Dr Ernest J. Moniz

A leading voice on energy innovation pathways and international security matters, Ernest J. Moniz served as the thirteenth United States Secretary of Energy from 2013 to January 2017.

As secretary, Moniz (pronounced MO-neez) advanced energy technology innovation, nuclear security and strategic stability, cutting-edge capabilities for the American scientific research community, and environmental stewardship.

In office, he strengthened the U.S. Department of Energy’s (DOE’s) strategic partnership with its 17 national laboratories, as well as with the U.S. Department of Defense, and the broader national security establishment. Moniz’s DOE implemented legislation and produced analytically based energy policy proposals that attracted bipartisan support (Future of Nuclear Power, Future of Coal, Future of Natural Gas and of the Nuclear Fuel Cycle). He also negotiated the historic Iran nuclear agreement with then-Secretary of State John Kerry. He created Mission Innovation, an international initiative that placed science and technology at the center of governmental response to climate change.

He is a sought-after expert by media organizations, and since returning to private life has appeared frequently on platforms such as CNN, CNBC, CBS News, and NPR. His ability to communicate complicated issues to a general audience has led to multiple appearances on Real Time with Bill Maher, The Daily Show and The Late Show with Stephen Colbert. He is author or co-author or more than two dozen opinion pieces that have been published in outlets such as the Boston Globe, The Wall Street Journal, the Washington Post, and The Economist.

Professor Moniz previously served as undersecretary of energy from 1997 until 2001 with science, energy, and nuclear security responsibilities. Before that, he was associate director for science in the Office of Science and Technology Policy from 1995 to 1997, with responsibility for the physical, life, and social sciences. He was a member of the President’s Council of Advisors on Science and Technology as well as the Defense Threat Reduction Advisory Committee from 2009 to 2013. He also served on the Blue Ribbon Commission on America’s Nuclear Future.