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Purpose

We bring together the best minds across disciplines, sectors, and borders to advance solutions for a brighter future.

Where Dedication Meets Expertise

The National Academies provide independent, trustworthy advice and facilitate solutions to complex challenges by mobilizing expertise, practice, and knowledge in science, engineering, and medicine. We envision a nation and world that rely on scientific evidence to make decisions that benefit humanity. At the core of our work is an unwavering commitment to objectivity, scientific rigor, and truth. 

National Academy of Sciences (NAS) building

Our Core Values

Independence, Objectivity, Rigor, Integrity, Inclusivity, Truth

Process
A Collective of Talent
At the heart of the National Academies is our network of extraordinary individuals who bring unparalleled knowledge, perspectives, and a steadfast commitment to serving the public good.

Each year, thousands of top experts in their fields — including the distinguished members elected to our Academies — volunteer their time and expertise to our projects.

Our Experts Our Program Centers

We leverage a variety of formats to share knowledge and facilitate solutions, ranging from in-depth consensus studies to collaborative workshops. No matter the activity, we conduct our work in a manner that is based in scientific evidence and meets our standards of excellence, objectivity, and nonpartisanship.

A Pledge of Excellence

We offer a wide range of programmatic capabilities to share knowledge and facilitate solutions, ranging from in-depth consensus studies to collaborative workshops. No matter the activity, we conduct our work in a manner that is based in scientific evidence and meets our standards of excellence, objectivity, and nonpartisanship.

A Legacy of Trust

The National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine operate under a congressional charter signed by President Abraham Lincoln in 1863, at the height of the Civil War, to advise the nation on issues related to science and technology. The legacy continues to this day, as the National Academies work together to address the most pressing challenges facing our nation and the world. The work of our private, nonprofit institution is grounded in the expertise of the membership elected to our three Academies and conducted through our major program centers and offices.

National Academy 
of Sciences

The National Academy of Sciences — established in 1863, making it the third oldest American institution — recognizes and elevates outstanding science, fosters the broad understanding of science, and oversees the National Research Council.

National Academy 
of Engineering

Established in 1964, the National Academy of Engineering strengthens our nation by advancing engineering, advising on emerging technologies, and sharing knowledge that supports innovation and progress.

National Academy 
of Medicine

Established in 1970, the National Academy of Medicine is committed to nonpartisan, evidence-based leadership that aims to advance science, inform policy, and catalyze action to achieve optimal health for all.

Learn More About Our Work

Our Work to Strengthen U.S. Research

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 workforce.

Supporting State and Local Decision Making

Many science-related challenges that directly and profoundly affect people’s health, environment, and livelihoods 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.

Our Work on Transportation and Infrastructure

The National Academies are advising the nation on ways to achieve and sustain strong infrastructure and transportation systems like a robust electrical grid, durable supply chains, and resilient buildings, bridges, and roads.

Work with Us

Looking for independent, nonpartisan guidance from the nation’s top subject-matter experts? We stand ready to help potential sponsors across a variety of sectors shape research and policy agendas, regulation, investments, operations, state and local initiatives, and more.

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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.

Learn More

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