Director of the U.S. Office of Science and Technology Policy (OSTP) Arati Prabhakar was recognized as one of TIME's 100 most influential people in AI due to  her transformative impact on science and technology. She has spearheaded efforts that enhanced the nation's scientific and technological capabilities, driving advancements in critical fields such as semiconductor physics, cybersecurity and AI. Her visionary leadership sets the foundation for the next generation of technological advancements.

Prabhakar's remarkable career began with a Bachelor's degree in electrical engineering from Texas Tech University, followed by a Master's degree from the California Institute of Technology (Caltech). Her academic journey culminated in a Ph.D. in applied physics from Stanford University, where her early work on semiconductor physics laid the foundation for much of the advanced technology seen today.

Her brilliance was quickly recognized in the scientific community, leading to her early role at the Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA). At DARPA, Prabhakar worked on innovative projects that pushed the boundaries of technology, including early warning systems, cybersecurity defenses and breakthroughs in materials science—her time at DARPA marked the beginning of her influence on high-impact research that continues to shape the world.

In 2012, Prabhakar made history by becoming the first woman to lead DARPA, overseeing the agency's research portfolio at a pivotal time for technology development. During her tenure, she guided the creation of transformative technologies in areas such as AI, robotics and high-performance computing. Under her leadership, DARPA achieved milestone advancements that have since become integral to modern society.

Prabhakar's focus on interdisciplinary collaboration with uniting government, industry, and academia created an innovation ecosystem that connected research with real-world applications. As a member of the president's cabinet and co-chair of the President's Council of Advisors on Science and Technology (PCAST), her leadership spanned multiple sectors. She was honored as a 1997 IEEE Fellow for her leadership in fostering partnerships between industry and government. Prabhakar is also a member of the National Academy of Engineering and has been a Distinguished Engineer by Texas Tech and a Distinguished Alumna by Caltech.

As Director of the OSTP, Prabhakar sets the nation's scientific priorities, focusing on addressing urgent global challenges. She collaborates closely with policymakers, industry leaders and the research community to advance solutions in climate change, pandemic preparedness and cybersecurity resilience. Her leadership is pivotal in aligning science and technology with societal needs, ensuring innovation contributes to economic growth, national security, and public health.

Her vision is rooted has a strong commitment to inclusivity, sustainability and the ethical development of technology. Prabhakar champions initiatives that ensure technological advances benefit all communities and contribute to a more equitable and sustainable future. Through her work, she promotes a science-driven vision that empowers society, advancing human potential while enhancing collective well-being.

Prabhakar's induction into the TIME 100/AI list highlights her transformative impact on semiconductor physics, cybersecurity and AI. Her visionary leadership at the OSTP is shaping the future of science and technology nationally and globally, inspiring the next generation of scientists, engineers, and innovators. Prabhakar's work is a guiding light for those who use innovation to tackle the world's biggest challenges, ensuring a technologically advanced future.

URL: https://time.com/7012807/arati-prabhakar/