Driving progress for the benefit of society by providing independent, objective advice to advance science, engineering, and medicine.
Watch the 2026 State of the Science Address
Announcement
National Academy of Sciences President Marcia McNutt discussed the status of the United States’ research enterprise, global leadership in science, and implications for economic competitiveness in the third annual State of the Science address, delivered on June 2. Her address was followed by a panel discussion with other science leaders. (photo by Kevin Allen)
Jun 3, 2026
VA, Congress Urged to Improve Process for Evaluating Disabilities Related to Military Sexual Trauma in New Report
News Release
Military sexual trauma can have immediate and lasting effects on veterans’ mental and physical health, yet many veterans encounter challenges when seeking disability compensation related to that trauma. A new National Academies report reviews the compensation examination process and makes recommendations to ensure veterans receive disability evaluations that are accessible, accurate, and fair.
Jun 3, 2026
Platform Science and the Fragmentation of Global Scientific Cooperation
Announcement
In an editorial in PNAS Nexus, Vaughan Turekian, executive director of the National Academies’ Office of International Networks, Cooperation, and Security, argues that decisions made in the next five years about who can access AI-enabled platforms, and how, will shape the geography of global discovery for a generation.
Jun 4, 2026
- Health and Safety Impacts of Aircraft Cabin Temperatures — New Report Jun 3, 2026 News Release
- Academy Members Receive Prestigious Shaw Prizes May 27, 2026 Announcement
- Science Academies Call on G7 to Protect the Arctic, Manage Large Satellite Constellations, and Advance Brain Health May 19, 2026 Announcement
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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