Driving progress for the benefit of society by providing independent, objective advice to advance science, engineering, and medicine.
Join Us for ‘Revolutions in Science: Discovery, Imagination, and the Future’
Announcement
As the United States marks its 250th anniversary, the National Academy of Sciences and the Smithsonian Institution are co-hosting a daylong symposium exploring the ideas, technologies, and people that have shaped the American scientific enterprise and how to sustain science and discovery for generations to come. Watch the livestream on June 25.
Jun 22, 2026
The Enduring Pursuit of Science in America
Announcement
In a new editorial in Science, NAS President-elect Neil Shubin reflects on the Academy’s founding by Abraham Lincoln and Congress during the Civil War. They “looked at a nation in crisis and built something designed to last … a place where the best available knowledge could be gathered, examined, and put in service of the common good. That remains the Academy’s aspiration.” (photo by Christopher Michel)
Jun 25, 2026
AI Will Elevate Near-Term Cybersecurity Risks but — with Investment and Coordination — Can Strengthen Cybersecurity in the Long Run
News Release
To counteract emerging cyberthreats posed by artificial intelligence, the baseline level of cybersecurity across society must rise — including stronger security practices, improved software quality, faster response to threats, and more effective sharing of cyberthreat intelligence, says a new rapid expert consultation from the National Academies.
Jun 24, 2026
- Statement by National Academies Presidents on Importance of NSF’s Ocean Observatories Initiative Jun 9, 2026 Statement
- Watch the 2026 State of the Science Address Jun 3, 2026 Announcement
- FAA Urged to Revise its Approach to Radiation Exposure for Flight Crewmembers; Current Approaches Are Insufficient, Says New Report Jun 12, 2026 News Release
Ways we are making a difference
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Discover what the National Academies are doing to strengthen the fields of science, engineering, and medicine.
In Focus
Our Work on Artificial Intelligence
As artificial intelligence increasingly becomes a part of daily life, the National Academies are advising the government on AI use, policy, ethics, and innovation. Explore our work, from making machine learning safer in high-stakes applications to setting standards for how AI is used in health and medicine.
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Advancing a Robust U.S. Economy
Much of the National Academies’ work contributes to building a stronger, more competitive U.S. economy. We apply our expertise to spur innovation, bolster industrial capacity, modernize America’s infrastructure, and develop a skilled technical workforce for the 21st century.
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Supporting State and Local Decision Making
Many science-related challenges that affect people’s health, environment, and livelihoods directly and profoundly 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.
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Our Work on Transportation
We rely on working transportation and infrastructure to go about our daily lives: a reliable electrical grid, durable buildings, and safe roads for all. The National Academies provide insights on how to create and maintain these critical systems to build a strong foundation for America’s future.
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Environment and Biology
The National Academies study biodiversity, climate change, and the biological sciences to inform conservation and support environmental health. Explore research that helps communities adapt, protect nature, and build a more sustainable world. Photo Credit: Chris Michel
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Strengthening the U.S. Research Enterprise
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 labor force.
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