The Office of Science is accountable for the effective stewardship and management of ten world class national laboratories. The Office of Science uses a performance based management and operating contract model to achieve its mission objectives. This model allows for the Federally-owned laboratories to be managed by a contractor which brings their resources, knowledge and expertise to bear on managing the laboratory for the Department. The success of such a model is clearly demonstrated by the world class scientific and technical strengths in staff and facilities resident at these national laboratories.

The Office of Laboratory Policy and Evaluation develops, manages, and ensures the implementation of DOE acquisition policies and procedures to strengthen the Office of Science management and operating contract system. The Office of Laboratory Policy and Evaluation supports the development of procurement policies that support comprehensive acquisition planning and robust contractor performance management.