Science and Technology Policy and Law Program Area
The Science and Technology Policy and Law program area provides authoritative advice to the nation on vital issues shaping science and technology. Our work protects the integrity of research, examines legal and governance frameworks, monitors U.S. policy developments to inform interested groups, and supports evidence-based decision-making.
In progress
News and Updates
Interactive Overview: Confronting Sexual Assault at Sea in the U.S. Coast Guard
Announcement
Our new report examines challenges and prospective solutions for preventing and responding to sexual assault onboard Coast Guard vessels at sea, including survivor care, forensic examinations, and evidence collection. Explore the interactive overview to learn more.
System that Investigates and Provides Determinations of Cause and Manner of Deaths in Custody Needs Comprehensive Reform, Says New Report
News Release
The system that investigates deaths in custody is fragmented, under resourced, and in need of comprehensive reform. A new National Academies report outlines the challenges facing the U.S. medicolegal death investigation system and recommends actions to improve it at the local, state, and federal levels.
Sustaining a Vibrant and Secure U.S. Research Enterprise
Announcement
In an increasingly competitive international environment, the United States is facing new challenges to its leadership in science and technology (S&T) . Our resource brings together the National Academies' substantial body of work related to advancing U.S. S&T leadership while protecting the U.S. enterprise from foreign misappropriation of scientific and technological information.
Our Expertise
The Science and Technology Policy and Law program area brings together leading experts from academia, government, and industry to explore how legal systems, governance structures, and policy frameworks intersect with science, technology, and society. Our work addresses cross-sector issues that shape the research enterprise and innovation ecosystem — such as data governance, national security, and emerging technologies — while also engaging deeply with questions of justice, ethics, and public accountability.
Our landmark studies and convenings explore how evidence and scientific understanding inform legal decision making and how law and policy can evolve to reflect technological and societal change. Our portfolio includes work on topics ranging from the use of science in the courts and forensic practices to the broader impacts of innovation policy, helping ensure that science, technology, and law together serve the public good.
Statement of Task
Examines legal frameworks and cross-sector policy issues affecting science and technology. Monitors U.S. policy developments and supports evidence-based decision-making.
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Contributors
Staff
Emily Backes
Lead
Major units and sub-units
Center for Advancing Science and Technology
Lead
Science and Technology Policy and Law Program Area
Lead