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INSTITUTIONS & U.S. Science and Technology Policy

INSTITUTIONS & U.S. Science and Technology Policy. April 8, 2003 PAF591 - U.S. S&T Policy. Issues. Defining a mission Changing function Role of institutions as long-term planners and catalysts for shifts in public policy. Case Study Institutions. Smithsonian NIH UN Organizations.

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INSTITUTIONS & U.S. Science and Technology Policy

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  1. INSTITUTIONS & U.S. Science and Technology Policy April 8, 2003 PAF591 - U.S. S&T Policy

  2. Issues • Defining a mission • Changing function • Role of institutions as long-term planners and catalysts for shifts in public policy

  3. Case Study Institutions • Smithsonian • NIH • UN Organizations

  4. The Smithsonian • Founded in 1846 for “the increase and diffusion of knowledge among men.” • Mission combines quality scientific research with public outreach through museums and collections. • Uniquely, the Smithsonian is an independent, yet federally funded institution • Can support long-term research programs as staff scientists don’t have to “compete” for funding • Are the scientific programs unique, and is the quality maintained?

  5. National Institutes of Health • Started in 1887, the NIH is the Federal focal point for health research. With a $28 billion dollar budget, its mission is science in pursuit of fundamental knowledge about the nature and behavior of living systems and the application of that knowledge to extend healthy life and reduce the burdens of illness and disability. • Supports area-focused research, with freedom to follow new paths or develop creative, interdisciplinary projects. • Congress set budget on a “doubling” track five years ago with expectations for diseased-based medical advances - is this good policy?

  6. UN Science Programs • Commission on Science and Technology for Development (CSTD), WHO, and UNESCO • These programs are designed to promote and catalyze international cooperation in the field of science and technology, especially for development and health issues. • Have globally defined goals - how do these affect U.S. S&T policy?

  7. Findings • Tension exits between recognizing new opportunites for growth and maintaing the ongoing, traditional investements of the institution • Research institutions have the resources and stability to address larger scientific problems with a multi-disciplinary workforce

  8. Findings (cont.) • These institutions often do not fit within a linear model of basic-then-applied research. • Independent institutions can provide a stable, focused investement in S&T. Their research agendas are not monitored by NSF, isolated universities, or government agencies subject to strong political pressure.

  9. What is the fate of an institution under intense government oversight and political pressure?

  10. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) • Has five science and technology programs: Critical infrastructure Assurance Office (Commerce) Federal Computer Incident Response Center (GSA) National Communications System (Defense) National Infrastructure Protection Center (FBI) Energy Security and Assurance Program (Energy) • Do these science and technology organizations have a clear mission? • How will they respond to the new DHS mission of developing and coordinating a comprehensive national strategy for US domestic security? • Are research and development groups in these organizations prepared to work together, crossing departmental boundaries? • How will they carry out their role as “institutions” within today’s tense security and policy environment?

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