US Biden nominates scientist Arti Prabhakar as top science advisor

Washington: Leading Indian- American scientist Dr Arti Prabhakar (In pic) has been nominated by Joe Biden as a top science advisor to the US President, a decision hailed by the White House and the Indian-American community as “historic.”

If confirmed by the Senate, Dr Prabhakar would make history as the first woman, immigrant, or person of colour to head Director of the Office of Science and Technology Policy (OSTP). She will also be the latest highlyqualified professional from the Indian-American community to be named for a key position in the Biden administration.

“I share Dr Prabhakar’s belief that America has the most powerful innovation machine the world has ever seen. As the Senate considers her nomination, I am grateful that Dr Alondra Nelson will continue to lead OSTP and Dr Francis Collins will continue to serve as my acting Science Advisor,” Biden said. —PTI