“The function of education, therefore, is to teach one to think intensively and to think critically… We must remember that intelligence is not enough. Intelligence plus character – that is the goal of true education.”
The Purpose of Education, Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. 1947
Advancing sustainable, low-carbon energy systems is at the center of Edgar Virgüez’s work. At the Department of Energy Science & Engineering at Stanford University, he applies resource modeling, evaluates environmental externalities in energy transformation, and develops strategies to expand energy services. His scholarship reflects this commitment, with more than 20 peer-reviewed publications that have garnered over 800 citations in leading journals, including Energy & Environmental Science and Environmental Science & Technology.
Beyond his individual scholarship, he serves as Managing Director of the EARNEST Consortium, a $23 million initiative led by Stanford University and funded by the U.S. Department of Energy, uniting 21 partner institutions across North America. The consortium comprises 16 leading universities, 3 national laboratories, and 2 energy-focused research organizations to identify and advance solutions for the future of the U.S. electricity system. At the global level, Dr. Virgüez contributes to energy and climate initiatives through roles such as Expert Advisor to the Earthshot Prize, founded by Prince William, where he helps evaluate climate innovations competing for transformative awards.
His leadership and scholarship have been recognized with more than 20 awards totaling $34,365, including the 2025 Science for Solutions Award from the American Geophysical Union (AGU), which honors significant contributions in applying Earth and space sciences to societal challenges. As an educator, he has taught 17 courses to nearly 600 students, earning distinctions such as the K. Patricia Cross Future Leader Award from the Association of American Colleges and Universities (AAC&U) and the Graduate School Dean’s Award for Excellence in Teaching from Duke University. He also brings governance experience as a former Young Trustee on Duke University’s Board of Trustees, current member of its Climate Commitment Campaign Advocates Board, and Executive Board Member of Environmental Research: Energy, where he helps guide the journal’s strategic direction.
Dr. Virgüez holds a Ph.D. in Environmental Sciences and Policy and an M.A. in Environment from Duke University, along with an M.Sc. and dual B.Sc. degrees in Chemical and Environmental Engineering from Universidad de los Andes. Grounded in this rigorous academic training and reinforced by a proven record of research, education, and governance, he is recognized for his ability to advance science, guide institutions, and build partnerships to deliver solutions at scale for urgent global challenges.
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