Driving progress for the benefit of society by providing independent, objective advice to advance science, engineering, and medicine.
Join Us for the 2026 State of the Science Address
Announcement
National Academy of Sciences President Marcia McNutt will discuss 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, to be delivered on June 2. Her address will be followed by a panel discussion with other science leaders. (photo by Christopher Michel)
May 29, 2026
Science Academies Call on G7 to Protect the Arctic, Manage Large Satellite Constellations, and Advance Brain Health
Announcement
The National Academy of Sciences joined science academies from France, Germany, Italy, Japan, Canada, and the United Kingdom in issuing three joint statements to inform discussions during the June G7 summit, as well as to offer science-informed guidance for ongoing policymaking. The S7 statements provide analysis of the current scientific evidence and recommendations related to the Arctic, large satellite constellations, and brain health.
May 19, 2026
Academy Members Receive Prestigious Shaw Prizes
Announcement
In recognition of distinguished and significant advances in their respective fields, this year’s Shaw Prize in Astronomy was awarded in equal shares to Stanford Woosley (NAS) and Ken’ichi Nomoto; the Shaw Prize in Life Science and Medicine was awarded to Zhu Chen (NAS/NAM), Hugues de Thé (NAM), and Anne Dejean; and the Shaw Prize in Mathematical Sciences was awarded to Emmanuel Candès (NAS) and Camillo De Lellis.
May 27, 2026
- New Report on Managing Highway Stormwater Quality May 21, 2026 Announcement
- New Technologies and Approaches Needed to Shore Up Interconnected U.S. Energy and Water Systems, Says New Report May 19, 2026 News Release
- U.S. Should Substantially Boost Support for Manufacturing USA Program, Issue National Industrial Manufacturing Strategy, Says New Report May 14, 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.
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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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