The council follows a tradition of presidential advisory panels focused on science and technology that dates back to President Franklin D. Roosevelt's Science Advisory Board, continued by President Harry Truman.

PCAST makes policy recommendations in areas such as understanding of science, technology, and innovation.

The council members, distinguished individuals appointed by the president, are drawn from industry, education, research institutions, and other NGOs.

He had already announced the 3 co-chairs Frances Arnold, Maria Zuber, and Eric Lander before his swearing-in in January 2021.

[8] As of January 2023[update], there are 3 co-chairs: Frances Arnold, Maria Zuber, and Arati Prabhakar.