Driving progress for the benefit of society by providing independent, objective advice to advance science, engineering, and medicine.
Celebrating the Launch of the Roman Space Telescope
Announcement
Over the weekend, NASA successfully launched the Nancy Grace Roman Space Telescope — the top-ranked large space mission recommended by the National Academies’ 2010 decadal survey on astronomy and astrophysics. With a field of view more than 100 times larger than that of the Hubble Space Telescope, the Roman mission will perform a comprehensive survey of the cosmos with the goal of discovering exoplanets and advancing our understanding of dark matter and energy. For decades, the National Academies have helped identify science goals and mission priorities for NASA, including our most recent Astro 2020 decadal survey.
Aug 31, 2026
Potential of Emerging Research Institutions To Be Explored at Upcoming National Academies Summit
Feature Story
Emerging research institutions — which by statute spend less than $50 million in federal research funding annually — are essential in STEM workforce development. In advance of a National Academies summit next week on reenvisioning the future of STEM research at ERIs, we spoke with summit co-chair Bobwealth Omontese to find out more about ERIs, their role in the broader research community, and what the summit is aiming to achieve.
Aug 26, 2026
A Vision for 21st Century Science Education
Announcement
Our landmark 2012 report A Framework for K-12 Science Education served as the foundation for modern state science education standards, setting a bold new direction for science teaching and learning in the U.S. The National Academies continue to work on improving curriculum, instruction, assessment, and professional development — supporting better outcomes for students and enabling collaboration across districts and state lines.
Sep 1, 2026
Ways we are making a difference
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Discover what the National Academies are doing to strengthen the fields of science, engineering, and medicine.
In Focus
Our Work on Artificial Intelligence
As artificial intelligence increasingly becomes a part of daily life, the National Academies are advising the government on AI use, policy, ethics, and innovation. Explore our work, from making machine learning safer in high-stakes applications to setting standards for how AI is used in health and medicine.
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Advancing a Robust U.S. Economy
Much of the National Academies’ work contributes to building a stronger, more competitive U.S. economy. We apply our expertise to spur innovation, bolster industrial capacity, modernize America’s infrastructure, and develop a skilled technical workforce for the 21st century.
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Supporting State and Local Decision Making
Many science-related challenges that affect people’s health, environment, and livelihoods directly and profoundly require responses at the state, local, and regional levels. National Academies studies, workshops, and other projects help policymakers and communities better understand and navigate these challenges.
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Our Work on Transportation
We rely on working transportation and infrastructure to go about our daily lives: a reliable electrical grid, durable buildings, and safe roads for all. The National Academies provide insights on how to create and maintain these critical systems to build a strong foundation for America’s future.
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Environment and Biology
The National Academies study biodiversity, climate change, and the biological sciences to inform conservation and support environmental health. Explore research that helps communities adapt, protect nature, and build a more sustainable world. Photo Credit: Chris Michel
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Strengthening the U.S. Research Enterprise
A strong research enterprise drives innovation and discovery, improves Americans’ health and well-being, and protects national security. Learn more about our work on advancing U.S. leadership in science, protecting research integrity, and training a resilient STEM labor force.
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