “Since then, we have committed to basic research, investing in our universities’ capabilities, which has given us unmatched capacity in fundamental research—a standing we must preserve.”
Prabhakar noted advancements in translating basic research into commercial technology, stating, “We’ve improved how we commercialize technologies emerging from our research initiatives. When there’s a clear potential for profit and growth, capital flows.” Under the Biden administration, there has been a concerted effort to strengthen collaboration between the public and private sectors, aimed at accelerating the transition of technology from labs to markets.
The event drew a significant audience of nearly 300 attendees at MIT’s Wong Auditorium, facilitated by the Manufacturing@MIT Working Group. Suzanne Berger, an Institute Professor and authority on the innovation economy, and Nergis Mavalvala, dean of the School of Science and an astrophysicist known for her work in gravitational-wave detection, provided introductory remarks. Berger expressed her pride in the 2015 discovery of gravitational waves, crediting U.S. government support with enabling such groundbreaking research. Mavalvala highlighted the honor of hosting Prabhakar, acknowledging the integral role that universities play in fortifying the country’s science and technology sectors.
Arati Prabhakar boasts a rich background in both governmental and private sectors. Since October 2022, she has been serving as OSTP director and co-chair of the President’s Council of Advisors on Science and Technology (PCAST). Her prior roles include leading the Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA) from 2012 to 2017 and directing the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) from 1993 to 1997. With executive experience at Raychem and Interval Research, in addition to a decade at U.S. Venture Partners, Prabhakar holds degrees in electrical engineering and applied physics from Texas Tech University and Caltech.
Prabhakar took the opportunity to discuss significant health initiatives, particularly the Biden administration’s “Cancer Moonshot” program, which aims to reduce the cancer death rate by 50% over the next quarter-century. This initiative includes multifaceted approaches, such as enhancing healthcare delivery, improving cancer detection methods, and minimizing public exposure to carcinogens. She envisioned a future where good health is taken for granted, allowing individuals to focus on their lives.
Regarding artificial intelligence, Prabhakar acknowledged both its transformative potential and the challenges it poses. She stated, “We need to take proactive measures to ensure that AI technology empowers people and enhances their ability to earn more.” On the subject of climate change, she stressed the importance of collective responsibility, asserting, “We know the climate will change, but the severity of those changes is within our control. We can create a better future.”
Prabhakar pointed to the bipartisan infrastructure bill signed in 2021 and the Inflation Reduction Act as critical milestones in the U.S. commitment to combating climate change. She remarked, “Together, these represent the most substantial investment in clean energy transition the world has ever seen, instilling a sense of hope where there once seemed to be despair.”
After her address, Prabhakar participated in a panel discussion with the co-presidents of the MIT Energy and Climate Club: Laurentiu Anton, Rosie Keller, and Thomas Lee. When prompted about the current decline in public trust in science, she offered nuanced insights. “Don’t take it personally,” she advised, noting that the erosion of public confidence in science is not as severe when compared to other institutions.
Prabhakar also utilized lighthearted humor, mentioning that “scientist” remains a desirable profession for marriage partners, reflecting positively on the public perception of the scientific community. She emphasized that rather than lecturing the public, scientists should clearly and humbly communicate established facts, while acknowledging their continued pursuit of knowledge. “Facts can help people make informed decisions about their future,” she added.
Throughout her tenure at the White House, Prabhakar has been guided by a fundamental notion often articulated by President Biden: America is characterized by ‘possibilities.’ She expressed her enthusiasm for this perspective, framing scientific and technological advancement as integral to creating new possibilities for society.
In conclusion, Prabhakar underscored the enduring responsibility of scientists and technologists to work collaboratively and innovatively, ensuring that their efforts generate opportunities for all and contribute to the betterment of society. “This privilege we have in our work comes with a responsibility,” she asserted, emphasizing the importance of fostering growth and opportunity for every individual in the United States.
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