Driving progress for the benefit of society by providing independent, objective advice to advance science, engineering, and medicine.
Meet Neil Shubin, Who Wants to Bring the Excitement of Discovery to What We Do at NAS
Announcement
In an introductory video, evolutionary biologist and new National Academy of Sciences president Neil H. Shubin describes how he would like to connect the wonder of science and excitement of discovery to the breakthroughs that impact people’s lives across the country, and that he looks forward to collaborating with others to advance the mission of the National Academies to serve the nation.
Jul 13, 2026
Mirror Image Biology: Pushing the Envelope in Designing Biological Systems
Announcement
A new publication captures discussions at a National Academies workshop on the current state of mirror biology, its potential applications and risks, and considerations for governance as advances in synthetic biology continue toward the development of replication-competent, self-sufficient, mirror-image bacteria.
Jul 20, 2026
The Science of Extreme Event Attribution — Which Analyzes Climate Change’s Influence on Specific Weather Events — Has Advanced, But Challenges Remain
News Release
A new report from the National Academies provides a comprehensive assessment of the current capabilities of extreme event attribution (EEA) — a scientific field that analyzes whether and to what extent human-caused climate change influenced an individual extreme weather event, such as a heat wave or large-scale heavy rainfall.
Jul 15, 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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