Professor Barbara Chapman was appointed to the Advanced Scientific Computing Advisory Committee (ASCAC) at the Department of Energy (DOE). This committee advises the DOE on a variety of complex scientific and technical issues related to its Advanced Scientific Computing Research program.

ASCAC’s recommendations include advice on long-range plans, priorities and strategies to address more effectively the scientific aspects of advanced scientific computing. This includes the relationship of advanced scientific computing to other scientific disciplines and maintaining appropriate balance among elements of the program. The ASCAC’s mandate includes giving advice on national policy and scientific issues related to advanced scientific computing that are of concern to the Department of Energy as requested by the Secretary or the Under Secretary for Science.

ASCAC was established in 1999. The DOE’s Office of Science is the single largest supporter of basic research in the physical sciences in the United States, providing more than 40 percent of total funding for this vital area of national importance.