Trump’s new science panel includes 9 tech billionaires—and just one scientist

image via New Scientist

March 27, 2026, 2:00 PM

• •The President's Council of Advisors on Science and Technology (PCAST) now includes a single university researcher and at least nine billionaires.
• •The new members include tech executives from Meta, Oracle, Google, and hardware companies.
• •The committee will focus on emerging technologies and science-policy recommendations.
• •PCAST's membership reflects the president’s science and tech priorities.

President Trump has appointed a science advisory panel primarily composed of tech executives and billionaires, sparking criticism due to its lack of diverse scientific representation. The panel includes figures like Mark Zuckerberg and Larry Ellison, with a single university researcher and a focus on AI, quantum, and nuclear fusion. Critics argue this composition neglects vital fields like biotechnology, potentially hindering the country's preparedness for future advancements. This shift reflects Trump's priorities, with the committee co-chaired by David Sacks and Michael Kratsios, who emphasize innovation and emerging technologies.

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