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Oversight Unit

Physical Sciences, Systems, and Infrastructure Program Area

This program area sets research priorities, develops policy, and defines future directions for mathematical and physical sciences, energy systems, engineering and manufacturing, infrastructure and facilities, and defense and intelligence.

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News and Updates

How Innovation Could Reshape Chemistry by 2050

Feature Story

Chemistry and chemical engineering are fundamental to technologies that could revolutionize energy production, quantum computing, and materials and manufacturing over the coming decades. At a recent workshop, participants from academia, industry, and government considered the future of the chemical sciences, exploring scientific challenges that researchers should prioritize, where strategic investments could enable breakthroughs, and how the chemical sciences community can prepare for emerging capabilities.

Aug 27, 2026
Chemistry 2050: A Roadmap to the Future - A Workshop. August 6, 2026. At the Keck Center
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Statement of Task

The Physical Sciences, Systems, and Infrastructure program area brings together leading experts from academia, government, and industry to provide independent and forward-thinking advice to support technology development and identify critical future research directions across the mathematical and physical sciences and engineering. Our work shapes policy and guides decision making on topics such as the future of U.S. energy systems, infrastructure needs, smart manufacturing, physical sciences and mathematics research directions, and defense applications for emerging technologies.

Our landmark studies explore the opportunities and challenges at the frontiers of technology innovation — from digital twins to advanced nuclear reactors — and provide actionable advice on ways to harness these new advances for the benefit of the nation. Our workshops and roundtables offer unparalleled forums to discuss complex and timely issues with experts from across disciplines and perspectives.

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