APLU Statement on President-elect Biden’s Science Personnel Selections

Washington, DC – Association of Public and Land-grant Universities President Peter McPherson today released a statement on President-elect Biden’s personnel selections for key science positions in the administration.

“We applaud the strong group of scientists President-elect Biden named to senior administration roles today. These individuals will play a critical role in addressing the pandemic and advancing science-driven policy. They also underscore the incoming administration’s commitment to promoting diversity, equity, and inclusion in STEM.

“Eric Lander, Alondra Nelson, and Kei Koizumi are excellent picks for the White House Office of Science and Technology Policy. President-elect Biden has also wisely chosen to keep Francis Collins, the longest-serving Director of the National Institutes of Health. He has done an extraordinary job and his experience at this time is more important than ever.

“Elevating the OSTP Director to a cabinet-level position sends an unmistakable message that science will play a key role in policymaking. In selecting these talented individuals, President-elect Biden recognizes that science is interwoven into all aspects of federal policy and critical to fueling economic growth and job creation. From health to transportation to defense, the U.S. needs a coordinated and integrated approach to science and this team will help achieve that. Science, technology, and innovation are not just central to the health and prosperity of our country, but hallmarks of U.S. global leadership and we are fortunate to have such experienced leaders taking on these roles.”