American Academy of Arts & Sciences Releases Report on Science and Engineering Research

The American Academy of Arts and Sciences released a report that offers actionable recommendations for the long-term sustainability of the U.S. science and engineering research system to ensure that the American people receive the maximum benefit from federal investments in research.

The report, Restoring the Foundation: The Vital Role of Research in Preserving the American Dream, argues “scientific and technological advances are fundamental to the prosperity, health, and security of America.” Innovation and rapid integration of new knowledge and technologies emerge from investments in research and development, and rely on the partnership among universities, federal and state governments, and industry. Staying globally competitive will require a stronger partnership and a greater focus on long-term planning in scientific and engineering research.

::Click here to view the report

The report states: “The American research enterprise is at a critical inflection point. The decisions that policy-makers and leaders in science, engineering, and technology make over the next few years will determine the trajectory of American innovation for many years to come. Recent data show that the United States has slipped to tenth place among OECD (Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development) nations in overall research and development investment as a percentage of GDP and continues to fall short of the goal of at least 3 percent adopted by several U.S. presidents. As we lose our global competitive edge, many emerging nations are increasing their research investments in order to stimulate economic growth.”