February 15, 2017

The National Science Foundation (NSF) and the Coalition for National Science Funding (CNSF) hosted an event on Capitol Hill on February 15 to highlight the national economic benefits of basic research. The event, entitled “Arc of Science: Research to Results,” highlighted NSF-funded researchers and their economically applicable research products.

The featured research ranged from the discovery of gravitational waves and the origins of the multi-touch screen now used for Apple products, to the creation of environmental sensors that improve city life. One hands-on exhibit showcased live oysters to highlight the effects of ocean acidification and the efforts that NSF-funded research has made to reduce the effects of acidification on the nation’s multi-million dollar oyster industries.

NSF Director, France Córdova, and the Chair and Ranking members of the House Science, Space, and Technology Committee, Reps. Lamar Smith (R-TX-21) and Eddie Bernice Johnson (D-TX-30) made comments about the important role of fundamental research to the U.S. economy. These speakers also highlighted the importance that sustained NSF funding provides to ensure successful U.S. economic competitiveness.

Source: National Science Foundation, Coalition for National Science Funding