Center for Advancing Science and Technology (CAST)
The Center for Advancing Science and Technology (CAST) fuels innovation across physical sciences, engineering, education, and policy to advance the nation’s future prosperity and resilience. Our work prepares and supports the U.S. workforce to strengthen American competitiveness and security.
In progress
News and Updates
Digital Overview: Implications of AI for Cybersecurity
Update
Our new rapid expert consultation examines how AI is reshaping cybersecurity and expanding capabilities for both attackers and defenders. Explore the digital overview, which presents near-term risks, long-term opportunities, and a range of policy and research options to strengthen the nation’s cybersecurity.
DOE Should Develop AI-Based Foundation Models Fused with Traditional Computational Methods to Bring Paradigm Shift to Scientific Discovery
News Release
Foundation models are AI systems trained on vast amounts of data — often trillions of individual data points — and they are capable of learning new ways of modeling information and performing a range of tasks. A new National Academies report examines how the U.S. Department of Energy could use these models to potentially transform scientific discovery and innovation.
Digital Overview: A Vision for the Manufacturing USA Program in 2030 and 2035
Announcement
American manufacturing is at a crossroads. A new National Academies' report examines how the Manufacturing USA program can be strengthened to meet the nation’s manufacturing challenges over the next decade and beyond. Find out more by exploring the digital overview.
- Navigating the Turbulent Future of AI and Work May 4, 2026 Feature Story
- New Interactive: A Science Strategy for the Human Exploration of Mars Apr 15, 2026 Update
- Explore exciting breakthroughs in space science with The National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine at Space Science Week 2026 on March 23-27 Mar 10, 2026 Update
Our Expertise
The Center for Advancing Science and Technology (CAST) serves as the home for programs that address physical sciences, technology, education, and law at the National Academies. The center brings together world-renown experts from across disciplines and industries to translate state-of-the-art research to policy and practice. Our work aims to advance scientific innovation, foster robust and resilient systems, and strengthen the U.S. workforce, from harnessing the latest developments in artificial intelligence to developing standards for K–12 STEM education.
Program Areas
CAST’s interdisciplinary portfolio encompasses five program areas:
Statement of Task
The Center for Advancing Science and Technology will focus on fostering robust and resilient systems for science, engineering, and technology innovation and on educating and preparing the workforce to advance the welfare and security of the nation.
Contributors
Sponsors
Internal Funding
Staff
Tina Bahadori
Lead
Maggie Walser
Lead
Sue Wyatt
Maddi Nicol
Danitza Valdivia
Major units and sub-units
Computing Research, Technologies, and Systems Program Area
Aeronautics, Space, and Astronomy Program Area
Science and Engineering Education and Workforce Program Area
Physical Sciences, Systems, and Infrastructure Program Area
Center for Advancing Science and Technology Executive Office
Science and Technology Policy and Law Program Area