The U.S. Department of Energy announced the appointment of University of Arizona President and Distinguished Professor Suresh Garimella to the newly established Office of Science Advisory Committee, or SCAC, an advisory body that will provide independent advice on complex scientific and technical challenges across the department's Office of Science.

President Garimella is one of 21 individuals representing universities, national laboratories, foundations and corporations, who have been appointed to SCAC. He is one of only two university presidents named to the committee.

"Serving the nation through engagement is central to the University of Arizona's land-grant mission, and it is something I have valued throughout my career," said Garimella. "I am honored to have been appointed to this advisory committee and look forward to this work at a critical moment for scientific and technological advancement in energy and related areas. My sincere thanks to Under Secretary Gil for the opportunity."

"The establishment of SCAC underscores the department's commitment to scientific integrity and the power of partnership," said U.S. Department of Energy 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."

Garimella has long had an active and influential role in national science and research policy, as both a professor and university president, including serving as a member of the National Science Board, chairing the research advisory board for Sandia National Laboratories and serving on the executive committee of the Council on Competitiveness. He also served as Jefferson Science Fellow with the U.S. Department of State and as Senior Fellow of the Energy and Climate Partnership of the Americas (ECPA).

As a member of SCAC, Garimella will provide expert input to help inform priorities, improve coordination and address cross-cutting research challenges across the Office of Science, drawing on his experience as a distinguished scholar and national research leader with experience advising major science organizations and research institutions.

SCAC will be chaired by Persis Drell, professor of materials science and engineering and physics at Stanford University, provost emerita of Stanford and director emerita of SLAC National Accelerator Laboratory.

The committee will help the Office of Science adapt to a rapidly evolving research landscape and address interdisciplinary challenges in a streamlined and flexible manner. It will also provide advice on initiatives that are priorities for the office, including the Genesis Mission, scientific discovery, fusion energy and quantum science.

A full list of the 21 SCAC members is available on the U.S. Department of Energy website.