Science Council

One of the critical functions of the SC is to oversee the review and approval of applications for prospective researchers. This process is essential to advancing the SETI Institute’s core mission: to understand the origin and prevalence of life in the universe and the evolution of intelligence. By ensuring that incoming researchers contribute meaningfully to this vision across disciplines, the SC safeguards the SETI Institute’s intellectual rigor and strengthens its ability to explore life’s deepest questions, from microbial biosignatures to technosignatures and beyond.

The Science Council convenes quarterly in person to determine strategic priorities for the research vision and meets as needed via teleconference to address emerging tactical needs. It also produces quarterly and annual reports on the SETI Institute’s scientific activities and leads the drafting and review of internal announcements for funding opportunities. Through these efforts, the SC ensures transparency, alignment across research programs, and the continued growth of interdisciplinary excellence.

The Science Council is chaired by the Director of the Carl Sagan Center for Research, with a Co-Chair supporting collaborative leadership. Together, they guide the SC in shaping the scientific trajectory of the SETI Institute, i.e., fostering innovation, integrity, and vision across the research landscape. As a governing and strategic body, the SC plays a pivotal role in ensuring that the SETI Institute remains at the forefront of discovery in the search for life beyond Earth.