Process

The National Academies bring together the nation’s leading experts through rigorous, evidence-based processes to deliver high-quality, independent advice. Our work is guided by the highest standards of integrity, objectivity, and scientific rigor to yield trustworthy, impactful results.

Photo by Dan Chung

From Purpose to Process

For more than 160 years, the National Academies have stayed true to a core set of values and principles that continue to shape our approach to tackling complex challenges.

Objectivity

The National Academies’ work is grounded in facts, evidence, and impartial analysis. We engage a range of perspectives, apply consistent policies and procedures to ensure balance, foster an environment where all participants can fully contribute, and uphold rigorous standards to ensure our advice reflects the best available knowledge.

Independence

As a private, nongovernmental institution, the National Academies maintain full autonomy in conducting our activities and developing and communicating our advice free from undue influence from sponsors, donors, or other interested parties.

Excellence

The National Academies bring together the nation’s leading experts through rigorous, evidence-based processes to deliver high-quality, independent advice. This partnership of unparalleled expertise and disciplined procedures sets the gold standard for authoritative, trustworthy guidance.

Rigorous Processes That Ensure Trust

To ensure quality across all of our activities, we adhere to the principles and practices that guide our work and to a set of well-established processes.

Collaborative and Interdisciplinary Approaches

Each project has a carefully developed scope and approach aligned to the issue at hand and the standards and capabilities of the National Academies. By bringing together a range of perspectives, and carrying out our work through cooperative, respectful discourse and the free exchange of ideas, we uncover innovative, outside-of-the-box solutions to the nation’s toughest challenges.

Principles and Practices That Guide Our Work

Balanced and Wide-Ranging Expertise

Our work brings together the best minds across disciplines and fields of expertise, carefully taking into account the knowledge and perspective that each participant will bring to the table.

Composition and Balance, Conflicts of Interest, and Independence: Policies and Procedures

Expert Review

All National Academies’ publications undergo a rigorous review by independent experts with a range of views and perspectives.

Guidelines for the Review of Products of the National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine

Providing Objective Advice on Complex Issues

We harness collective wisdom and a broad range of expertise, experience, and perspectives to inform decision making and create meaningful change. Our projects bring together leading experts to explore critical questions, share insights, and develop innovative solutions to complex challenges.

Consensus and Advisory Activities

Convening Experts to Advance Knowledge and Inform Action

Through a variety of convening activities, our work strengthens and elevates science, engineering, and medicine as drivers of progress for the benefit of society.

Convening Activities

STEM professionals discussing science and policy issues

Empowering Talent and Advancing Progress

Our programs nurture the next generation of scientific leaders, support the advancement of research and capacity building, and celebrate the remarkable achievements of those whose work is transforming the world.

Fellowships, Grants, and Awards

Expanding the Reach of Science and Knowledge

We share knowledge and insights that aim to inspire a wide range of audiences, both inside and outside of the scientific community.

Lectures and Educational and Outreach Activities

State of Science 2024. State of the Science address will explore the current status of the U.S. research enterprise and strategies for navigating a rapidly changing scientific landscape.

Policies and Procedures

The National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine follow rigorous policies and procedures that uphold integrity, transparency, and public confidence in our work.

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From Purpose to Process

For more than 160 years, the National Academies have stayed true to a core set of values and principles that continue to shape our approach to tackling complex challenges.

Rigorous Processes That Ensure Trust

To ensure quality across all of our activities, we adhere to the principles and practices that guide our work and to a set of well-established processes.