Asmeret Asefaw Berhe, the recently departed director of the Department of Energy's (DOE) Office of Science, has left a notable legacy in her 22-month tenure. Berhe, a soil scientist, made history as the first person of color to lead the nation's largest funder of physical sciences, overseeing an annual budget of $8.2 billion. Her departure has prompted reflection on her accomplishments and the challenges she faced during her tenure.
Berhe's leadership was marked by a commitment to making DOE's basic research more relevant to climate change and promoting diversity and inclusion in scientific endeavors. Under her direction, the Office of Science established urban integrated field laboratories to study climate change impacts on urban areas and implemented a requirement for grant applicants to include diversity and inclusion plans in their proposals.
In a recent interview, Berhe discussed her decision to step down, citing personal reasons and a desire to return to her academic position at the University of California, Merced. Despite her excitement for the next chapter in her career, Berhe expressed sadness at leaving behind the opportunity to lead the Office of Science and its dedicated workforce.
Reflecting on her tenure, Berhe emphasized the importance of addressing the climate crisis and ensuring that basic science remains integral to climate and clean energy initiatives. She acknowledged the complexities of navigating bureaucratic structures within DOE but underscored the need for adaptive approaches to evolving science and energy policies.
Berhe's efforts to elevate basic climate science and foster diversity and inclusion within DOE have been met with both praise and skepticism. While some applaud her initiatives as critical steps towards addressing climate challenges and expanding STEM participation, others question the focus on preprints and diversity measures.
In response to criticisms of her appointment as a non-physicist, Berhe highlighted her record of accomplishment and emphasized the importance of breaking down barriers for underrepresented groups in STEM fields. Despite facing opposition, Berhe remains proud of her achievements and the progress made during her tenure at the Office of Science.
As Berhe transitions back to academia, her departure leaves a void in DOE's leadership. However, her legacy serves as a testament to the importance of inclusive and forward-thinking leadership in shaping the future of scientific research and innovation.
