From stem cell research to ecosystem restoration to homeland security, the Division on Earth and Life Studies (DELS) enlists the nation's experts to address issues of local and national importance where policy meets the geo-, life-, and chemical sciences. The division's 15 units conduct a wide range of activities that facilitate communication among the research community, policy makers, industry, and the public.
The National Academies ARE...
- Advisors to the nation on science, engineering, and medicine—the only institution chartered by the US Congress to do so
- Independent and objective
- Non-profit
- Able to draw upon the nation's top scientists at universities, in industry, and in the government.
The National Academies are NOT...
- Part of the government
- An advocacy organization
- Consultants to for-profit entities
- Laboratories
- Limited to working for federal agencies—state and local government agencies sponsor studies
