The National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine

Background

The National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine (NASEM) serve as the collective scientific national academy of the United States. Established under a congressional charter, NASEM comprises three honorific societies: the National Academy of Sciences (NAS), the National Academy of Engineering (NAE), and the National Academy of Medicine (NAM). These academies operate as independent entities while collaborating under the NASEM umbrella to provide objective, evidence-based advice on matters of science, engineering, and medicine. Their mission is to inform policy decisions, foster innovation, and address complex societal challenges for the benefit of the public.

Key Strategic Focus

NASEM's strategic focus encompasses:

• Policy Advisory Role: Offering independent, objective advice to inform policy with evidence, spark progress and innovation, and confront challenging issues for the benefit of society.

• Research and Publications: Conducting studies and publishing reports that shape policies, inform public opinion, and advance the pursuit of science, engineering, and medicine.

• Public Engagement: Engaging with the public through various programs and publications to increase awareness of scientific and evidence-based solutions to community problems.

Financials and Funding

NASEM operates as a nonprofit organization and does not receive direct appropriations from the federal government. Its revenue is primarily derived from grants and contracts awarded by federal agencies, state governments, private foundations, and industrial organizations. In 2018, the total revenue applied was approximately $263.9 million, with about 70% sourced from federal funds. Notable contributors include the Department of Transportation, Department of Defense, and Department of Health and Human Services. Additionally, NASEM has received private donations from entities such as Chevron, Google, Merck, and Medtronic.

Technological Platform and Innovation

NASEM distinguishes itself through several proprietary platforms and innovative methodologies:

• National Academies Press (NAP): Established to disseminate the academies' reports, NAP publishes nearly 500 titles annually across various scientific disciplines. It was among the first publishers to offer free online access to its materials, promoting open access to scientific information.

• Joseph Henry Press (JHP): An imprint of NAP, JHP publishes books on science, technology, and health for the general public, aiming to make complex scientific topics accessible to a broader audience.

• Issues in Science and Technology: A policy journal co-published with Arizona State University, providing a forum for discussion on public policy related to science, technology, engineering, and medicine. It serves as a platform for researchers, government officials, and industry leaders to share ideas with a broad audience.

Leadership Team

NASEM's leadership comprises distinguished professionals from various scientific and engineering disciplines:

• Marcia McNutt: Serving as the President of the National Academy of Sciences and Chair of the National Research Council, McNutt is a geophysicist with a notable career, including her role as the former director of the U.S. Geological Survey.

• John L. Anderson: As the President of the National Academy of Engineering, Anderson brings extensive experience in chemical engineering and academic leadership.

• Victor Dzau: President of the National Academy of Medicine, Dzau is a physician-scientist recognized for his contributions to cardiovascular medicine and global health.

Competitor Profile

As a unique entity chartered by Congress, NASEM operates without direct competitors in its specific role of providing independent, objective advice on science, engineering, and medicine to the U.S. government and public. However, other organizations contribute to science and technology policy discourse:

• American Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS): Publishes "Science" and engages in science policy advocacy.

• Institute of Medicine (IOM): Now part of NAM, it focuses on health and medical issues.

• RAND Corporation: Conducts research and analysis on a wide range of policy issues, including science and technology.

Strategic Collaborations and Partnerships

NASEM collaborates with various organizations to enhance its impact:

• Arizona State University: Co-publishes "Issues in Science and Technology," fostering dialogue on science and technology policy.

• Federal Agencies: Engages in numerous projects and studies commissioned by agencies such as the Department of Transportation and the Department of Defense.

Operational Insights

NASEM's operational model emphasizes:

• Independence: Maintaining objectivity by operating without direct government funding.

• Expertise: Leveraging the knowledge of elected members who are leaders in their respective fields.

• Public Engagement: Disseminating information through publications and programs to inform and educate the public.

Strategic Opportunities and Future Directions

Looking ahead, NASEM aims to:

• Enhance Digital Accessibility: Expand online platforms to increase the reach and impact of its publications.

• Foster Interdisciplinary Research: Encourage collaboration across scientific disciplines to address complex societal challenges.

• Strengthen Public Trust: Continue providing unbiased, evidence-based advice to inform policy and public opinion.

Contact Information

• Website: National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine

• Social Media:

• Twitter: @theNASEM

• Facebook: The National Academies

• LinkedIn: The National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine