ARPA-E is a Department of Energy research agency with a mission of funding risky technology ideas with the potential to improve energy security and reduce emissions from energy. Since it start three years ago, the research agency has generated a number of promising technologies in a range of areas, such as batteries, cost-effective biofuels, and more efficient buildings.

 

In an interview, Toone, who took over from ARPA-E’s first director Arun Majumdar, says his main priority as principal deputy director is to bring in the top-notch research scientists ARPA-E has become known for. Those program directors oversee the progress of grant awardees, which could be businesses, universities, or national laboratories.