The Vital Role of the White House Office of Science and Technology Policy in the New Administration
Abstract
Innovation, a hallmark of 21st century private industry in the United States and around the world, relies on a skilled and diverse workforce as well as advances in science and technology (S and T) made possible by strong public and private investments in research and development (R and D). The influence and products of S and T are present in almost every aspect of daily life. Wise government policies, forward-looking S and T investments, and broadened participation of women and underrepresented minority men and women in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) and related fields will provide jobs and economic opportunity and continue to improve the well-being of individuals at home and abroad. Many existing challenges and unforeseen crises will require an increased understanding of the science behind their causes and rely on new technologies to provide innovative solutions. The next administration will need to address a number of public policy challenges necessitating immediate S and T expertise, including emerging infectious diseases (such as Zika); chronic diseases impacting the future health of our aging population(such as cancer, heart disease, stroke, diabetes, dementia, Alzheimers, and Parkinsons disease);environmental concerns (such as clean water and air quality); food security; and security threats to Americans (including terrorism, cyber-attacks, identity theft, and natural disasters). S and T alone will not solve these problems, but without new scientific knowledge and technological innovation, and sensible government policies, progress will be slow.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Sep 14, 2016
- Accession Number
- AD1022517
Entities
People
- Kenneth M. Evans
- Kirstin R.w Matthews
- Neal F. Lane