United States National Academy of Sciences/

History

The National Academy of Sciences (NAS) was established in 1863 by an Act of Congress, signed by President Abraham Lincoln. The Academy was created to provide independent, objective advice to the nation on matters related to science and technology. The NAS is part of the National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine, which also includes the National Academy of Engineering (NAE) and the National Academy of Medicine (NAM).

Mission and Objectives

The primary mission of the NAS is to advance science and technology for the public good. This includes providing independent, objective advice to the government and other stakeholders, promoting the use of science and technology to improve the quality of life, and fostering the development of a scientifically literate society. The NAS also aims to recognize and promote outstanding scientific achievements through its membership and awards programs.

Membership

Membership in the NAS is considered one of the highest honors that a scientist can receive. Members are elected by their peers based on their distinguished and continuing achievements in original research. The NAS has approximately 2,400 members and 500 foreign associates, who are elected for life. Members are organized into 31 disciplinary sections, covering a wide range of scientific fields.

Governance and Structure

The NAS is governed by a Council, which is composed of the President, Vice President, Home Secretary, Foreign Secretary, Treasurer, and 12 Councilors. The Council is responsible for overseeing the activities of the Academy and ensuring that it fulfills its mission. The NAS also has several standing committees, which focus on specific areas of science and policy.

Activities and Programs

The NAS conducts a wide range of activities and programs to fulfill its mission. These include:

Studies and Reports

The NAS conducts studies and produces reports on a wide range of scientific and technological issues. These reports are often requested by the government and other stakeholders and are intended to provide objective, evidence-based advice. Some notable reports include those on climate change, public health, and national security.

Awards and Honors

The NAS recognizes outstanding scientific achievements through its awards and honors programs. These include the NAS Award in Chemical Sciences, the NAS Award for Scientific Reviewing, and the NAS Award in Mathematics. The Academy also awards the prestigious Public Welfare Medal, which is given to individuals who have made significant contributions to the welfare of humanity through science and technology.

Public Engagement

The NAS is committed to promoting public understanding of science and technology. This includes organizing public lectures, symposia, and other events, as well as producing educational materials and resources. The Academy also works with the media to ensure that accurate and reliable scientific information is available to the public.

Facilities

The NAS is headquartered in Washington, D.C., and has several facilities that support its activities. These include the National Academy of Sciences Building, which houses the offices of the Academy and serves as a venue for meetings and events. The NAS also has a research facility in Woods Hole, Massachusetts, which supports scientific research and education.

Funding

The NAS is a private, non-profit organization that relies on a combination of government funding, private donations, and endowment income to support its activities. The Academy receives funding from a variety of sources, including federal agencies, foundations, corporations, and individuals. The NAS also generates revenue from the sale of its publications and other products.

Challenges and Future Directions

The NAS faces several challenges as it seeks to fulfill its mission in an increasingly complex and rapidly changing world. These include addressing emerging scientific and technological issues, maintaining the independence and objectivity of its advice, and ensuring that it has the resources and capacity to carry out its activities. The Academy is also focused on promoting diversity and inclusion within its membership and activities, as well as fostering the next generation of scientific leaders.