July 12, 2017

The White House Office of Science and Technology Policy (OSTP) continues to operate without a director and has recently lost some science division staff. 

Established in 1976, the OSTP provides advice to the President and others within the Executive Office in order for them to make informed decisions with respect to the scientific, engineering, and technological aspects of federal policies and programs. The OSTP also assists the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) with an annual review of federally-funded research and development efforts that helps to shape budget priorities each fiscal year.

According to an administration official, the OSTP currently has only 35 staff members, which is about one-third of the number of OSTP staff employed under the Obama administration. As of July 12, President Donald Trump has yet to nominate an OSTP Director, who traditionally acts as the President’s science advisor.

Source: E&E News, Nature, White House Office of Science and Technology Policy