Driving progress for the benefit of society by providing independent, objective advice to advance science, engineering, and medicine.
Updating Crisis Standards of Care — New Publication
Announcement
The COVID-19 pandemic and other recent emergencies offered a nationwide opportunity to examine how crisis standards of care frameworks functioned in practice, when usual health care operations had to adapt substantially and emergency demand vied for limited resources. A new rapid expert consultation from the National Academies reviews those experiences, identifies gaps and emerging challenges, and highlights opportunities to strengthen future crisis standards of care.
Aug 12, 2026
Science Writer Nicola Twilley Discusses Mummy Sleuths, the Hunt for the Ancient Microbiome, and Finding Humanity in the Past
Feature Story
In a recent interview, Nicola Twilley talks about her reporting that followed scientists from the Institute for Mummy Studies as they excavate and glean discoveries from paleofeces preserved in the world’s oldest salt mine, and how that story changed her perspective on humanity and the past. Twilley was a 2025 award winner of the National Academies’ Eric and Wendy Schmidt Awards for Excellence in Science Communications.
Aug 6, 2026
Emilie Marcus to Serve as National Academy of Medicine Executive Officer
Announcement
Emilie Marcus has been appointed as the National Academy of Medicine’s Leonard D. Schaeffer Executive Officer, effective Aug. 24. Marcus will work with NAM President Monica Bertagnolli and the Academy’s governing council to advance strategic priorities, oversee programs and operations, strengthen partnerships and resource development, and support member engagement and governance. (UCLA photo)
Aug 13, 2026
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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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