Physical Sciences, Systems, and Infrastructure Program Area
This program area sets research priorities, highlights critical future directions, and develops policy innovations to advance mathematical and physical sciences, energy systems, engineering and manufacturing, infrastructure and facilities, and defense and intelligence.
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News and Updates
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.
Why Chemistry Might Be Our Best Clue to Life on Other Planets
Program News
The Chemistry in 2050–Space webinar brought together leading scientists to discuss how chemistry is essential for understanding the universe, from the origins of life on other planets to the adaptation of biology in extreme space environments. Panelists highlighted the need for more laboratory-based astrochemistry, addressed challenges in detecting biosignatures like phosphine, and emphasized the importance of innovative research and flexible mission approaches to advance space bioscience.
Exploring the New Nuclear Energy Landscape
Feature Story
The energy industry in the U.S. is undergoing rapid change, and the needs of “hyperscalers” and others have led to a resurgence of interest in nuclear energy. A recent workshop brought together experts in tech, policymaking, finance, and community engagement to discuss what comes next.
Featured publication
Federal facilities are increasingly complex and sophisticated systems of systems, with automated systems tied together through operational technology (OT) networks monitoring and controlling lighting and environmental control systems (CS), among many others. Federal agencies have built virtual fortr...
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