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Driving progress for the benefit of society by providing independent, objective advice to advance science, engineering, and medicine.

Ways we are making a difference

“There is a critical gap between the performance of machine learning [and] what we would expect in a safety-critical system,” – George Pappas, Associate Dean of Research, School of Engineering and Applied Science at University of Pennsylvania. Machine learning, a key enabler of artificial intelligence, is increasingly used for applications like self-driving cars, medical devices, and advanced robots that work near humans — all contexts where safety is of critical importance.

Making Machine Learning Safer in High-Stakes Settings
Making Machine Learning Safer in High-Stakes Settings
2025

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12,757,958 Over 12,757,958 people have engaged with our work in 2025.

7,300 Over 7,300 innovative thinkers and accomplished practitioners volunteered their time with the National Academies in 2024.

In Focus

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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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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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 the ethics of using facial recognition technology to improving pathways for women of color in tech.

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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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Our Work on Education

Education shapes the future by building knowledge, creativity, and opportunity for all while giving us the building blocks for solving pressing global challenges and enhancing quality of life. The National Academies examine how students learn, how teachers can be supported, and how systems can promote future generations of learners. Explore research that strengthens how students learn and how education systems can prepare all learners for success.

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Based On Science
Answers to everyday science and health questions

Based On Science

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