The U.S. Department of Energy Office of Science head, Asmeret Asefaw Berhe, who implemented a policy requiring grant applications to provide plans on how their research projects advance diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) is stepping down at the end of the month, according to reports.
Berhe will step down from her position on March 28 after spending nearly two years in her role. President Biden nominated Berhe, who has a background in soil biogeochemistry, in April 2021. She was confirmed by the Senate in a 54-45 vote, with only four republicans approving her designation.
Within Berhe’s first year, she helped implement a requirement in October 2022 for grant applicants to provide plans with their applications, advising how their research projects will advance DEI. The requirement was part of the Promoting Inclusive and Equitable Research (PIER) plan and was implemented in FY 2023.
The PIER Plan requirement was for applicants to describe the activities and strategies they will incorporate to promote diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility in their research projects. Once submitted, the PIER Plans will then be evaluated.
Berhe also oversaw two other workforce diversity programs rollout, including RENEW and FAIR. RENEW, a $56 million initiative, provides research opportunities to historically underrepresented groups and institutions in STEM. The FAIR program, providing up to $35 million in funding during FY 2023, aims to develop a diverse scientific workforce and contribute to the science innovation ecosystem.
In a letter to staff, Berhe expressed the importance of expanding the STEM tent, tearing down barriers, and creating opportunities for people of all walks of life to succeed in scientific careers. When Berhe steps away, she will reportedly return to the University of California in Merced, where she is a professor in soil biogeochemistry.
Berhe’s role will be temporarily filled by Harriet Kung, who serves as a deputy director in Berhe’s office.
